Tennessee Tech University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Tennessee Tech University has 8 executives leading key functions including information technology infrastructure, academic administration, student organization leadership, and institutional representation.

Committed to academic excellence in STEM and liberal arts, Tennessee Tech University fosters innovation through comprehensive degree programs and research initiatives that drive regional economic development and student success.

Leadership Roles at Tennessee Tech University

  • President - Lisa Zagumny
  • President - Phillip Oldham
  • President of the Plant Science Club - Lauren Stratton
  • President - Namal Abeysooriya
  • President - Kristen Pennycuff
  • President's Ambassador - Hannah-Grace Boswell
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Information Technology Infrastructure & Security - Jennifer Chavez
  • Chapter Advisor - Amanda Mainord
  • Lisa Zagumny - President

    Lisa Zagumny, the President at Tennessee Tech University, oversees the strategic direction and academic vision for the institution. Guiding the university toward excellence in STEM and liberal arts, the President manages relationships with the Board of Trustees and external stakeholders to secure funding and support for research initiatives. This leadership role involves cultivating partnerships with industry leaders to enhance career readiness for students across all degree programs. By prioritizing faculty development and student engagement, Zagumny drives the university mission forward. The President monitors institutional performance metrics to ensure alignment with state educational goals and regional workforce needs. Through consistent advocacy for academic innovation, the President shapes the future of the campus. Ultimately, Zagumny maintains the high standards of excellence that define the university reputation within the broader academic community.
    Lisa Zagumny

    Phillip Oldham - President

    Phillip Oldham, the President at Tennessee Tech University, architects the long-term growth strategy and institutional policy for the university. Managing the administrative functions and financial health of the institution, the President ensures that resources support the core mission of providing high-quality education in science, technology, engineering, and math. This leadership role involves engaging with state legislators and community partners to expand the university reach and impact. By fostering a culture of research and innovation, Oldham drives the development of new degree programs and certifications. The President coordinates with other executive leaders to maintain operational excellence across all departments. Through strategic planning and effective resource allocation, the President secures the future of the institution. Ultimately, Oldham advances the university standing as a premier public institution dedicated to student success and regional economic prosperity.

    Lauren Stratton - President of the Plant Science Club

    Lauren Stratton, the President of the Plant Science Club at Tennessee Tech University, directs the activities and research outreach for the agricultural science student community. Overseeing the coordination of field studies and educational workshops, the President of the Plant Science Club ensures that members gain practical experience in plant biology and sustainable farming practices. This role involves organizing collaborative projects with the agriculture department to bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world application. By facilitating networking opportunities with industry professionals, Stratton enhances the career prospects for students within the program. The President of the Plant Science Club manages the club budget and event logistics to maximize student participation. Through dedicated leadership, Stratton promotes the importance of agricultural innovation. Ultimately, the President of the Plant Science Club contributes to the university mission by fostering a deep understanding of plant sciences among the student body.

    Namal Abeysooriya - President

    Namal Abeysooriya, the President at Tennessee Tech University, leads the strategic initiatives for specific academic or student-focused divisions within the institution. Overseeing the implementation of specialized programs, the President ensures that departmental goals align with the broader university mission of excellence in education and research. This role involves managing internal resources and coordinating with faculty to improve student outcomes in technical and professional fields. By fostering an environment of inquiry and collaboration, Abeysooriya drives the success of the division. The President monitors performance indicators to ensure that all activities meet the rigorous standards expected of a public university. Through effective communication and leadership, the President supports the professional development of students and staff alike. Ultimately, Abeysooriya strengthens the academic community by championing initiatives that promote innovation and long-term growth for the university.

    Kristen Pennycuff - President

    Kristen Pennycuff, the President at Tennessee Tech University, directs the operational and strategic efforts for specific campus organizations or administrative units. Overseeing the execution of key projects, the President ensures that all initiatives support the university commitment to providing comprehensive education and certifications. This role involves managing team dynamics and coordinating with other campus leaders to streamline processes and improve service delivery. By focusing on efficiency and student engagement, Pennycuff enhances the overall experience for the university community. The President monitors the progress of various programs to ensure they meet the evolving needs of students and faculty. Through proactive leadership, the President fosters a culture of excellence and accountability. Ultimately, Pennycuff contributes to the university success by ensuring that all managed functions align with the core values of academic integrity and institutional growth.

    Hannah-Grace Boswell - President's Ambassador

    Hannah-Grace Boswell, the President's Ambassador at Tennessee Tech University, directs the outreach and representation efforts for the office of the President. Overseeing the communication between the university leadership and prospective students, alumni, and community members, the President's Ambassador ensures that the institutional mission is clearly articulated. This role involves hosting official events and facilitating tours to showcase the university strengths in STEM and liberal arts. By acting as a liaison, Boswell promotes the university brand and values to external audiences. The President's Ambassador coordinates with administrative staff to support high-level functions and institutional ceremonies. Through professional engagement and public speaking, the President's Ambassador enhances the visibility of the university. Ultimately, Boswell supports the strategic goals of the administration by fostering positive relationships and representing the university with distinction in all public-facing activities.

    Jennifer Chavez - Deputy Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Information Technology Infrastructure & Security

    Jennifer Chavez, the Deputy Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Information Technology Infrastructure & Security at Tennessee Tech University, directs the digital architecture and cybersecurity frameworks supporting the entire campus ecosystem. Managing complex network systems, the Deputy Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Information Technology Infrastructure & Security ensures data integrity across all academic and administrative departments. This role involves implementing robust security protocols to protect sensitive research data and student records from evolving cyber threats. By modernizing legacy infrastructure, Chavez optimizes operational efficiency for faculty and staff. The Deputy Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Information Technology Infrastructure & Security collaborates with university leadership to align technological investments with long-term institutional goals. Through proactive system monitoring and strategic upgrades, the department maintains high availability for critical learning platforms. Ultimately, Chavez secures the digital foundation necessary for the university to deliver high-quality education in a technology-driven environment.

    Amanda Mainord - Chapter Advisor

    Amanda Mainord, the Chapter Advisor at Tennessee Tech University, directs the operational guidance and mentorship for student-led organizations. Overseeing the development of leadership skills among members, the Chapter Advisor ensures that all activities align with university policies and educational values. This role involves facilitating communication between student groups and university administration to foster a collaborative campus environment. By providing consistent support for event planning and organizational management, Mainord empowers students to achieve their professional and personal goals. The Chapter Advisor monitors the progress of various initiatives to ensure compliance with institutional standards. Through active engagement with the student body, Mainord promotes a culture of responsibility and academic growth. Ultimately, the Chapter Advisor strengthens the extracurricular landscape, ensuring that student organizations contribute positively to the overall mission of the university.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Tennessee Tech University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Tennessee Tech University?
    Tennessee Tech University is led by Lisa Zagumny (President), along with executives such as Phillip Oldham (President) and Lauren Stratton (President of the Plant Science Club).
    Who is part of Tennessee Tech University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Tennessee Tech University includes leaders such as Lisa Zagumny (President), Phillip Oldham (President), Lauren Stratton (President of the Plant Science Club) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Tennessee Tech University have?
    Tennessee Tech University has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Tennessee Tech University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Tennessee Tech University includes roles such as President, President, President of the Plant Science Club, President, President.