Tennessee Tech University Executive and Leadership Team

Kristen Pennycuff, the President at Tennessee Tech University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the institution's comprehensive educational and research endeavors. This role involves setting the vision for academic excellence, fostering innovation across STEM disciplines, and guiding the university's growth in liberal arts, agriculture, and nursing programs. Pennycuff champions initiatives that enhance student success, faculty development, and community partnerships, ensuring Tennessee Tech University remains a leader in post-secondary education. The President's oversight extends to institutional advancement, resource management, and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders, including alumni, government officials, and industry partners. By driving strategic planning and operational effectiveness, Kristen Pennycuff ensures the university fulfills its mission of preparing students for impactful careers and contributing to societal progress through knowledge creation and dissemination.

Phillip Oldham, the President at Tennessee Tech University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution of the institution, championing its commitment to STEM education and comprehensive academic offerings. Oldham leads initiatives focused on enhancing research capabilities, expanding program diversity across liberal arts, agriculture, and nursing, and fostering a culture of innovation. This leadership position involves cultivating strong relationships with governmental bodies, industry partners, and the broader community to advance the university's mission and impact. The President ensures the effective allocation of resources, promotes faculty and student success, and guides the institution through evolving educational landscapes. Through strategic oversight and dedicated advocacy, Phillip Oldham drives Tennessee Tech University's continued growth and its role as a vital center for learning and discovery in the region.

Tarek Elbeshbeshy, the IFC President at Tennessee Tech University, leads the Interfraternity Council, representing and guiding the collective interests of fraternity chapters on campus. This leadership role involves promoting the values of brotherhood, academic achievement, and community service among member organizations. Elbeshbeshy works to ensure adherence to university policies and council bylaws, fostering a positive and responsible Greek life environment. The IFC President facilitates communication between fraternity chapters, university administration, and the national fraternity organizations, addressing shared challenges and opportunities. By championing leadership development and upholding high standards, Tarek Elbeshbeshy significantly contributes to the enrichment of the student experience and the overall campus community at Tennessee Tech University.

Namal Abeysooriya, the President at Tennessee Tech University, provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the institution's diverse academic and research programs. This role focuses on advancing the university's mission in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, while also supporting robust offerings in liberal arts, agriculture, and nursing. Abeysooriya drives initiatives to enhance student learning outcomes, foster faculty innovation, and strengthen community and industry partnerships. The President ensures effective resource management and promotes a campus environment that encourages academic excellence and personal growth. Through dedicated leadership, Namal Abeysooriya guides Tennessee Tech University in its commitment to providing high-quality post-secondary education and preparing graduates for impactful contributions to society.

Kristine Craven, the President of Faculty Senate at Tennessee Tech University, serves as the primary representative voice for the university's faculty, advocating for academic integrity and shared governance. This position involves leading faculty discussions on critical academic policies, curriculum development, and institutional priorities, ensuring faculty perspectives inform university-wide decisions. Craven facilitates communication between the faculty and university administration, promoting collaboration and addressing faculty concerns effectively. The President of Faculty Senate plays a vital role in upholding the standards of scholarly inquiry and pedagogical excellence across all disciplines, from STEM to liberal arts. By fostering an environment of open dialogue and constructive engagement, Kristine Craven supports the faculty's essential contributions to Tennessee Tech University's educational mission and research endeavors.

Jennifer Chavez, the Deputy Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Information Technology Infrastructure & Security at Tennessee Tech University, directs the strategic development and operational execution of the university's core IT infrastructure and robust security frameworks. Overseeing critical systems, Chavez ensures the integrity, availability, and confidentiality of all digital assets, supporting the university's extensive STEM and liberal arts programs. This leadership position involves architecting scalable network solutions and implementing advanced cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data and maintain seamless technological operations across campus. Chavez's focus on enterprise-wide IT infrastructure guarantees that faculty, staff, and students have reliable access to essential digital resources, directly enabling the university's mission of providing high-quality post-secondary education. The Deputy Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Information Technology Infrastructure & Security drives technological advancement and operational resilience, ensuring Tennessee Tech University remains at the forefront of educational technology and data security.

Karla Glasgow-Cobb, the Chief Administrative Officer at Tennessee Tech University, oversees the comprehensive administrative functions that support the university's educational and operational objectives. This critical role encompasses the management of essential services, including human resources, finance, facilities, and auxiliary operations, ensuring efficient resource allocation and operational excellence. Glasgow-Cobb drives strategic initiatives aimed at optimizing administrative processes, enhancing employee experience, and maintaining fiscal responsibility across all departments. The Chief Administrative Officer ensures that the university's support structures are robust and responsive, directly contributing to the seamless delivery of academic programs in STEM, liberal arts, and professional fields. By aligning administrative strategies with the university's overarching mission, Karla Glasgow-Cobb fosters an environment conducive to learning, research, and community engagement, solidifying Tennessee Tech University's position as a leading educational institution.

Amanda Mainord, the Chapter Advisor at Tennessee Tech University, provides essential guidance and oversight to student organizations, ensuring their alignment with university policies and fostering leadership development. This role involves mentoring student leaders, supporting chapter operations, and facilitating the successful execution of organizational goals and activities. Mainord's expertise helps cultivate a vibrant campus community, encouraging student engagement in academic, social, and service-oriented initiatives. The Chapter Advisor plays a crucial part in empowering students to develop critical skills in teamwork, communication, and project management, directly contributing to their personal and professional growth. By offering dedicated support and strategic counsel, Amanda Mainord enhances the student experience and reinforces Tennessee Tech University's commitment to holistic development beyond traditional classroom learning.