South University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Dedicated to academic excellence and student success, South University provides comprehensive degree programs across multiple colleges, fostering intellectual growth and professional development within its established educational framework.

Leadership Roles at South University

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

    Victor Biebighauser, the President at South University, provides overarching strategic direction and executive leadership for the institution. Biebighauser guides the university's mission to offer comprehensive degree programs, ensuring academic rigor and institutional growth across its diverse colleges, including nursing, health professions, business, theology, and arts and sciences. This executive position involves fostering key relationships with stakeholders, including faculty, students, and external partners, to advance the university's standing and impact. Victor Biebighauser champions initiatives that enhance the student experience and support faculty research and development, crucial for maintaining South University's reputation as a leading non-profit educational provider. The President's responsibilities extend to financial oversight and strategic planning, ensuring the long-term sustainability and operational excellence of the Savannah-headquartered institution. Through decisive leadership, Biebighauser drives the university's commitment to academic innovation and community engagement.

    Matthew Gavlik - Campus President

    Matthew Gavlik, the Campus President at South University, directs the operational and academic functions specific to a designated campus location. Gavlik ensures the seamless delivery of degree programs offered by the university's various colleges, including pharmacy, nursing, health professions, business, theology, and arts and sciences, maintaining high standards of educational quality. This leadership role involves managing campus resources, fostering a positive student and faculty environment, and driving local community engagement. Matthew Gavlik oversees campus-specific strategic initiatives, aiming to enhance student success and institutional reputation within the local context. By coordinating campus operations, Gavlik supports the broader mission of South University, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education aligned with the institution's non-profit objectives. The Campus President's focus remains on optimizing the campus experience and achieving institutional goals through effective local leadership and resource management.

    Gregory Shields - President

    Gregory Shields, the President at South University, provides critical executive leadership and strategic vision for the institution's academic and operational endeavors. Shields guides the university's commitment to offering a wide array of degree programs through its specialized colleges, encompassing pharmacy, nursing and public health, health professions, business, theology, and arts and sciences. This presidential role involves cultivating an environment conducive to learning, research, and professional development, essential for a non-profit educational institution. Gregory Shields spearheads initiatives aimed at enhancing institutional effectiveness and expanding the university's reach and impact within the higher education landscape. The President's oversight ensures that all campus operations and academic offerings align with South University's core mission and values, driving forward its legacy established in 1899. Through strategic decision-making, Shields reinforces the university's dedication to academic excellence and student achievement.

    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 non-profit mission and educational objectives. This leadership role involves cultivating a supportive and productive work environment across all university departments, from the school of pharmacy to the college of arts and sciences. Haines drives initiatives focused on professional development and retention, critical for maintaining the high quality of faculty and staff essential to South University's academic standing. By optimizing HR processes, Lynne Haines ensures the institution attracts and retains top talent, directly supporting its commitment to delivering exceptional educational programs and fostering a robust institutional culture. The scope of this position encompasses strategic workforce planning and the implementation of policies that uphold the university's values and operational integrity.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding South University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads South University?
    South University is led by Victor Biebighauser (President), along with executives such as Matthew Gavlik (Campus President) and Gregory Shields (President).
    Who is part of South University’s executive team?
    The executive team of South University includes leaders such as Victor Biebighauser (President), Matthew Gavlik (Campus President), Gregory Shields (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.