Pittsburg State University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Pittsburg State University has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Pittsburg State University provides comprehensive degree programs across a wide array of disciplines, fostering intellectual growth and preparing students for impactful careers in a dynamic global landscape.

Leadership Roles at Pittsburg State University

  • Interim President - Douglas Ball
  • President - Jeremy Hildebrand
  • President - Thomas Newsom
  • Chief Marketing & Communications Officer - Abigail Fern
  • Douglas Ball - Interim President

    Douglas Ball, the Interim President at Pittsburg State University, directs the university's strategic vision and operational execution during a transitional period. Overseeing all academic and administrative departments, Ball ensures continuity and progress in educational service delivery. This leadership role involves guiding faculty and staff, managing institutional resources, and upholding the university's commitment to providing degree programs in chemistry, journalism, communication, language, mathematics, physics, economics, sociology, political science, arts, engineering, psychology, and criminal justice. Ball's focus remains on maintaining academic standards and fostering a supportive learning environment for students. The Interim President works closely with the Board of Regents and other key stakeholders to navigate the university's future direction, ensuring that Pittsburg State University continues its legacy of educational excellence. Douglas Ball's current responsibilities center on effective leadership and strategic decision-making to advance the institution's mission.

    Jeremy Hildebrand - President

    Jeremy Hildebrand, the President at Pittsburg State University, spearheads the institution's overarching strategic direction and operational management. Hildebrand directs all facets of university operations, from academic program development to financial oversight, ensuring alignment with the university's mission of providing quality educational services. This leadership position involves fostering an environment of academic rigor and innovation across disciplines such as chemistry, journalism, communication, language, mathematics, physics, economics, sociology, political science, arts, engineering, psychology, and criminal justice. Jeremy Hildebrand collaborates with faculty, staff, and external partners to advance research, enhance student success, and expand the university's influence. The President is responsible for securing funding, managing institutional growth, and representing Pittsburg State University to governmental bodies, industry leaders, and the broader community. Hildebrand's executive decisions shape the university's future trajectory and its capacity to serve students effectively. Jeremy Hildebrand's tenure focuses on driving institutional excellence and long-term sustainability.

    Thomas Newsom - President

    Thomas Newsom, the President at Pittsburg State University, leads the institution's strategic vision and operational framework, ensuring the delivery of comprehensive educational services. Newsom directs the university's academic and administrative functions, prioritizing student success and faculty development across a broad spectrum of programs including chemistry, journalism, communication, language, mathematics, physics, economics, sociology, political science, arts, engineering, psychology, and criminal justice. This executive role involves fostering collaborations with industry partners and community stakeholders to enhance the relevance and impact of the university's offerings. Thomas Newsom oversees resource allocation, institutional planning, and the cultivation of a vibrant campus culture. The President is instrumental in advancing the university's research initiatives and expanding its reach within the educational sector. Newsom's leadership ensures that Pittsburg State University remains at the forefront of higher education, adapting to evolving societal needs and technological advancements. Thomas Newsom's commitment is to uphold the university's legacy of academic distinction and prepare graduates for meaningful contributions.
    Thomas Newsom

    Abigail Fern - Chief Marketing & Communications Officer

    Abigail Fern, the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Pittsburg State University, architects and executes comprehensive marketing and communication strategies to enhance the university's brand visibility and reputation. Fern oversees all public relations, digital marketing, advertising, and internal communications initiatives, ensuring consistent messaging across all platforms. This role is critical in promoting the university's diverse degree programs, including those in chemistry, journalism, communication, language, mathematics, physics, economics, sociology, political science, arts, engineering, psychology, and criminal justice. Abigail Fern drives initiatives to attract prospective students, engage alumni, and strengthen community partnerships. By leveraging data analytics and market insights, Fern optimizes campaign performance and identifies new opportunities for growth. The Chief Marketing & Communications Officer collaborates with academic departments and administrative leadership to align communication efforts with institutional goals, thereby amplifying the university's impact and reach. Fern's strategic direction ensures that Pittsburg State University's educational offerings are effectively communicated to target audiences.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Pittsburg State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Pittsburg State University?
    Pittsburg State University is led by Douglas Ball (Interim President), along with executives such as Jeremy Hildebrand (President) and Thomas Newsom (President).
    Who is part of Pittsburg State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Pittsburg State University includes leaders such as Douglas Ball (Interim President), Jeremy Hildebrand (President), Thomas Newsom (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Pittsburg State University have?
    Pittsburg State University has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Pittsburg State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Pittsburg State University includes roles such as Interim President, President, President, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer.