Utah State University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Utah State University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and administration.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, access, and inclusion, Utah State University continues its legacy as a premier land- and space-grant institution, fostering innovation and empowering individuals across all backgrounds.

Leadership Roles at Utah State University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Dennis Child
  • Chief Financial Officer - Lynn Janes
  • Chief Financial Officer & Deputy Chief Operating Officer - Mark Kiss
  • Chief Operating Officer - Shannon Clemens
  • Deputy Director of Athletics and Chief Operating Officer - Ike Ukaegbu
  • President - Alfred Smith
  • USU ProSales Co President - Adelle Levanger
  • Chief of Staff - Robert Col
  • IT Chief of Staff - Amy Kitchen
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Jenn Cowburn
  • Dennis Child - Chief Executive Officer

    Dennis Child, the Chief Executive Officer at Utah State University, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional direction. Child guides the university's commitment to excellence, access, and inclusion, ensuring alignment with its land- and space-grant mission. This leadership role involves fostering an environment of innovation and continuous improvement across all academic and administrative functions. Child's executive oversight ensures the university effectively serves its diverse student body and contributes meaningfully to societal advancement. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities encompass long-term institutional planning and resource allocation, solidifying Utah State University's position as a leading educational institution. Dennis Child drives the university's forward momentum, championing its 'A University For All' ethos.

    Lynn Janes - Chief Financial Officer

    Lynn Janes, the Chief Financial Officer at Utah State University, directs all financial planning, management, and reporting activities. Janes oversees the university's fiscal health, ensuring responsible stewardship of financial resources and compliance with all regulatory requirements. This executive position involves developing and implementing financial strategies that support the institution's long-term goals and operational needs. The Chief Financial Officer's purview includes budgeting, accounting, treasury, and financial analysis. Janes's expertise is crucial in navigating the complex financial landscape of a major educational institution. Lynn Janes safeguards the financial integrity of Utah State University, enabling its continued growth and service.

    Mark Kiss - Chief Financial Officer & Deputy Chief Operating Officer

    Mark Kiss, the Chief Financial Officer & Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Utah State University, holds dual responsibility for financial oversight and operational management. Kiss directs the university's financial strategies, ensuring fiscal stability and efficient resource allocation, while also contributing to the optimization of operational processes. This comprehensive role demands expertise in both financial stewardship and operational effectiveness. The Chief Financial Officer & Deputy Chief Operating Officer's purview includes managing budgets, overseeing financial reporting, and enhancing operational workflows across various university functions. Kiss's leadership ensures robust financial health and streamlined operations. Mark Kiss drives financial prudence and operational efficiency at Utah State University.

    Shannon Clemens - Chief Operating Officer

    Shannon Clemens, the Chief Operating Officer at Utah State University, manages the day-to-day operational execution and administrative efficiency. Clemens oversees critical functions that support the university's academic and research endeavors, ensuring seamless delivery of services to students, faculty, and staff. This role involves optimizing resource utilization and implementing best practices across various departments to enhance operational effectiveness. The Chief Operating Officer's focus is on streamlining processes and fostering a culture of operational excellence. Clemens's leadership ensures that the university's infrastructure and support systems robustly facilitate its educational mission. Shannon Clemens drives the operational framework that underpins Utah State University's commitment to access and inclusion.

    Ike Ukaegbu - Deputy Director of Athletics and Chief Operating Officer

    Ike Ukaegbu, the Deputy Director of Athletics and Chief Operating Officer at Utah State University, oversees the operational and financial aspects of the athletics department while contributing to broader university operations. Ukaegbu manages the strategic execution of athletic programs, ensuring fiscal responsibility and operational efficiency within the department. This dual role requires a comprehensive understanding of both athletic administration and university-wide operational management. The Deputy Director of Athletics and Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include budget oversight, resource allocation, and strategic planning for athletic initiatives. Ukaegbu's leadership ensures the success and sustainability of Utah State University's athletic endeavors. Ike Ukaegbu drives operational excellence within athletics and supports the university's overall mission.

    Alfred Smith - President

    Alfred Smith, the President at Utah State University, provides the ultimate leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Smith champions the university's mission of excellence, access, and inclusion, guiding its growth as a land- and space-grant university. This paramount role involves setting the vision, fostering innovation, and ensuring the university's continued impact on society. The President's responsibilities extend to external relations, fundraising, and maintaining the institution's reputation. Smith's leadership is instrumental in navigating the complexities of higher education and advancing the university's objectives. Alfred Smith leads Utah State University with a steadfast commitment to its foundational values and future aspirations.

    Adelle Levanger - USU ProSales Co President

    Adelle Levanger, the USU ProSales Co President at Utah State University, leads the ProSales initiative, focusing on driving sales-related innovation and educational programs. Levanger oversees the strategic development and execution of ProSales activities, ensuring alignment with the university's broader educational and economic development goals. This role involves fostering partnerships and enhancing the practical application of sales knowledge for students and the business community. The USU ProSales Co President's focus is on building robust sales education and professional development opportunities. Levanger's leadership cultivates expertise and drives success in sales-related fields. Adelle Levanger advances Utah State University's commitment to practical, career-focused education through ProSales.

    Robert Col - Chief of Staff

    Robert Col, the Chief of Staff at Utah State University, provides strategic support and facilitates the efficient functioning of the executive leadership team. Col manages key initiatives, coordinates cross-departmental projects, and ensures effective communication across the university. This role involves acting as a key advisor, streamlining operations, and driving the implementation of strategic priorities. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities are broad, encompassing project management, policy development, and operational problem-solving. Col's contribution is vital to maintaining institutional momentum and ensuring that executive directives are translated into actionable outcomes. Robert Col enhances the effectiveness of Utah State University's leadership through dedicated support and coordination.

    Amy Kitchen - IT Chief of Staff

    Amy Kitchen, the IT Chief of Staff at Utah State University, provides strategic leadership and operational coordination within the Information Technology division. Kitchen ensures that IT initiatives align with the university's broader strategic objectives, facilitating seamless technology integration and support. This role involves managing key IT projects, optimizing resource allocation, and enhancing communication between IT departments and other university stakeholders. The IT Chief of Staff's focus is on driving efficiency and effectiveness in technology services. Kitchen's expertise is critical for advancing the university's digital infrastructure and capabilities. Amy Kitchen strengthens Utah State University's technological foundation through strategic IT management.

    Jenn Cowburn - Chief Administrative Officer

    Jenn Cowburn, the Chief Administrative Officer at Utah State University, directs and oversees a wide range of administrative functions essential to the university's operations. Cowburn ensures the efficient management of administrative services, supporting academic and research activities across campus. This executive role involves strategic planning for administrative departments, optimizing resource allocation, and implementing policies that enhance institutional effectiveness. The Chief Administrative Officer's responsibilities encompass areas critical to the smooth functioning of the university. Cowburn's leadership ensures that administrative support systems are robust and responsive to the needs of the university community. Jenn Cowburn drives administrative excellence at Utah State University, supporting its core mission.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Utah State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Utah State University?
    Utah State University is led by Dennis Child (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Lynn Janes (Chief Financial Officer) and Mark Kiss (Chief Financial Officer & Deputy Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Utah State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Utah State University includes leaders such as Dennis Child (Chief Executive Officer), Lynn Janes (Chief Financial Officer), Mark Kiss (Chief Financial Officer & Deputy Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Utah State University have?
    Utah State University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Utah State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Utah State University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Deputy Director of Athletics and Chief Operating Officer.