Saint Louis University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Committed to academic excellence and Jesuit values, Saint Louis University fosters intellectual growth and community service through a rigorous curriculum and extensive research initiatives across the Midwest.

Leadership Roles at Saint Louis University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Phillip Sowa
  • Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - David Heimburger
  • President & S Dean & Advisory Board Student - Elyse Lewandowski
  • President - Stephanie Kaefer
  • President - Bryan Weaver
  • President - Srinitha Ankireddypalle
  • President - Luke Maher
  • Chief Information Officer - Elijah Acuff
  • Chief of Staff - Bridget Fletcher
  • Director Emeritus, Chief Medical Officer - Karen Webb
  • Phillip Sowa - Chief Executive Officer

    Phillip Sowa, the Chief Executive Officer at Saint Louis University, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional growth of this historic academic organization. Overseeing the alignment of academic departments with long-term mission goals, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that the university maintains its status as a premier research institution west of the Mississippi River. Sowa manages complex stakeholder relationships, including interactions with the Board of Trustees and various regional partners, to secure the financial and operational health of the campus. By prioritizing innovation in educational delivery, Sowa drives the expansion of academic programs that meet evolving market demands. This leadership role requires constant evaluation of institutional performance metrics to guarantee that the university remains competitive within the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. Phillip Sowa ultimately secures the future of the institution by balancing tradition with modern administrative efficiency.

    David Heimburger - Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    David Heimburger, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Saint Louis University, oversees the fiscal health and long-term financial planning of the institution. Managing the university's endowment, operating budgets, and capital investments, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources are allocated to support academic programs and research infrastructure. Heimburger collaborates with the Board of Trustees to maintain transparency and fiscal responsibility while navigating the complexities of higher education funding. By implementing rigorous financial controls, David Heimburger drives the sustainability of the university's mission. This leadership role involves analyzing market trends to optimize revenue streams and minimize operational costs across all departments. Through strategic financial oversight, Heimburger secures the necessary capital to fund campus improvements and faculty development, ensuring that the university remains a competitive and stable institution within the broader landscape of American higher education.
    David Heimburger

    Elyse Lewandowski - President & S Dean & Advisory Board Student

    Elyse Lewandowski, the President & S Dean & Advisory Board Student at Saint Louis University, directs student-centered initiatives and academic governance within specific collegiate divisions. Overseeing the integration of student feedback into administrative policy, the President & S Dean & Advisory Board Student ensures that the academic experience aligns with the needs of the modern student body. Lewandowski facilitates dialogue between the student advisory board and faculty leadership to improve curriculum relevance and campus life. By championing inclusive educational practices, Elyse Lewandowski drives the development of programs that prepare students for professional success. This role involves balancing administrative duties with academic advocacy, ensuring that the university remains responsive to the diverse perspectives of the campus community. Through active engagement with student leaders, Lewandowski fosters a collaborative environment that upholds the Jesuit commitment to service and intellectual rigor, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of the student experience.

    Stephanie Kaefer - President

    Stephanie Kaefer, the President at Saint Louis University, leads the strategic development of specific academic departments focused on community outreach and public health initiatives. Overseeing the expansion of regional partnerships, the President ensures that the university's research and service projects address critical societal needs. Kaefer coordinates with faculty to secure grant funding and support for interdisciplinary programs that bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application. By fostering relationships with local organizations, Stephanie Kaefer drives the university's impact on the surrounding community. This leadership role involves managing departmental budgets and ensuring that all academic activities adhere to the high standards of the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. Through the promotion of collaborative research, Kaefer strengthens the university's reputation as a leader in public service and academic innovation, ensuring that the institution continues to fulfill its mission of service.

    Bryan Weaver - President

    Bryan Weaver, the President at Saint Louis University, directs the operational strategy for the university's athletic and extracurricular programs. Overseeing the development of student-athlete support systems, the President ensures that these programs reflect the university's commitment to holistic education and character formation. Weaver manages the coordination between athletic departments and academic advisors to maintain high standards of student performance both on and off the field. By optimizing the use of campus facilities, Bryan Weaver drives the growth of athletic engagement and community spirit. This role involves working closely with the executive team to align extracurricular activities with the broader institutional goals of the university. Through the implementation of effective management practices, Weaver ensures that all athletic operations remain sustainable and contribute positively to the overall student experience, reinforcing the university's dedication to excellence in every facet of campus life.

    Srinitha Ankireddypalle - President

    Srinitha Ankireddypalle, the President at Saint Louis University, manages the strategic initiatives related to international student affairs and global academic partnerships. Overseeing the recruitment and integration of a diverse student population, the President ensures that the university provides a welcoming and supportive environment for scholars from around the world. Ankireddypalle coordinates with global institutions to facilitate exchange programs and collaborative research opportunities that expand the university's reach. By promoting cross-cultural dialogue, Srinitha Ankireddypalle drives the internationalization of the campus curriculum. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory environments and ensuring that all global programs comply with institutional and accreditation standards. Through the development of robust support services, Ankireddypalle enhances the global reputation of the university, ensuring that the institution remains a destination for top-tier talent and continues to foster a truly global perspective within the academic community.

    Luke Maher - President

    Luke Maher, the President at Saint Louis University, directs the strategic planning for the university's alumni relations and development efforts. Overseeing the cultivation of donor relationships, the President ensures that the institution secures the necessary funding to support scholarships and campus infrastructure projects. Maher coordinates with the advancement team to organize events that engage alumni and foster a lifelong connection to the university. By leveraging the university's history and mission, Luke Maher drives the growth of the endowment and philanthropic support. This leadership role involves communicating the university's vision to stakeholders and demonstrating the impact of their contributions on the student experience. Through the implementation of effective engagement strategies, Maher strengthens the university's network of supporters, ensuring that the institution has the resources required to maintain its academic standards and continue its long tradition of excellence in higher education.

    Elijah Acuff - Chief Information Officer

    Elijah Acuff, the Chief Information Officer at Saint Louis University, architects the digital infrastructure necessary to support advanced research and student learning environments. Managing the university's enterprise technology systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures that data security and network reliability remain at the forefront of campus operations. Acuff coordinates with academic deans to integrate cutting-edge software solutions into the classroom, thereby enhancing the educational experience for the entire student body. By overseeing the implementation of scalable cloud platforms, Elijah Acuff drives digital transformation across all administrative departments. This role involves constant collaboration with the executive team to align technological investments with the broader mission of the university. Through the modernization of campus-wide communication tools, Acuff supports the seamless exchange of information, ensuring that the institution maintains its reputation for academic excellence in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

    Bridget Fletcher - Chief of Staff

    Bridget Fletcher, the Chief of Staff at Saint Louis University, manages the daily operational flow and strategic priorities of the executive office. Coordinating communication between the President and various university departments, the Chief of Staff ensures that institutional initiatives receive the necessary resources and attention. Fletcher facilitates high-level meetings, tracks progress on key performance indicators, and resolves complex administrative challenges that arise within the university structure. By streamlining internal processes, Bridget Fletcher drives organizational efficiency and supports the leadership team in executing the long-term mission of the institution. This role requires deep engagement with faculty and staff to maintain alignment with the Jesuit values that define the university. Through meticulous planning and proactive problem-solving, Fletcher ensures that the executive office functions as a cohesive unit, ultimately contributing to the overall stability and success of the academic community.

    Karen Webb - Director Emeritus, Chief Medical Officer

    Karen Webb, the Director Emeritus, Chief Medical Officer at Saint Louis University, oversees the clinical governance and health services provided by the university's medical facilities. Managing the integration of clinical practice with academic research, the Director Emeritus, Chief Medical Officer ensures that students and faculty have access to high-quality healthcare resources. Webb coordinates with medical school leadership to align clinical training programs with the latest advancements in medical science. By implementing evidence-based protocols, Karen Webb drives the improvement of patient care outcomes across the university's health network. This role involves advising the executive team on public health policies and ensuring that all medical operations meet rigorous accreditation standards. Through the oversight of clinical staff and the promotion of interdisciplinary research, Webb strengthens the university's position as a leader in medical education and healthcare delivery, ultimately supporting the institution's commitment to service and excellence.

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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 Phillip Sowa (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as David Heimburger (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Elyse Lewandowski (President & S Dean & Advisory Board Student).
    Who is part of Saint Louis University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Saint Louis University includes leaders such as Phillip Sowa (Chief Executive Officer), David Heimburger (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Elyse Lewandowski (President & S Dean & Advisory Board Student) 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 Chief Executive Officer, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, President & S Dean & Advisory Board Student, President, President.