Virginia Commonwealth University Executive and Leadership Team

Laura Kottkamp, the Chief Executive Officer, The Vcu Foundations The Business Foundation, The Engineering Foundation & Vcu Foundation at Virginia Commonwealth University, directs the strategic financial growth and philanthropic initiatives supporting the institution. Kottkamp manages complex endowment portfolios and capital campaigns that fuel research activity and academic expansion across the university. By aligning foundation assets with the broader mission of this R1 Doctoral University, the Chief Executive Officer ensures sustainable funding for the 11 schools and three colleges. This leadership role involves coordinating with university stakeholders to maximize donor engagement and investment returns. Laura Kottkamp maintains rigorous oversight of fiscal governance, ensuring all foundation activities comply with institutional standards. Through these efforts, the Chief Executive Officer strengthens the financial foundation necessary for long-term academic success and community impact within the regional and national research landscape.

Alan Lombardo, the Chief Executive Officer, Sheltering Arms Institute at Virginia Commonwealth University, oversees the integration of advanced clinical care and rehabilitation services within the health system. Lombardo directs the operational strategy for the institute, ensuring that patient care aligns with the research-driven mission of the university. By managing the partnership between the health system and academic departments, the Chief Executive Officer facilitates the translation of medical research into practical patient outcomes. This role requires constant collaboration with clinical leadership to maintain high standards of care across the facility. Alan Lombardo drives initiatives that expand the reach of rehabilitation services, ensuring the institute remains a leader in the field. Through meticulous resource allocation and operational oversight, the Chief Executive Officer secures the institute's position as a premier provider of specialized medical care within the broader university health network.

Gillian Carll, the OB and GYN Small Interest Group Co-President at Virginia Commonwealth University, leads student-driven initiatives focused on women's health and reproductive medicine. Carll directs the organization of educational workshops, clinical shadowing opportunities, and networking events for students interested in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. By fostering connections between students and faculty, the Co-President facilitates professional development and academic exploration within the medical school. This role involves coordinating with the university's health system to provide students with exposure to clinical practices and research. Gillian Carll manages the group's outreach efforts, ensuring that members remain informed about current trends and advancements in the field. Through these leadership activities, the Co-President contributes to the university's mission of training the next generation of healthcare professionals and advancing knowledge in the medical sciences.

Akanksha Kolluru, the President at Virginia Commonwealth University, provides the overarching vision and strategic direction for the institution. Kolluru directs the university's efforts to maintain its status as an R1 Doctoral University, focusing on the expansion of research activity and academic programs. By overseeing the 11 schools and three colleges, the President ensures that the university remains committed to its mission of education, research, and patient care. This role involves engaging with the board, faculty, and community stakeholders to drive institutional growth and innovation. Akanksha Kolluru manages the university's long-term strategy, ensuring that resources are allocated to support the most impactful research and academic initiatives. Through strong leadership and a commitment to excellence, the President guides the university in its pursuit of national prominence and its dedication to serving the community through high-quality education and healthcare.

Karen Helderman, the Chief of Staff at Virginia Commonwealth University, coordinates executive operations and facilitates communication across the university leadership team. Helderman manages the flow of information to the office of the president, ensuring that strategic priorities receive appropriate attention and resources. By streamlining administrative processes, the Chief of Staff enables the university to execute its mission of research and education with greater efficiency. This role involves working closely with various departments to align institutional goals with daily operational activities. Karen Helderman monitors the progress of key initiatives, providing the necessary support to ensure that university objectives remain on track. Through proactive management and organizational oversight, the Chief of Staff maintains the operational integrity of the institution, allowing the university to focus on its core commitment to academic excellence and high-impact research activity.

Barry Parham, the Chief Technology Officer at Virginia Commonwealth University, architects the digital infrastructure required to support a premier R1 research institution. Parham directs the implementation of advanced computing systems and data networks that facilitate high-level research activity across all 11 schools. By overseeing the deployment of cutting-edge technology, the Chief Technology Officer ensures that faculty and students possess the tools necessary for academic innovation. This role involves managing large-scale digital projects that enhance the university's operational capabilities and research output. Barry Parham collaborates with other executive leaders to integrate technology into the university's broader strategic plan. Through the continuous modernization of technical systems, the Chief Technology Officer drives efficiency and supports the university's goal of maintaining a competitive edge in the global research landscape while providing robust digital resources for the entire campus community.

Susan Evans, the Chief Information Officer at Virginia Commonwealth University, manages the university's information systems and data security protocols. Evans directs the strategy for enterprise software and digital platforms that support both academic and administrative functions. By ensuring the integrity and accessibility of institutional data, the Chief Information Officer enables informed decision-making across the university. This role involves overseeing the protection of sensitive research data and student information, maintaining compliance with national standards. Susan Evans works to optimize the digital environment, fostering a culture of innovation and technological reliability. Through the implementation of secure and scalable information systems, the Chief Information Officer supports the university's mission to provide a world-class educational experience. This leadership role remains essential for maintaining the operational continuity of the university's diverse academic and research programs in an increasingly digital world.

Kunz Richard, the Chief Marketing Officer, Sheltering Arms Institute at Virginia Commonwealth University, leads the branding and outreach efforts for the rehabilitation facility. Richard directs the development of marketing campaigns that highlight the institute's specialized clinical services and research-backed patient care. By managing the public image of the institute, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures that the community understands the value of the services provided within the university health system. This role involves analyzing market trends to identify opportunities for growth and patient engagement. Kunz Richard collaborates with clinical leadership to communicate the impact of the institute's work to a broader audience. Through strategic messaging and brand management, the Chief Marketing Officer strengthens the reputation of the institute, ensuring it remains a preferred destination for patients seeking high-quality rehabilitation care within the regional healthcare market.

Hannah Steighner, the Director, Office of the Chief Information Officer at Virginia Commonwealth University, manages the daily operations and project workflows within the information technology division. Steighner coordinates the execution of strategic IT initiatives, ensuring that departmental goals align with the university's broader technological roadmap. By overseeing the administrative functions of the office, the Director facilitates communication between technical teams and university leadership. This role involves monitoring project timelines and resource allocation to ensure the successful delivery of digital services. Hannah Steighner supports the implementation of new software and infrastructure projects that enhance the university's research and educational capabilities. Through effective management and process optimization, the Director ensures that the office of the Chief Information Officer operates efficiently, providing the necessary support for the university's ongoing digital transformation and commitment to academic excellence.

Samantha Brenner, the Chief of Staff - VCU Women's Basketball at Virginia Commonwealth University, manages the administrative and operational logistics for the athletic program. Brenner directs the daily activities of the coaching staff and support personnel, ensuring that the team operates within the standards of the Atlantic 10 Conference. By coordinating travel, scheduling, and compliance requirements, the Chief of Staff enables the program to focus on athletic performance and student-athlete development. This role involves working with university departments to ensure that the basketball program aligns with the institution's academic and athletic goals. Samantha Brenner facilitates communication between the coaching staff and university administration, ensuring that the program receives the necessary resources for success. Through meticulous organization and operational oversight, the Chief of Staff supports the competitive success of the VCU Rams on the national stage.