Virginia Tech Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Virginia Tech has 10 executives leading key functions including institutional strategy, human resources, information technology, student governance, and athletic development.

Committed to academic excellence and innovation, Virginia Tech empowers students through world-class research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a vibrant campus community that drives global progress.

Leadership Roles at Virginia Tech

  • President, Virginia Technology Class of 2026 Class - Kayla Moten
  • Chapter President - Thaddeus Pajak
  • G. H. President - Kayley Knackstedt
  • Member of Executive Committee and President Virginia Tech Athletic Fund - James Pearman
  • President, American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics - Noah Charness
  • President - Camille Waldron
  • President - David Louden
  • Chief of Staff - Chelsea Lyles
  • Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer - Bryan Garey
  • Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Sharon Pitt
  • Kayla Moten - President, Virginia Technology Class of 2026 Class

    Kayla Moten, the President, Virginia Technology Class of 2026 Class at Virginia Tech, represents the interests of the undergraduate student body to university administration. Facilitating student engagement, the President, Virginia Technology Class of 2026 Class organizes initiatives that enhance the campus experience and foster community spirit. Kayla Moten coordinates with student organizations to promote academic and social development. By advocating for student needs, the President, Virginia Technology Class of 2026 Class ensures that the university remains responsive to the evolving requirements of the student population. Moten leads efforts to increase participation in university events and service projects. This leadership role involves building consensus among diverse student groups to drive positive change. Through active representation, Moten contributes to the vibrant campus culture that defines the university experience, ensuring that the Class of 2026 remains connected to the broader institutional mission.

    Thaddeus Pajak - Chapter President

    Thaddeus Pajak, the Chapter President at Virginia Tech, manages local organizational activities and fosters professional development among members. Overseeing chapter operations, the Chapter President coordinates events that bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application. Thaddeus Pajak drives membership growth and engagement by aligning chapter goals with the university's focus on engineering and technology. By facilitating networking opportunities, the Chapter President connects students with industry leaders and alumni. Pajak ensures that all chapter initiatives adhere to university standards while promoting a culture of innovation and collaboration. This leadership role involves managing resources and planning programs that enhance the educational experience for participants. Through dedicated service, Pajak strengthens the professional network of the university, ensuring that members are well-prepared for future careers in their respective fields of study.

    Kayley Knackstedt - G. H. President

    Kayley Knackstedt, the G. H. President at Virginia Tech, leads specialized organizational efforts focused on student development and community outreach. Directing the activities of the group, the G. H. President ensures that all programs support the university's mission of hands-on learning and academic excellence. Kayley Knackstedt manages internal operations and external partnerships to maximize the impact of the organization. By fostering a collaborative environment, the G. H. President encourages members to engage in interdisciplinary projects that address real-world challenges. Knackstedt oversees the planning and execution of events that promote the university's values of service and innovation. This leadership role requires balancing administrative duties with strategic planning to ensure long-term success. Through effective management, Knackstedt enhances the student experience and contributes to the overall vibrancy of the campus community.

    James Pearman - Member of Executive Committee and President Virginia Tech Athletic Fund

    James Pearman, the Member of Executive Committee and President Virginia Tech Athletic Fund at Virginia Tech, oversees the financial strategies that support the university's athletic programs. Managing fundraising initiatives, the Member of Executive Committee and President Virginia Tech Athletic Fund ensures that resources are available to maintain competitive excellence in sports. James Pearman collaborates with donors and stakeholders to secure the funding necessary for facility upgrades and student-athlete support. By aligning athletic goals with the university's broader mission, the Member of Executive Committee and President Virginia Tech Athletic Fund promotes a culture of integrity and achievement. Pearman monitors financial performance to ensure the sustainability of athletic operations. This leadership role involves strategic planning to enhance the university's reputation through athletic success. Through dedicated financial stewardship, Pearman supports the development of student-athletes and the overall growth of the institution.
    James Pearman

    Noah Charness - President, American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics

    Noah Charness, the President, American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics at Virginia Tech, leads the student chapter in advancing aerospace engineering knowledge and professional development. Overseeing technical projects and industry outreach, the President, American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics fosters a community of innovation among students interested in aviation and space exploration. Noah Charness coordinates workshops and guest lectures that connect members with experts in the field. By managing chapter resources, the President, American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics ensures that students have access to the tools and networks required for success in the aerospace industry. Charness drives initiatives that highlight the university's strength in engineering and technology. This leadership role involves mentoring members and promoting collaborative research efforts. Through active engagement, Charness prepares the next generation of aerospace professionals to contribute to global technological advancements.

    Camille Waldron - President

    Camille Waldron, the President at Virginia Tech, directs organizational strategy for a key student-led initiative focused on academic and professional growth. Managing the daily operations of the organization, the President ensures that all activities align with the university's commitment to hands-on learning. Camille Waldron facilitates collaboration among members to execute projects that address complex problems in their field of study. By fostering a culture of innovation, the President drives the development of new programs that enhance the student experience. Waldron oversees the allocation of resources to support research and community engagement efforts. This leadership role involves representing the organization to university administration and external partners. Through effective management, Waldron ensures that the organization remains a vital part of the campus community, providing students with the skills and experiences necessary for future professional success.

    David Louden - President

    David Louden, the President at Virginia Tech, leads a specialized student organization dedicated to promoting excellence in a specific academic discipline. Overseeing the strategic direction of the group, the President coordinates initiatives that provide members with practical experience and networking opportunities. David Louden manages the planning of events that showcase the university's strengths in research and innovation. By fostering an inclusive environment, the President encourages students to participate in interdisciplinary collaboration. Louden ensures that all organizational activities support the university's mission of academic and professional development. This leadership role involves managing budgets, recruiting members, and maintaining relationships with faculty advisors. Through proactive leadership, Louden enhances the educational experience for participants, ensuring that the organization contributes positively to the university's reputation for excellence and hands-on learning.

    Chelsea Lyles - Chief of Staff

    Chelsea Lyles, the Chief of Staff at Virginia Tech, coordinates high-level administrative operations to ensure alignment with university strategic goals. Managing complex workflows across departments, the Chief of Staff facilitates communication between the executive office and academic leadership. Chelsea Lyles optimizes internal processes to support the research-intensive mission of the institution. By overseeing cross-functional projects, the Chief of Staff maintains operational efficiency across the Blacksburg campus and broader regional initiatives. This role requires constant collaboration with senior leadership to address institutional challenges and advance long-term objectives. Through rigorous oversight of administrative priorities, the Chief of Staff enables the university to maintain its status as a leader in public research and innovation. Lyles ensures that all executive initiatives remain focused on academic excellence and student success.

    Bryan Garey - Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Bryan Garey, the Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at Virginia Tech, directs talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture initiatives. Overseeing human capital strategies, the Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer fosters an environment conducive to academic and professional growth. Bryan Garey implements comprehensive policies that support faculty and staff across the university system. By managing workforce planning and compensation structures, the Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the institution attracts top-tier talent to drive research and teaching excellence. Garey monitors organizational health to maintain high standards of performance and inclusivity. This leadership role involves navigating complex labor landscapes to support the university's mission of innovation. Through strategic human resource management, Garey strengthens the foundation of the campus community and supports the long-term sustainability of the institution.

    Sharon Pitt - Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer

    Sharon Pitt, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at Virginia Tech, architects the digital infrastructure necessary for advanced research and academic collaboration. Managing enterprise-wide technology systems, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer secures data integrity and promotes digital transformation across all campuses. Sharon Pitt oversees the deployment of cutting-edge computing resources that empower faculty and students to push boundaries in science and engineering. By aligning technology investments with institutional goals, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer drives efficiency in administrative and academic workflows. Pitt leads initiatives to modernize network capabilities and cybersecurity protocols to protect the university's intellectual property. Through proactive technology management, Pitt ensures that the institution remains at the forefront of the digital age, supporting the university's commitment to hands-on learning and innovation.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Virginia Tech Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Virginia Tech?
    Virginia Tech is led by Kayla Moten (President, Virginia Technology Class of 2026 Class), along with executives such as Thaddeus Pajak (Chapter President) and Kayley Knackstedt (G. H. President).
    Who is part of Virginia Tech’s executive team?
    The executive team of Virginia Tech includes leaders such as Kayla Moten (President, Virginia Technology Class of 2026 Class), Thaddeus Pajak (Chapter President), Kayley Knackstedt (G. H. President) 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 President, Virginia Technology Class of 2026 Class, Chapter President, G. H. President, Member of Executive Committee and President Virginia Tech Athletic Fund, President, American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics.