Trinity University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Trinity University has 10 executives leading key functions including information technology, human resources, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Trinity University fosters a vibrant learning environment dedicated to shaping future leaders through comprehensive liberal arts education and community engagement.

Leadership Roles at Trinity University

  • TUVAC President Executive Coordinator - Ashlyn Gillespie
  • Co-Founder & Co-President - Allison Fortman
  • AAPI Council President - Karenna Edwards
  • Trinity University's Aapi Council Co-Founder & President - Victoria Ni
  • President - Mary Stefl
  • President - Beyza Yildirim
  • President - Richard Elliott
  • Executive Coordinator In the Office of the President - Christal Cooper
  • Chief Information Officer - Benedict Lim
  • Associate Chief Human Resources Officer - Annette Rabago
  • Ashlyn Gillespie - TUVAC President Executive Coordinator

    Ashlyn Gillespie, the TUVAC President Executive Coordinator at Trinity University, provides essential administrative and strategic support to the TUVAC President. Coordinating key initiatives and managing operational workflows, Ashlyn Gillespie ensures the smooth execution of TUVAC's objectives within the broader university framework. This role involves facilitating communication between TUVAC leadership and various university departments, driving project timelines, and organizing critical events. By streamlining administrative processes and maintaining executive-level correspondence, Ashlyn Gillespie directly enhances the efficiency and impact of the TUVAC presidency. Ultimately, Gillespie supports the strategic direction and operational success of TUVAC, contributing to its vital role within Trinity University.

    Allison Fortman - Co-Founder & Co-President

    Allison Fortman, the Co-Founder & Co-President at Trinity University, spearheads strategic vision and organizational development. Leading dual initiatives, Allison Fortman drives the expansion of key programs and fosters collaborative partnerships across campus and with external stakeholders. This leadership role involves defining overarching goals, securing resources, and ensuring the successful implementation of strategic plans. By cultivating a culture of innovation and accountability, Allison Fortman directly influences the university's growth trajectory and its commitment to academic excellence. Ultimately, Fortman shapes the future direction of Trinity University, ensuring its continued relevance and impact in the higher education landscape.

    Karenna Edwards - AAPI Council President

    Karenna Edwards, the AAPI Council President at Trinity University, champions the interests and advancement of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. Leading advocacy efforts and cultural programming, Karenna Edwards fosters an inclusive and supportive environment for students, faculty, and staff. This role involves developing initiatives that promote understanding, address systemic issues, and celebrate AAPI heritage within the university. By collaborating with university administration and student organizations, Karenna Edwards directly enhances the visibility and impact of the AAPI community. Ultimately, Edwards strengthens the fabric of Trinity University by ensuring diverse voices are heard and valued, contributing to a more equitable campus.

    Victoria Ni - Trinity University's Aapi Council Co-Founder & President

    Victoria Ni, the Trinity University's Aapi Council Co-Founder & President at Trinity University, establishes and directs the AAPI Council's strategic objectives. Co-founding this vital organization, Victoria Ni drives initiatives aimed at enhancing the AAPI student experience and promoting cultural awareness across campus. This leadership position involves building community, advocating for policy changes, and organizing impactful events that resonate with the university's diverse population. By fostering collaboration with university leadership and student groups, Victoria Ni directly contributes to a more inclusive and equitable campus environment. Ultimately, Ni solidifies the AAPI Council's role in enriching Trinity University's commitment to diversity and student success.

    Mary Stefl - President

    Mary Stefl, the President at Trinity University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Guiding academic and administrative functions, Mary Stefl ensures the university uphms its mission of academic excellence and community engagement. This critical role involves fostering strong relationships with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and the broader San Antonio community. By championing educational innovation and fiscal responsibility, Mary Stefl directly impacts the university's long-term sustainability and its ability to serve its students effectively. Ultimately, Stefl steers Trinity University toward its goals, upholding its reputation as a distinguished liberal arts institution.

    Beyza Yildirim - President

    Beyza Yildirim, the President at Trinity University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution of key university initiatives. Overseeing multiple departments, Beyza Yildirim ensures alignment with Trinity University's core values and academic objectives. This leadership position involves driving forward critical projects, managing institutional resources, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. By implementing innovative strategies and promoting collaborative efforts, Beyza Yildirim directly enhances the university's academic offerings and student support services. Ultimately, Yildirim plays a pivotal role in advancing Trinity University's mission and strengthening its position within the higher education sector.

    Richard Elliott - President

    Richard Elliott, the President at Trinity University, leads the institution with a focus on academic rigor and strategic growth. Directing all facets of university operations, Richard Elliott ensures the delivery of high-quality liberal arts education and fosters a dynamic campus environment. This executive role involves cultivating partnerships, overseeing financial health, and championing the university's mission to students and stakeholders. By driving institutional development and promoting research excellence, Richard Elliott directly contributes to Trinity University's standing and its impact on society. Ultimately, Elliott guides the university's trajectory, ensuring its continued success and relevance in a changing educational landscape.

    Christal Cooper - Executive Coordinator In the Office of the President

    Christal Cooper, the Executive Coordinator In the Office of the President at Trinity University, provides comprehensive support to the President's executive functions. Managing critical administrative tasks and coordinating high-level communications, Christal Cooper ensures the efficient operation of the President's office. This role involves facilitating meetings, preparing essential documentation, and overseeing project timelines to support strategic institutional goals. By streamlining workflows and maintaining executive-level organization, Christal Cooper directly enhances the President's capacity to lead Trinity University effectively. Ultimately, Cooper plays a vital part in the smooth functioning of the university's highest leadership office, contributing to its overall mission.

    Benedict Lim - Chief Information Officer

    Benedict Lim, the Chief Information Officer at Trinity University, directs all information technology operations and digital infrastructure. Overseeing the university's technological advancements, Benedict Lim ensures robust cybersecurity measures and efficient data management systems are in place to support academic and administrative functions. This leadership role involves architecting scalable IT solutions that enhance the learning experience for students and faculty alike. By optimizing network performance and implementing innovative software, Benedict Lim directly contributes to the university's operational efficiency and its capacity for digital research and collaboration. Ultimately, Lim secures the technological foundation necessary for Trinity University's continued growth and academic innovation.

    Annette Rabago - Associate Chief Human Resources Officer

    Annette Rabago, the Associate Chief Human Resources Officer at Trinity University, manages critical human capital initiatives and employee relations. Overseeing talent acquisition, development, and retention strategies, Annette Rabago ensures a supportive and productive work environment for all university staff and faculty. This leadership position involves developing and implementing comprehensive HR policies that align with Trinity University's mission and values. By fostering professional growth opportunities and managing compensation and benefits programs, Annette Rabago directly impacts employee satisfaction and institutional effectiveness. Ultimately, Rabago strengthens the university's workforce, ensuring it possesses the expertise and dedication required to advance Trinity University's educational objectives.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Trinity University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Trinity University?
    Trinity University is led by Ashlyn Gillespie (TUVAC President Executive Coordinator), along with executives such as Allison Fortman (Co-Founder & Co-President) and Karenna Edwards (AAPI Council President).
    Who is part of Trinity University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Trinity University includes leaders such as Ashlyn Gillespie (TUVAC President Executive Coordinator), Allison Fortman (Co-Founder & Co-President), Karenna Edwards (AAPI Council President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Trinity University have?
    Trinity University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Trinity University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Trinity University includes roles such as TUVAC President Executive Coordinator, Co-Founder & Co-President, AAPI Council President, Trinity University's Aapi Council Co-Founder & President, President.