Radford University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Radford University has 5 executives leading key functions including strategic operations, information technology, academic programming, institutional leadership, and executive transition.

Committed to academic excellence and community advancement, Radford University fosters innovation through diverse undergraduate and graduate curricula while maintaining a strong focus on health-related doctoral research and regional development.

Leadership Roles at Radford University

  • President, Program - Kim Kipling
  • President - Bret Danilowicz
  • President-Elect - Ross Barber
  • Chief of Staff & Vice President, Strategic Operations - Ashley Schumaker
  • Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Danny Kemp
  • Kim Kipling - President, Program

    Kim Kipling, the President, Program at Radford University, designs and evaluates the academic curricula across all undergraduate and graduate disciplines. Overseeing the development of specialized programs like the M.F.A., M.S.W., and Psy.D., the President, Program ensures that educational offerings meet rigorous accreditation standards. This role involves collaborating with faculty to expand the university's reach in health-related professions and other critical fields. By refining the academic portfolio, Kim Kipling directly impacts student success and institutional growth. The President, Program also monitors the effectiveness of existing degree paths to maintain the university's status as a premier doctorate-granting public institution. Through continuous assessment of market needs, Kipling drives the creation of innovative learning opportunities that prepare graduates for professional success. This leadership position requires constant engagement with academic deans to align program outcomes with the university's mission, ultimately strengthening the academic reputation of the institution within the state of Virginia.

    Bret Danilowicz - President

    Bret Danilowicz, the President at Radford University, provides overarching vision and executive leadership for the entire institution. Overseeing the university's strategic direction, the President ensures that all academic and administrative functions support the core mission of providing high-quality education in Virginia. This role involves representing the university to external stakeholders, donors, and the broader public to secure necessary resources for growth. By fostering a culture of academic excellence, Bret Danilowicz directly impacts the university's standing as a doctorate-granting public institution. The President also manages the executive team to ensure that all departments remain focused on student outcomes and research advancement. Through decisive leadership, Danilowicz drives the university's long-term sustainability and community impact. This leadership position requires constant interaction with the Board to navigate complex educational landscapes, ultimately guiding the institution toward its future goals while maintaining the high standards established since the university's founding in 1910.
    Bret Danilowicz

    Ross Barber - President-Elect

    Ross Barber, the President-Elect at Radford University, prepares for the transition of executive leadership by analyzing current institutional operations and strategic priorities. Overseeing the assessment of existing academic and administrative frameworks, the President-Elect ensures a smooth transfer of responsibilities to maintain continuity in university governance. This role involves engaging with faculty, staff, and students to understand the evolving needs of the campus community. By evaluating the university's current market position, Ross Barber directly impacts the planning for future initiatives. The President-Elect also collaborates with the current leadership team to identify opportunities for growth in graduate programs and health-related research. Through careful study of institutional data, Barber drives the development of a forward-looking agenda that aligns with the university's long-standing mission. This leadership position requires constant preparation to assume full executive duties, ultimately ensuring that the institution remains focused on its commitment to academic excellence and regional service.

    Ashley Schumaker - Chief of Staff & Vice President, Strategic Operations

    Ashley Schumaker, the Chief of Staff & Vice President, Strategic Operations at Radford University, directs high-level administrative initiatives and coordinates cross-departmental workflows. Overseeing the integration of institutional goals, the Chief of Staff & Vice President, Strategic Operations ensures alignment between academic departments and executive leadership. This role involves managing complex operational projects that support the university's mission as a doctorate-granting public institution. By optimizing internal processes, Ashley Schumaker directly impacts the efficiency of university-wide programs. The Chief of Staff & Vice President, Strategic Operations also facilitates communication between the President and various campus stakeholders to maintain organizational cohesion. Through rigorous oversight of strategic planning, Schumaker drives the implementation of long-term institutional objectives. This leadership position requires constant collaboration with the Board to refine operational standards across the Virginia campus, ultimately securing the university's reputation for academic rigor and administrative excellence.

    Danny Kemp - Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer

    Danny Kemp, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at Radford University, architects the digital infrastructure supporting over 100 undergraduate fields and specialized doctoral programs. Overseeing cybersecurity protocols and campus-wide network stability, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer ensures seamless access to educational resources for students and faculty. This role involves modernizing data systems to support the university's M.B.A. and health-related research initiatives. By implementing advanced technological solutions, Danny Kemp directly impacts the digital learning environment. The Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer also manages the allocation of technical resources to enhance research capabilities across the institution. Through strategic investment in cloud-based platforms, Kemp drives the digital transformation of administrative and academic services. This leadership position requires constant coordination with other C-suite members to align technology investments with the broader institutional goals of the university, ensuring robust connectivity for the entire campus community.
    Danny Kemp

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Radford University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Radford University?
    Radford University is led by Kim Kipling (President, Program), along with executives such as Bret Danilowicz (President) and Ross Barber (President-Elect).
    Who is part of Radford University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Radford University includes leaders such as Kim Kipling (President, Program), Bret Danilowicz (President), Ross Barber (President-Elect) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Radford University have?
    Radford University has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Radford University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Radford University includes roles such as President, Program, President, President-Elect, Chief of Staff & Vice President, Strategic Operations, Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer.