Virginia Commonwealth University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Virginia Commonwealth University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, operations, marketing, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Virginia Commonwealth University advances knowledge across multiple disciplines through its comprehensive health system and diverse academic programs, impacting research and patient care.

Leadership Roles at Virginia Commonwealth University

  • Chief Executive Officer & Founder - Jaime Flores
  • Chief Executive Officer, The VCU Foundations: The Business Foundation, The Engineering Foundation, and VCU Foundation - Laura Kottkamp
  • President - Carol McCoy
  • President - Allena Flowers
  • President - Hillary Amaniampong
  • President, VCU Blkinfashion - Harmoney Tillerson
  • Chief Information Officer - Alexander Henson
  • Chief of Staff - Karen Helderman
  • Director, Office of the Chief Information Officer - Hannah Steighner
  • Chief Marketing Officer, Sheltering Arms Institute - Kunz Richard
  • Jaime Flores - Chief Executive Officer & Founder

    Jaime Flores, the Chief Executive Officer & Founder at Virginia Commonwealth University, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the institution. Flores architects the long-term growth initiatives, ensuring alignment with VCU's mission to advance knowledge and provide comprehensive health services. This leadership role involves fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across VCU's 11 schools and three colleges, driving research activity, and enhancing the university's global standing. By championing innovation and academic excellence, Jaime Flores cultivates an environment conducive to groundbreaking discoveries and impactful educational experiences. The CEO's focus extends to strengthening partnerships and securing resources essential for VCU's continued development and market leadership in higher education and healthcare.

    Laura Kottkamp - Chief Executive Officer, The VCU Foundations: The Business Foundation, The Engineering Foundation, and VCU Foundation

    Laura Kottkamp, the Chief Executive Officer, The VCU Foundations: The Business Foundation, The Engineering Foundation, and VCU Foundation at Virginia Commonwealth University, leads the strategic financial and operational management of VCU's key foundations. Kottkamp directs fundraising efforts, investment strategies, and resource allocation to support the university's academic and research endeavors. This pivotal role ensures the robust financial health of the foundations, enabling critical investments in faculty, students, and infrastructure. By cultivating donor relationships and optimizing foundation operations, Laura Kottkamp significantly contributes to VCU's capacity for innovation and its mission of advancing knowledge. The CEO's leadership is instrumental in securing the long-term financial stability and growth of VCU.
    Laura Kottkamp

    Carol McCoy - President

    Carol McCoy, the President at Virginia Commonwealth University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for key institutional operations. McCoy oversees critical initiatives aimed at enhancing academic excellence, research output, and community engagement across VCU's diverse academic landscape. This leadership role involves fostering collaboration among schools and departments to achieve institutional goals. By guiding strategic planning and resource management, Carol McCoy ensures VCU effectively advances its mission of education, research, and patient care. The President's focus on operational effectiveness supports VCU's commitment to innovation and its position as a leading public research university.

    Allena Flowers - President

    Allena Flowers, the President at Virginia Commonwealth University, directs significant institutional initiatives and strategic planning efforts. Flowers champions programs designed to elevate VCU's academic standing and research capabilities, ensuring alignment with the university's core mission. This executive position involves overseeing departmental operations and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to drive innovation. By implementing strategic objectives and managing key resources, Allena Flowers enhances VCU's capacity for groundbreaking research and comprehensive educational offerings. The President's leadership contributes to VCU's ongoing development as a premier institution for higher learning and discovery.

    Hillary Amaniampong - President

    Hillary Amaniampong, the President at Virginia Commonwealth University, leads critical strategic operations and institutional development initiatives. Amaniampong focuses on advancing VCU's academic programs and research infrastructure, ensuring the university remains at the forefront of higher education. This role involves overseeing key projects and fostering collaboration across VCU's various schools and colleges. By driving strategic planning and resource optimization, Hillary Amaniampong enhances the university's ability to achieve its educational and research objectives. The President's commitment to operational excellence supports VCU's mission of advancing knowledge and serving the community.

    Harmoney Tillerson - President, VCU Blkinfashion

    Harmoney Tillerson, the President, VCU Blkinfashion at Virginia Commonwealth University, spearheads the strategic direction and operational management of the VCU Blkinfashion initiative. Tillerson directs efforts to promote diversity and inclusion within the fashion industry, aligning with VCU's broader commitment to social equity and innovation. This leadership role involves developing programs, fostering industry partnerships, and enhancing the visibility of VCU's contributions to fashion and design. By cultivating a vibrant and supportive environment, Harmoney Tillerson advances the goals of VCU Blkinfashion and strengthens VCU's impact in creative fields. The President's focus on strategic growth supports VCU's mission of diverse academic and cultural enrichment.

    Alexander Henson - Chief Information Officer

    Alexander Henson, the Chief Information Officer at Virginia Commonwealth University, spearheads the institution's technology strategy and digital infrastructure. Henson oversees the development and implementation of advanced IT solutions that support VCU's extensive research activities, academic programs, and integrated health system. This critical role ensures the security, scalability, and efficiency of all technological operations, enabling seamless data management and communication across departments. By driving digital transformation initiatives, Alexander Henson enhances the learning environment, supports cutting-edge research, and optimizes patient care delivery through robust technological platforms. The CIO's leadership ensures VCU remains at the forefront of technological innovation in higher education and healthcare.
    Alexander Henson

    Karen Helderman - Chief of Staff

    Karen Helderman, the Chief of Staff at Virginia Commonwealth University, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the executive leadership team. Helderman manages key initiatives, facilitates cross-functional collaboration, and ensures the efficient execution of institutional priorities. This role involves coordinating communication, streamlining administrative processes, and advising on critical decision-making to advance VCU's mission. By optimizing operational workflows and fostering strong relationships across VCU's diverse schools and colleges, Karen Helderman enhances the effectiveness of the university's leadership. The Chief of Staff's dedication to operational excellence supports VCU's commitment to research, education, and patient care.

    Hannah Steighner - Director, Office of the Chief Information Officer

    Hannah Steighner, the Director, Office of the Chief Information Officer at Virginia Commonwealth University, supports the strategic direction and operational execution of the IT department. Steighner manages critical projects and initiatives that enhance VCU's technological infrastructure, ensuring alignment with the university's academic and research goals. This position involves coordinating efforts across various IT functions to deliver efficient and secure technology solutions. By facilitating communication and project management within the CIO's office, Hannah Steighner contributes to the seamless operation of VCU's digital ecosystem. The Director's focus on operational efficiency supports the university's commitment to innovation and academic advancement.

    Kunz Richard - Chief Marketing Officer, Sheltering Arms Institute

    Kunz Richard, the Chief Marketing Officer, Sheltering Arms Institute at Virginia Commonwealth University, drives the strategic marketing and brand development initiatives for the institute. Richard oversees the creation and execution of comprehensive marketing campaigns designed to enhance VCU's reputation and reach within the healthcare sector. This leadership position involves analyzing market trends, identifying growth opportunities, and ensuring consistent brand messaging across all platforms. By developing innovative marketing strategies, Kunz Richard strengthens the institute's market presence and supports its mission of providing exceptional patient care and rehabilitation services. The CMO's expertise in brand management is crucial for VCU's continued success in the competitive healthcare landscape.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Virginia Commonwealth University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Virginia Commonwealth University?
    Virginia Commonwealth University is led by Jaime Flores (Chief Executive Officer & Founder), along with executives such as Laura Kottkamp (Chief Executive Officer, The VCU Foundations: The Business Foundation, The Engineering Foundation, and VCU Foundation) and Carol McCoy (President).
    Who is part of Virginia Commonwealth University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Virginia Commonwealth University includes leaders such as Jaime Flores (Chief Executive Officer & Founder), Laura Kottkamp (Chief Executive Officer, The VCU Foundations: The Business Foundation, The Engineering Foundation, and VCU Foundation), Carol McCoy (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Virginia Commonwealth University have?
    Virginia Commonwealth University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Virginia Commonwealth University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Virginia Commonwealth University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer & Founder, Chief Executive Officer, The VCU Foundations: The Business Foundation, The Engineering Foundation, and VCU Foundation, President, President, President.