Radford University Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Committed to academic excellence and student success, Radford University fosters a transformative learning environment through rigorous research, diverse degree offerings, and a dedication to preparing graduates for impactful careers in a global society.

Leadership Roles at Radford University

  • Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer - Robert Hoover
  • President, Program - Kim Kipling
  • President - Bret Danilowicz
  • Chief of Staff & Vice President, Strategic Operations - Ashley Schumaker
  • Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Danny Kemp
  • Robert Hoover - Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer

    Robert Hoover, the Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer at Radford University, directs all fiscal operations and budgetary planning for the institution. Overseeing the allocation of resources across academic departments, the Chief Financial Officer ensures long-term economic stability while supporting the university's mission of providing high-quality education. This leadership role involves managing complex financial portfolios, optimizing operational expenditures, and maintaining compliance with state-level regulatory standards. By implementing robust financial controls, Robert Hoover directly impacts the university's ability to invest in infrastructure and student services. Hoover maintains close collaboration with the Board of Visitors to align fiscal strategies with institutional growth objectives. Through rigorous oversight of administrative functions, the Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary capital to sustain the university's diverse doctoral and undergraduate programs across the Virginia region.

    Kim Kipling - President, Program

    Kim Kipling, the President, Program at Radford University, directs the development and assessment of academic curricula across all undergraduate and graduate fields. Overseeing the expansion of specialized doctoral programs in health-related professions, the President, Program ensures that educational offerings meet rigorous accreditation standards and industry requirements. This leadership role involves evaluating program efficacy, fostering faculty development, and aligning academic pathways with workforce needs. By enhancing the quality of instruction, Kim Kipling directly impacts student retention and career readiness. Kipling works closely with department chairs to innovate teaching methodologies and expand research opportunities. Through the management of academic programming, the President, Program strengthens the university's reputation as a premier institution for advanced study and professional preparation within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

    Bret Danilowicz - President

    Bret Danilowicz, the President at Radford University, provides executive leadership for the entire institution, setting the vision for academic growth and community engagement. Overseeing the university's strategic direction, the President ensures alignment between institutional goals and the needs of the student body. This leadership role involves representing the university to external stakeholders, managing relationships with state government officials, and driving fundraising efforts to support campus development. By championing the university's mission, Bret Danilowicz directly impacts the institution's standing as a leading doctorate-granting public university. Danilowicz facilitates collaboration among the executive team to ensure operational excellence across all departments. Through the oversight of the university, the President secures the resources and partnerships necessary to maintain a high standard of education and research for the entire campus community.
    Bret Danilowicz

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

    Ashley Schumaker, the Chief of Staff & Vice President, Strategic Operations at Radford University, coordinates cross-departmental initiatives to advance institutional priorities. Overseeing the execution of university-wide projects, the Chief of Staff ensures seamless communication between the President and various administrative units. This leadership role involves streamlining internal processes, managing high-level projects, and facilitating the implementation of long-term strategic goals. By fostering collaboration across campus, Ashley Schumaker directly impacts the efficiency of academic and support services. Schumaker monitors key performance indicators to track progress toward institutional milestones. Through the management of strategic operations, the Chief of Staff drives organizational agility, ensuring that the university remains responsive to evolving educational demands and maintains a competitive position within the higher education landscape of the United States.

    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 academic research and administrative functions. Overseeing the deployment of advanced computing systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures secure and reliable access to data for students, faculty, and staff. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols, upgrading campus network capabilities, and integrating innovative educational technologies into the classroom. By modernizing digital resources, Danny Kemp directly impacts the quality of the learning experience and the efficiency of university operations. Kemp collaborates with academic leaders to align technology investments with the university's pedagogical goals. Through the oversight of information technology, the Chief Information Officer maintains the robust digital foundation required for the university to excel in a technology-driven global environment.
    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 Robert Hoover (Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Kim Kipling (President, Program) and Bret Danilowicz (President).
    Who is part of Radford University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Radford University includes leaders such as Robert Hoover (Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer), Kim Kipling (President, Program), Bret Danilowicz (President) 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 Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Financial Officer, President, Program, President, Chief of Staff & Vice President, Strategic Operations, Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer.