Tennessee Tech University Executive and Leadership Team

Phillip Oldham, the President at Tennessee Tech University, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional growth of the public university. Oldham oversees the expansion of STEM-focused academic programs and research initiatives that define the institution's market position. By collaborating with the Board and executive leadership, the President ensures alignment between university goals and the evolving needs of the regional workforce. Phillip Oldham manages high-level partnerships with industry leaders to secure funding and internship opportunities for students across diverse fields like engineering, nursing, and business. This leadership role involves driving initiatives that enhance campus infrastructure and student success metrics. Through consistent engagement with faculty and stakeholders, the President maintains the university's reputation for academic rigor and innovation. Oldham secures the long-term financial stability of the institution while fostering an environment conducive to scholarly achievement and community development.

Lisa Zagumny, the President at Tennessee Tech University, focuses on the advancement of liberal arts and educational programs within the university framework. Zagumny directs curriculum development and faculty recruitment to ensure high standards of instruction across the humanities and social sciences. By overseeing academic policy and student support services, the President promotes an inclusive learning environment that complements the university's technical strengths. Lisa Zagumny coordinates with department heads to integrate interdisciplinary studies, bridging the gap between traditional liberal arts and modern professional certifications. This leadership role involves managing academic resources to optimize student retention and graduation rates. Through continuous assessment of educational outcomes, the President drives improvements in teaching methodologies and program accessibility. Zagumny strengthens the university's commitment to a comprehensive education that prepares graduates for diverse career paths in a competitive global landscape.

Kristen Pennycuff, the President at Tennessee Tech University, manages the operational efficiency and administrative alignment of the university's agricultural and nursing departments. Pennycuff directs the allocation of resources to specialized laboratories and clinical training facilities, ensuring students receive hands-on experience in high-demand fields. By overseeing the integration of practical training with theoretical coursework, the President supports the university's mission to provide career-ready graduates. Kristen Pennycuff coordinates with external healthcare partners and agricultural organizations to expand research opportunities and community outreach programs. This leadership role involves streamlining administrative processes to reduce overhead and improve service delivery across campus departments. Through rigorous oversight of departmental budgets and performance metrics, the President maintains the quality of specialized degree programs. Pennycuff drives the strategic development of these essential sectors, ensuring the university remains a leader in applied sciences and professional education.

Namal Abeysooriya, the President at Tennessee Tech University, oversees the expansion of engineering and technology-focused research initiatives. Abeysooriya directs the development of advanced laboratory facilities and fosters collaborations with private sector firms to drive innovation in applied sciences. By managing the university's research portfolio, the President ensures that faculty and students contribute to significant technological advancements. Namal Abeysooriya coordinates with academic deans to align engineering curricula with current industry standards and emerging market trends. This leadership role involves securing grants and private funding to support large-scale research projects that enhance the university's national profile. Through strategic investment in high-tech infrastructure, the President maintains the institution's competitive edge in the STEM sector. Abeysooriya drives the growth of the university's research capabilities, ensuring that academic output translates into tangible solutions for complex engineering challenges.

Jennifer Chavez, the Deputy Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Information Technology Infrastructure & Security at Tennessee Tech University, manages the digital backbone supporting academic and administrative operations. Chavez directs the implementation of robust cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive research data and student records across the campus network. By overseeing the modernization of enterprise systems, the Deputy Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Information Technology Infrastructure & Security ensures high availability for critical learning platforms. Jennifer Chavez coordinates with academic departments to integrate advanced technological tools into the classroom environment, enhancing the overall educational experience. This leadership role involves scaling infrastructure to meet the growing demands of a public university focused on science and technology. Through strategic planning and technical oversight, the Deputy Chief Information Officer, Enterprise Information Technology Infrastructure & Security maintains the integrity of the university's digital assets while supporting the broader mission of academic excellence and institutional growth.

Amanda Mainord, the Chapter Advisor at Tennessee Tech University, directs the development and engagement of student organizations to foster leadership and community involvement. Mainord oversees the governance and operational compliance of student groups, ensuring alignment with university policies and values. By providing mentorship and guidance, the Chapter Advisor supports the personal and professional growth of student leaders across various campus chapters. Amanda Mainord coordinates with the student affairs office to facilitate events and initiatives that enhance the overall campus experience. This leadership role involves managing organizational budgets and promoting inclusive participation in extracurricular activities. Through consistent support and strategic planning, the Chapter Advisor ensures that student organizations remain vibrant and effective contributors to the university culture. Mainord drives the success of these groups by encouraging collaboration and fostering a sense of belonging among the diverse student body.