South University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

South University has 4 executives leading key functions including human resources, institutional leadership, and campus operations.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, South University provides comprehensive degree programs across multiple colleges, fostering intellectual growth and professional development for its students.

Leadership Roles at South University

  • President - Gregory Shields
  • Campus President - Matthew Gavlik
  • President - Victor Biebighauser
  • HR Vice Chancellor & Chief Human Resources Officer - Lynne Haines
  • Gregory Shields - President

    Gregory Shields, the President at South University, provides overarching strategic direction and institutional leadership. Shields guides the university's mission, vision, and long-term planning, ensuring academic quality and operational excellence across all schools and colleges. This executive position involves fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, essential for adapting to the evolving landscape of higher education. Shields collaborates closely with the Board of Trustees and other senior leaders to advance the university's strategic goals, including program development and market expansion. By championing key initiatives, Gregory Shields drives the institution's commitment to student success and community engagement. The responsibilities extend to financial oversight and resource allocation, ensuring the sustainable growth and impact of South University. This leadership role is pivotal in maintaining the institution's reputation and its contribution to the educational sector.

    Matthew Gavlik - Campus President

    Matthew Gavlik, the Campus President at South University, directs the comprehensive operations and strategic development of the Savannah campus. Gavlik oversees all academic and administrative functions, ensuring the delivery of high-quality educational programs and student support services. This leadership position involves fostering a vibrant campus community and enhancing the student experience. Gavlik works to strengthen relationships with local stakeholders and industry partners, expanding opportunities for students and the university. By implementing strategic initiatives, Matthew Gavlik ensures the campus meets its enrollment, retention, and financial objectives. The role requires close collaboration with university-wide leadership to maintain consistent standards and drive campus-specific growth. This executive's focus is on operational efficiency and the successful execution of the university's mission at the campus level.

    Victor Biebighauser - President

    Victor Biebighauser, the President at South University, provides critical leadership and strategic vision for the institution. Biebighauser champions the university's core mission of delivering accessible and high-quality education across its diverse academic programs. This executive role involves guiding institutional growth, fostering academic innovation, and ensuring operational effectiveness. Biebighauser collaborates with faculty, staff, and external partners to enhance the student learning experience and promote research endeavors. By driving strategic planning, Victor Biebighauser ensures the university remains responsive to the needs of students and the demands of the global marketplace. The responsibilities encompass financial stewardship and the cultivation of a robust institutional culture, supporting the long-term sustainability and impact of South University. This leadership position is fundamental to the university's ongoing success and its commitment to academic excellence.

    Lynne Haines - HR Vice Chancellor & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Lynne Haines, the HR Vice Chancellor & Chief Human Resources Officer at South University, directs all human capital strategies and operational frameworks. Haines oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation, and benefits administration, ensuring alignment with the institution's mission and values. This leadership role involves cultivating a supportive and productive work environment across all academic and administrative departments. Haines drives initiatives focused on professional development and retention, critical for maintaining the high caliber of faculty and staff essential to South University's educational delivery. By optimizing HR processes, Haines ensures operational efficiency and compliance, directly supporting the institution's long-term stability and growth objectives. The scope of this position encompasses strategic workforce planning and the implementation of best practices in human resources management, reinforcing the university's commitment to its people.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding South University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads South University?
    South University is led by Gregory Shields (President), along with executives such as Matthew Gavlik (Campus President) and Victor Biebighauser (President).
    Who is part of South University’s executive team?
    The executive team of South University includes leaders such as Gregory Shields (President), Matthew Gavlik (Campus President), Victor Biebighauser (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does South University have?
    South University has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in South University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of South University includes roles such as President, Campus President, President, HR Vice Chancellor & Chief Human Resources Officer.