Virginia Tech Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Virginia Tech has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and governance.

Driven by academic excellence, Virginia Tech is dedicated to fostering innovation and providing comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs, shaping future leaders through rigorous education and impactful research.

Leadership Roles at Virginia Tech

  • Chief Executive Officer - Alan Moscote
  • Chief Financial Officer - Mark Hamric
  • Chief Operating Officer - Jack Kelly
  • President - Elizabeth Wallace
  • G. H. President - Kayley Knackstedt
  • Co President - Riley Novak
  • President - John Gorak
  • Co-President - Thomas Hughes
  • Chief of Staff - Monika Gibson
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Cheryl Peterson
  • Alan Moscote - Chief Executive Officer

    Alan Moscote, the Chief Executive Officer at Virginia Tech, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional direction. Moscote guides the university's long-term planning, ensuring alignment with its mission of academic excellence and research innovation. This leadership role involves fostering key partnerships and driving initiatives that enhance the university's global standing and impact. Moscote oversees the integration of academic programs with emerging industry needs, preparing students for future success. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on cultivating a dynamic learning environment and advancing the university's commitment to discovery and service across all disciplines. Alan Moscote ensures the effective execution of strategic goals across all university divisions, solidifying Virginia Tech's position as a leader in higher education.

    Mark Hamric - Chief Financial Officer

    Mark Hamric, the Chief Financial Officer at Virginia Tech, manages the institution's comprehensive financial operations and fiscal strategy. Hamric oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring the sustainable growth and stability of the university. This critical role involves managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining financial compliance with all regulatory standards. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to developing financial models that support long-term institutional objectives and capital projects. Mark Hamric ensures robust financial oversight, enabling Virginia Tech to invest in cutting-edge research, infrastructure development, and student support services. Hamric's leadership guarantees prudent financial management, supporting the university's academic and research endeavors.

    Jack Kelly - Chief Operating Officer

    Jack Kelly, the Chief Operating Officer at Virginia Tech, oversees the university's extensive operational infrastructure and day-to-day management. Kelly directs facilities, campus services, and administrative functions, ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of support for students, faculty, and staff. This leadership position involves optimizing resource utilization and implementing operational improvements to enhance campus life and academic support. The Chief Operating Officer's focus is on maintaining a safe, functional, and productive environment conducive to learning and research. Jack Kelly drives operational excellence, ensuring that Virginia Tech's physical and administrative resources effectively support its educational mission. Kelly's strategic oversight guarantees the smooth functioning of all non-academic operations.

    Elizabeth Wallace - President

    Elizabeth Wallace, the President at Virginia Tech, provides high-level leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Wallace champions the university's mission, fosters academic and research excellence, and represents Virginia Tech to external stakeholders. This paramount role involves guiding institutional growth, securing resources, and ensuring the university's continued advancement in higher education. The President's oversight encompasses all academic, research, and administrative functions, setting the vision for future development. Elizabeth Wallace drives the strategic agenda, cultivating a culture of innovation and academic rigor. Wallace's leadership ensures Virginia Tech remains at the forefront of educational and scientific discovery.

    Kayley Knackstedt - G. H. President

    Kayley Knackstedt, the G. H. President at Virginia Tech, leads specific initiatives and programs within the university's broader framework. Knackstedt focuses on advancing particular academic or research areas, ensuring their strategic alignment and operational success. This leadership position involves managing dedicated resources and driving progress in designated fields of study or innovation. The G. H. President's responsibilities include fostering collaboration and enhancing the impact of specialized university endeavors. Kayley Knackstedt spearheads targeted advancements, contributing to the comprehensive growth and reputation of Virginia Tech. Knackstedt's efforts support the university's commitment to specialized excellence and impactful research outcomes.

    Riley Novak - Co President

    Riley Novak, the Co President at Virginia Tech, shares leadership responsibilities, contributing to the strategic direction and operational oversight of specific university functions. Novak collaborates with other co-presidents to advance key institutional goals and enhance academic programs. This role involves joint decision-making and shared accountability for driving progress in designated areas. The Co President's focus is on fostering synergy and ensuring cohesive execution of strategic plans. Riley Novak partners in guiding the university's trajectory, supporting initiatives that promote innovation and educational quality. Novak's collaborative leadership strengthens Virginia Tech's capacity to achieve its mission.

    John Gorak - President

    John Gorak, the President at Virginia Tech, provides executive leadership and strategic guidance for the institution's ongoing development. Gorak oversees key aspects of university operations, ensuring alignment with academic excellence and research objectives. This leadership position involves driving initiatives that enhance the student experience and faculty support. The President's responsibilities include fostering a collaborative environment and advancing the university's mission. John Gorak directs strategic efforts to maintain Virginia Tech's standing as a premier educational institution. Gorak's commitment ensures continued progress in academic achievement and research innovation.

    Thomas Hughes - Co-President

    Thomas Hughes, the Co-President at Virginia Tech, collaborates with fellow leaders to shape the university's strategic path and operational execution. Hughes contributes to guiding specific academic or administrative divisions, ensuring their effective contribution to the institution's overall mission. This role involves shared governance and joint responsibility for advancing university objectives. The Co-President's efforts focus on promoting synergy and achieving collective success across designated areas. Thomas Hughes partners in leading Virginia Tech's advancement, supporting initiatives that bolster its academic and research prominence. Hughes's collaborative approach strengthens the university's capacity for impactful outcomes.

    Monika Gibson - Chief of Staff

    Monika Gibson, the Chief of Staff at Virginia Tech, provides strategic support and operational coordination for the executive leadership team. Gibson manages key initiatives, facilitates communication across departments, and ensures the efficient execution of institutional priorities. This role involves streamlining administrative processes and enhancing the effectiveness of leadership decision-making. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include overseeing special projects and acting as a liaison between various university stakeholders. Monika Gibson drives operational efficiency, supporting the Chief Executive Officer and other leaders in achieving strategic objectives. Gibson's efforts ensure seamless operations and effective implementation of university-wide strategies, contributing to Virginia Tech's overall success.

    Cheryl Peterson - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Cheryl Peterson, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Virginia Tech, supports the Chief of Staff in managing critical administrative functions and strategic projects. Peterson assists in coordinating interdepartmental efforts and ensuring the timely completion of key institutional objectives. This role involves facilitating communication and collaboration among various university units to enhance operational synergy. The Deputy Chief of Staff's responsibilities include managing specific projects and providing analytical support to the executive leadership. Cheryl Peterson enhances the capacity of the Chief of Staff's office, contributing to the effective implementation of university strategies. Peterson's work ensures that operational plans are executed efficiently and align with Virginia Tech's broader goals.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Virginia Tech Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Virginia Tech?
    Virginia Tech is led by Alan Moscote (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Mark Hamric (Chief Financial Officer) and Jack Kelly (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Virginia Tech’s executive team?
    The executive team of Virginia Tech includes leaders such as Alan Moscote (Chief Executive Officer), Mark Hamric (Chief Financial Officer), Jack Kelly (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Virginia Tech have?
    Virginia Tech has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Virginia Tech’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Virginia Tech includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, G. H. President.