VCU Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

VCU has 5 executives leading key functions including human resources, operations, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence and research, VCU fosters a dynamic urban learning environment, offering unique programs across its schools and colleges, and impacting the region through its comprehensive health system.

Leadership Roles at VCU

  • President - Eugene Trani
  • Co-President - Benjamin Cassidy
  • President - David Bauer
  • Interim Chief Human Resources Officer - Terri Bunch
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Ishneila Moore
  • Eugene Trani - President

    Eugene Trani, the President at VCU, architects the overarching vision and strategic direction for the university and its integrated health system. Guiding academic innovation, research expansion, and community engagement, Trani ensures VCU maintains its status as a premier urban public research institution. This executive role involves fostering collaborations across VCU's 11 schools and three colleges, promoting interdisciplinary programs unique within Virginia. By championing advancements in sponsored research, Eugene Trani directly fuels the university's national and international rankings. Ultimately, Trani secures the institutional integrity and forward momentum of VCU's educational and healthcare missions.

    Benjamin Cassidy - Co-President

    Benjamin Cassidy, the Co-President at VCU, shares responsibility for driving the strategic and operational leadership of the institution. Collaborating on key decisions, Cassidy focuses on enhancing VCU's academic programs and research output. This executive position involves overseeing specific strategic portfolios, ensuring alignment with the university's core mission and values. By partnering in the development of new initiatives, Benjamin Cassidy directly contributes to VCU's growth and impact. Ultimately, Cassidy supports the sustained excellence and advancement of VCU's educational and research objectives.

    David Bauer - President

    David Bauer, the President at VCU, leads the strategic vision and operational execution for the university and its associated health system. Directing academic excellence and research endeavors, Bauer ensures VCU's continued prominence as a major urban public research university. This critical role involves fostering interdisciplinary learning across VCU's diverse academic units, many offering unique programs statewide. By prioritizing advancements in sponsored research, David Bauer directly elevates VCU's national and international standing. Ultimately, Bauer drives the institutional growth and comprehensive impact of VCU's educational and healthcare services.

    Terri Bunch - Interim Chief Human Resources Officer

    Terri Bunch, the Interim Chief Human Resources Officer at VCU, directs all human capital strategies and operations. Overseeing talent acquisition, employee relations, and compensation and benefits, Bunch ensures alignment with VCU's mission of academic excellence and research innovation. This leadership role involves developing and implementing HR policies that support a diverse and inclusive workforce across the university and its health system. By optimizing workforce development programs, Terri Bunch directly impacts employee engagement and retention. Ultimately, Bunch drives the strategic human resource initiatives essential for VCU's continued growth and operational efficiency.

    Ishneila Moore - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Ishneila Moore, the Deputy Chief of Staff at VCU, supports the strategic execution of university-wide initiatives. Overseeing critical projects and operational workflows, Moore ensures seamless coordination between academic departments and administrative functions. This leadership position involves managing key stakeholder communications and facilitating the implementation of presidential directives. By driving cross-functional collaboration, Ishneila Moore directly enhances the university's operational agility. Ultimately, Moore contributes to the effective governance and strategic advancement of VCU's comprehensive educational and research endeavors.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding VCU Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads VCU?
    VCU is led by Eugene Trani (President), along with executives such as Benjamin Cassidy (Co-President) and David Bauer (President).
    Who is part of VCU’s executive team?
    The executive team of VCU includes leaders such as Eugene Trani (President), Benjamin Cassidy (Co-President), David Bauer (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does VCU have?
    VCU has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in VCU’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of VCU includes roles such as President, Co-President, President, Interim Chief Human Resources Officer, Deputy Chief of Staff.