Saint Louis University Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Saint Louis University has 10 executives leading key functions including administrative operations, information technology, financial management, medical leadership, and student governance.

Committed to academic excellence and Jesuit values, Saint Louis University fosters a transformative educational environment that prepares students for global impact through rigorous research and community engagement.

Leadership Roles at Saint Louis University

  • Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - David Heimburger
  • MD Endowed Chair In Gastroenterology, President - James King
  • President (Slu GSA) - Michael Gibson
  • President - Stephanie Kaefer
  • Co-Founder & President - Aneri Shah
  • President - Luke Maher
  • Chapter President - Andrew Murtha
  • Chief of Staff - Bridget Fletcher
  • Chief Information Officer - Elijah Acuff
  • Director Emeritus, Chief Medical Officer - Karen Webb
  • David Heimburger - Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    David Heimburger, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Saint Louis University, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic strategy of the institution. Heimburger oversees budget allocation, endowment management, and financial reporting to ensure the university maintains a strong capital position. The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer directs the development of sustainable funding models that support academic programs and campus infrastructure. By analyzing market trends and institutional expenditures, Heimburger optimizes resource distribution across all departments. This leadership role involves collaborating with the Board of Trustees to align financial planning with the strategic vision of the university. David Heimburger drives fiscal accountability and transparency, ensuring the university remains competitive in the higher education sector. Through rigorous financial oversight, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary capital to fund research initiatives and student services, ultimately sustaining the mission of the university.
    David Heimburger

    James King - MD Endowed Chair In Gastroenterology, President

    James King, the MD Endowed Chair In Gastroenterology, President at Saint Louis University, leads clinical research and medical education initiatives within the health sciences division. King directs the gastroenterology department, focusing on advanced patient care and innovative medical treatments. The MD Endowed Chair In Gastroenterology, President oversees the integration of clinical practice with academic research, ensuring the university remains at the forefront of medical discovery. By managing specialized medical teams, King drives improvements in diagnostic procedures and therapeutic outcomes. This leadership role involves fostering partnerships with healthcare providers to expand the clinical reach of the university. James King executes strategic goals that enhance the reputation of the medical school. Through the oversight of complex clinical trials and educational programs, the MD Endowed Chair In Gastroenterology, President supports the development of future medical professionals. King maintains a focus on excellence in patient care and scientific advancement.

    Michael Gibson - President (Slu GSA)

    Michael Gibson, the President (Slu GSA) at Saint Louis University, represents the interests of the graduate student body within the university governance structure. Gibson directs advocacy efforts to improve student resources, research funding, and professional development opportunities. The President (Slu GSA) oversees the allocation of student organization budgets and coordinates campus-wide events that foster community among graduate scholars. By facilitating dialogue between the student body and university administration, Gibson ensures that graduate concerns remain a priority in institutional decision-making. This leadership role involves managing committees and promoting policies that enhance the graduate experience. Michael Gibson drives initiatives that support academic success and student well-being. Through active engagement with faculty and staff, the President (Slu GSA) strengthens the connection between the graduate community and the broader university mission. Gibson maintains a focus on creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all graduate students.

    Stephanie Kaefer - President

    Stephanie Kaefer, the President at Saint Louis University, provides executive leadership for specific organizational units focused on community outreach and external partnerships. Kaefer directs the development of programs that connect the university with regional stakeholders and industry leaders. The President oversees the implementation of strategic initiatives designed to increase the visibility and impact of the university in the broader community. By managing external relations and fostering collaborative projects, Kaefer ensures the university remains a vital contributor to regional development. This leadership role involves coordinating with various departments to align outreach efforts with the core mission of the university. Stephanie Kaefer drives the expansion of community-based programs that provide practical experience for students. Through the cultivation of strong professional networks, the President enhances the reputation of the university. Kaefer maintains a focus on building sustainable partnerships that support the long-term growth and societal influence of the institution.

    Aneri Shah - Co-Founder & President

    Aneri Shah, the Co-Founder & President at Saint Louis University, leads specialized entrepreneurial ventures and innovation hubs within the university ecosystem. Shah directs the development of startup incubators and research-to-market programs that support student and faculty innovation. The Co-Founder & President oversees the strategic growth of these initiatives, ensuring they align with the academic and research goals of the university. By managing partnerships with venture capital firms and industry mentors, Shah facilitates the commercialization of new technologies. This leadership role involves creating a supportive environment for innovation and providing the resources necessary for successful project development. Aneri Shah drives the entrepreneurial spirit across the campus, fostering a culture of creativity and problem-solving. Through the oversight of these specialized programs, the Co-Founder & President enhances the practical impact of the university. Shah maintains a focus on building a robust pipeline of innovative projects that contribute to the economic and social vitality of the region.

    Luke Maher - President

    Luke Maher, the President at Saint Louis University, leads specific student-focused organizations dedicated to professional development and career readiness. Maher directs the planning of workshops, networking events, and mentorship programs that prepare students for the workforce. The President oversees the management of organizational resources and ensures that all activities support the professional growth of the student body. By collaborating with career services and alumni networks, Maher facilitates connections between students and industry professionals. This leadership role involves managing team operations and promoting initiatives that enhance student employability. Luke Maher drives the execution of programs that bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice. Through the oversight of these student-led initiatives, the President contributes to the overall success of the university. Maher maintains a focus on providing high-quality opportunities that empower students to achieve their career goals and succeed in their chosen fields.

    Andrew Murtha - Chapter President

    Andrew Murtha, the Chapter President at Saint Louis University, manages the operations and strategic direction of specific academic or professional chapters within the university. Murtha directs the recruitment of members, the organization of educational seminars, and the coordination of service projects. The Chapter President oversees the alignment of chapter activities with the values and mission of the university. By fostering a collaborative environment, Murtha ensures that members have access to valuable resources and networking opportunities. This leadership role involves managing budgets, scheduling events, and representing the chapter in university-wide forums. Andrew Murtha drives the growth and engagement of the chapter, enhancing the student experience through active participation. Through the oversight of these organizational activities, the Chapter President supports the academic and professional development of the membership. Murtha maintains a focus on building a strong, active community that contributes positively to the overall culture of the university.

    Bridget Fletcher - Chief of Staff

    Bridget Fletcher, the Chief of Staff at Saint Louis University, coordinates high-level administrative initiatives across the institution. Fletcher manages internal communications and aligns departmental objectives with the broader mission of the university. By facilitating collaboration between the executive office and academic leadership, the Chief of Staff ensures operational efficiency throughout the campus. Fletcher oversees the implementation of strategic projects that support the long-term growth of the university. This role involves managing complex workflows and providing critical support to the senior leadership team. Through meticulous planning and execution, the Chief of Staff maintains organizational focus on institutional priorities. Bridget Fletcher drives the integration of administrative processes to enhance the overall effectiveness of the university. By streamlining communication channels, the Chief of Staff enables seamless cooperation among diverse academic and administrative units, ultimately strengthening the institutional framework.

    Elijah Acuff - Chief Information Officer

    Elijah Acuff, the Chief Information Officer at Saint Louis University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological strategy for the entire campus. Acuff manages the deployment of secure network systems and advanced data analytics platforms to support academic research and administrative functions. The Chief Information Officer oversees the modernization of campus-wide software solutions, ensuring robust connectivity for students and faculty. By architecting scalable cloud environments, Acuff enables seamless access to digital resources across the university. This leadership role involves mitigating cybersecurity risks while promoting innovation in educational technology. Elijah Acuff drives the digital transformation agenda, aligning technical capabilities with the evolving needs of the university. Through the implementation of cutting-edge hardware and software, the Chief Information Officer optimizes operational performance. Acuff maintains a focus on data integrity and system reliability, providing the essential technological foundation for the university to thrive in a competitive global landscape.

    Karen Webb - Director Emeritus, Chief Medical Officer

    Karen Webb, the Director Emeritus, Chief Medical Officer at Saint Louis University, provides senior clinical oversight and strategic guidance for the university health system. Webb directs the implementation of medical protocols and quality assurance standards to ensure the highest level of patient care. The Director Emeritus, Chief Medical Officer oversees the integration of clinical services with academic training programs, ensuring that medical students receive high-quality instruction. By managing relationships with healthcare partners, Webb drives the expansion of clinical services across the region. This leadership role involves advising the executive team on medical policy and health system operations. Karen Webb executes strategic initiatives that improve patient outcomes and operational efficiency. Through the oversight of complex medical departments, the Director Emeritus, Chief Medical Officer supports the mission of the university to provide excellent healthcare. Webb maintains a focus on clinical excellence and the continuous improvement of medical services provided by the university.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Saint Louis University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Saint Louis University?
    Saint Louis University is led by David Heimburger (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as James King (MD Endowed Chair In Gastroenterology, President) and Michael Gibson (President (Slu GSA)).
    Who is part of Saint Louis University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Saint Louis University includes leaders such as David Heimburger (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), James King (MD Endowed Chair In Gastroenterology, President), Michael Gibson (President (Slu GSA)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Saint Louis University have?
    Saint Louis University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Saint Louis University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Saint Louis University includes roles such as Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, MD Endowed Chair In Gastroenterology, President, President (Slu GSA), President, Co-Founder & President.