The Ohio State University Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

The Ohio State University has 10 executives leading key functions including administrative strategy, information technology, clinical operations, and financial management.

Committed to academic excellence and public service, The Ohio State University advances global research initiatives while fostering a transformative educational environment for students across diverse disciplines and communities.

Leadership Roles at The Ohio State University

  • Chief Executive Officer (Total Health Care Center, FQHC) - Candy Rinehart
  • Administrator and Chief Operating Officer - Joyce Martin
  • Financial Operations Senior Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Financial Operations - Danny Lam
  • President - Kimberly Hullings
  • President-Elect - Polly James
  • Chief of Staff - Quinn Tempel
  • Chief Information Officer - Robert Lowden
  • Interim Chief Information Officer - Michael Veres
  • Interim Vice President and Chief Information Officer - Ginger Breon
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Kelly Crawford
  • Candy Rinehart - Chief Executive Officer (Total Health Care Center, FQHC)

    Candy Rinehart, the Chief Executive Officer (Total Health Care Center, FQHC) at The Ohio State University, leads clinical operations and community health initiatives within the university's healthcare framework. Rinehart manages the delivery of essential medical services to diverse populations, ensuring that the center meets rigorous quality standards and regulatory requirements. By expanding access to care, the Chief Executive Officer (Total Health Care Center, FQHC) strengthens the university's commitment to public health and community wellness. Candy Rinehart coordinates with medical faculty and administrative teams to integrate clinical practice with research and educational goals. This role involves overseeing financial sustainability and operational performance to maximize the impact of health services. Through strategic leadership, Rinehart addresses healthcare disparities and promotes wellness initiatives across the region. The Chief Executive Officer (Total Health Care Center, FQHC) ensures that the center functions as a vital resource, providing high-quality, accessible care while supporting the broader mission of the university.
    Candy Rinehart

    Joyce Martin - Administrator and Chief Operating Officer

    Joyce Martin, the Administrator and Chief Operating Officer at The Ohio State University, directs the internal business operations and organizational management of specific academic or service units. Martin oversees the allocation of physical and human resources to ensure that departments function efficiently and meet their operational targets. By implementing standardized management practices, the Administrator and Chief Operating Officer enhances the productivity of the university's internal teams. Joyce Martin monitors budget performance and operational workflows to identify areas for improvement and cost-saving measures. This role involves coordinating with other executive leaders to align unit-level activities with the university's strategic vision. Through the management of daily administrative tasks, Martin supports the faculty and staff in achieving their research and teaching objectives. The Administrator and Chief Operating Officer drives operational excellence, ensuring that the university's infrastructure and support systems are optimized to facilitate high-quality outcomes across all institutional functions.

    Danny Lam - Financial Operations Senior Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Financial Operations

    Danny Lam, the Financial Operations Senior Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Financial Operations at The Ohio State University, manages the fiscal integrity and operational efficiency of the university's financial departments. Lam oversees the execution of complex financial processes, including reporting, auditing, and resource management. By optimizing financial workflows, the Financial Operations Senior Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Financial Operations ensures that the university maintains strict compliance with fiscal policies and regulatory standards. Danny Lam coordinates with internal stakeholders to provide accurate financial data that informs strategic decision-making at the executive level. This role involves analyzing expenditure patterns and revenue streams to support the long-term financial health of the institution. Through the rigorous management of financial operations, Lam enables the university to allocate resources effectively toward its research and educational priorities. The Financial Operations Senior Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Financial Operations drives fiscal accountability and operational precision across the entire university financial ecosystem.

    Kimberly Hullings - President

    Kimberly Hullings, the President at The Ohio State University, provides the overarching strategic vision and leadership for the entire public research institution. Hullings directs the university's academic, research, and community engagement initiatives to ensure alignment with its mission of excellence and public service. By representing the university to external stakeholders and the broader public, the President shapes the institution's reputation and impact. Kimberly Hullings collaborates with the Board of Trustees and executive leadership to set long-term goals and drive institutional growth. This role involves overseeing the university's financial health, academic quality, and campus culture. Through decisive leadership, Hullings fosters an environment that encourages innovation and supports the success of students and faculty. The President guides the university through complex challenges, ensuring that it remains a leader in higher education and research, while consistently advancing the institution's commitment to serving the public good and fostering academic achievement.

    Polly James - President-Elect

    Polly James, the President-Elect at The Ohio State University, prepares for the transition into the primary leadership role by engaging with current strategic initiatives and institutional priorities. James collaborates with the existing executive team to gain a deep understanding of the university's operational landscape and long-term objectives. By participating in key decision-making processes, the President-Elect ensures a seamless transition and continuity of leadership for the institution. Polly James focuses on building relationships with faculty, staff, and external partners to support the university's mission of research and education. This role involves evaluating current programs and identifying opportunities for future growth and development. Through active involvement in university governance, James prepares to lead the institution toward its future goals. The President-Elect contributes to the strategic planning process, ensuring that the university remains well-positioned to address the evolving needs of its students and the broader community while maintaining its commitment to academic excellence.

    Quinn Tempel - Chief of Staff

    Quinn Tempel, the Chief of Staff at The Ohio State University, manages high-level administrative workflows and coordinates cross-departmental initiatives. Tempel facilitates communication between executive leadership and internal stakeholders to ensure alignment with the broader mission of this public research institution. By streamlining operational processes, the Chief of Staff optimizes resource allocation across the Columbus campus and beyond. Quinn Tempel monitors institutional performance metrics, providing actionable insights that support long-term strategic planning. This role involves navigating complex organizational structures to drive efficiency and maintain institutional standards. Through rigorous oversight of daily operations, the Chief of Staff enables the university to focus on its core objectives of research, teaching, and community engagement. Tempel maintains a focus on operational excellence, ensuring that all administrative functions support the overarching goals of the university while fostering a collaborative environment for faculty and staff members.

    Robert Lowden - Chief Information Officer

    Robert Lowden, the Chief Information Officer at The Ohio State University, directs the digital infrastructure and technology strategy for the entire research enterprise. Lowden oversees the implementation of secure, scalable systems that support academic research, student services, and administrative functions. By modernizing the technological landscape, the Chief Information Officer ensures that the university remains at the forefront of digital innovation. Robert Lowden manages large-scale data initiatives and cybersecurity protocols to protect institutional assets and sensitive information. This leadership role involves collaborating with academic departments to integrate advanced computing solutions into the curriculum and research workflows. Through the deployment of robust IT frameworks, Lowden enhances connectivity and operational agility across the university. The Chief Information Officer drives the digital transformation agenda, ensuring that technology serves as a catalyst for academic success and administrative efficiency within the expansive network of this public research institution.
    Robert Lowden

    Michael Veres - Interim Chief Information Officer

    Michael Veres, the Interim Chief Information Officer at The Ohio State University, manages the continuity of information technology services and supports ongoing digital projects. Veres oversees the maintenance of critical network infrastructure and ensures that technical support teams remain responsive to the needs of students and faculty. By stabilizing IT operations, the Interim Chief Information Officer facilitates seamless access to digital resources across the university. Michael Veres coordinates with various departments to address immediate technological challenges and maintain system integrity. This leadership role involves evaluating current software and hardware deployments to identify opportunities for short-term improvements. Through diligent oversight, Veres ensures that the university's digital environment remains secure and functional during this transition period. The Interim Chief Information Officer supports the broader strategic goals of the institution by providing reliable technology services that underpin academic and administrative activities, ensuring that all users have the tools necessary for success.

    Ginger Breon - Interim Vice President and Chief Information Officer

    Ginger Breon, the Interim Vice President and Chief Information Officer at The Ohio State University, leads the strategic direction of the university's information technology division during this interim period. Breon oversees the development of long-term technology roadmaps and ensures that current IT initiatives align with the university's academic and research goals. By managing the IT leadership team, the Interim Vice President and Chief Information Officer fosters a culture of innovation and service excellence. Ginger Breon coordinates with university leadership to address complex technological needs and prioritize investments in digital infrastructure. This role involves overseeing the security and reliability of university-wide systems to support a diverse user base. Through proactive management, Breon ensures that the institution's technology environment remains robust and adaptable to changing academic requirements. The Interim Vice President and Chief Information Officer provides steady leadership, ensuring that the university continues to leverage technology effectively to advance its mission of research and education.

    Kelly Crawford - Chief Administrative Officer

    Kelly Crawford, the Chief Administrative Officer at The Ohio State University, directs the administrative functions that support the university's daily operations and long-term strategic goals. Crawford oversees the management of facilities, human resources, and internal support services to ensure a cohesive and efficient working environment. By streamlining administrative processes, the Chief Administrative Officer enhances the university's ability to serve its students and faculty effectively. Kelly Crawford coordinates with other executive leaders to implement policies that promote institutional growth and operational stability. This role involves managing large-scale administrative projects and ensuring that all departments adhere to university standards. Through the oversight of essential support services, Crawford enables the university to focus on its core mission of research and public service. The Chief Administrative Officer drives organizational efficiency, ensuring that the administrative infrastructure is well-aligned with the needs of the university's diverse and expansive community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding The Ohio State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads The Ohio State University?
    The Ohio State University is led by Candy Rinehart (Chief Executive Officer (Total Health Care Center, FQHC)), along with executives such as Joyce Martin (Administrator and Chief Operating Officer) and Danny Lam (Financial Operations Senior Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Financial Operations).
    Who is part of The Ohio State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of The Ohio State University includes leaders such as Candy Rinehart (Chief Executive Officer (Total Health Care Center, FQHC)), Joyce Martin (Administrator and Chief Operating Officer), Danny Lam (Financial Operations Senior Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Financial Operations) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does The Ohio State University have?
    The Ohio State University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in The Ohio State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of The Ohio State University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer (Total Health Care Center, FQHC), Administrator and Chief Operating Officer, Financial Operations Senior Coordinator & Chief Operating Officer, Financial Operations, President, President-Elect.