Wake Forest University Executive and Leadership Team

Dedee Johnston, the Vice President, Sustainability (CSO) and Chief of Staff To the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Wake Forest University, directs the institution's sustainability initiatives and provides critical strategic support to the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Johnston's oversight encompasses the development and implementation of environmental strategies, ensuring alignment with the university's broader operational and financial goals. This dual role demands a comprehensive understanding of both ecological impact and fiscal management, positioning Johnston to drive efficiency and responsible resource allocation across campus operations. The Vice President, Sustainability (CSO) and Chief of Staff To the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer also manages key projects and communications, facilitating seamless collaboration between the financial office and various university departments. Johnston's leadership ensures that sustainability is integrated into the core financial planning and decision-making processes, contributing to Wake Forest University's long-term viability and commitment to environmental stewardship. The strategic guidance provided by Johnston supports the university's mission to advance knowledge and prepare students for impactful careers.

Lindsey Babcock, the Deputy Athletic Director, Chief Operating Officer at Wake Forest University, manages the comprehensive operational framework for the university's athletic department. Babcock's responsibilities include overseeing daily operations, resource allocation, and strategic planning to enhance athletic program performance and student-athlete welfare. This leadership position involves direct supervision of various administrative functions, ensuring efficient execution of departmental objectives. The Deputy Athletic Director, Chief Operating Officer plays a pivotal role in optimizing departmental budgets, managing facilities, and coordinating with external stakeholders to support athletic endeavors. Babcock's strategic insights drive operational improvements, fostering an environment conducive to athletic success and academic achievement for student-athletes. By ensuring robust operational support, Lindsey Babcock enables coaches and staff to focus on training and competition, thereby reinforcing Wake Forest University's commitment to excellence in collegiate athletics. The Chief Operating Officer's influence extends to strategic partnerships and revenue generation, crucial for the sustained growth of the athletic department.

Nancy Galindo, the President at Wake Forest University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Galindo's responsibilities encompass setting the university's overarching mission, guiding academic and research endeavors, and fostering external relationships to advance the university's standing. This paramount leadership role involves making critical decisions that shape the future of Wake Forest University, ensuring its continued excellence and impact. The President oversees all major university functions, including academic affairs, student life, financial management, and external relations. Nancy Galindo's commitment to innovation and academic rigor drives the university's pursuit of knowledge and its dedication to preparing students for leadership roles in a complex world. By championing the university's values and strategic goals, the President ensures Wake Forest University remains at the forefront of higher education. Galindo's leadership is instrumental in navigating the evolving landscape of higher education and securing the university's long-term success.

Elias Leadham, the President's Aide at Wake Forest University, offers direct support to the President in managing daily operations and strategic initiatives. Leadham's role involves coordinating schedules, preparing materials for meetings, and facilitating communication between the President's office and other university departments. This position is crucial for ensuring the efficient functioning of the President's agenda and supporting the execution of key university objectives. The President's Aide assists in project management, conducts research, and handles administrative tasks that enable the President to focus on high-level strategic leadership. Elias Leadham's diligence and organizational skills are vital for maintaining the momentum of the President's priorities and ensuring seamless workflow. By providing comprehensive support, Leadham contributes to the effective governance and advancement of Wake Forest University. The President's Aide plays a key role in operationalizing the President's vision and ensuring timely follow-through on critical tasks.

Christian Langley, the Co-Founder & President at Wake Forest University, shares leadership responsibilities in guiding the institution's strategic direction and operational execution. Langley's role involves collaborating with other leaders to define and advance the university's mission, focusing on innovation and academic distinction. This co-leadership position requires a shared vision for growth and a commitment to fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity and discovery. The Co-Founder & President contributes to key decision-making processes, overseeing specific areas of university operations and development. Christian Langley's entrepreneurial spirit and strategic acumen are vital for navigating the complexities of the higher education sector and driving institutional progress. By working in tandem with other leadership, Langley ensures that Wake Forest University remains responsive to evolving academic needs and societal challenges. The collaborative leadership model championed by Langley aims to enhance the university's impact and reach.

Nathan Whitworth, the Co-President at Wake Forest University, collaborates with fellow leadership to steer the university's strategic path and operational effectiveness. Whitworth's responsibilities include contributing to the formulation of institutional goals and ensuring their alignment with the university's core values and academic mission. This shared leadership role emphasizes collective decision-making and a unified approach to institutional advancement. The Co-President actively participates in overseeing key university initiatives, driving progress in areas critical to academic excellence and student development. Nathan Whitworth's dedication to fostering a dynamic learning environment supports Wake Forest University's commitment to providing a world-class education. Through collaborative efforts, Whitworth helps ensure the university remains adaptable and responsive to the needs of its students and the broader academic community. The Co-President's role is integral to maintaining a cohesive and forward-thinking leadership team.

Benjamin Hobson, the President's Aide at Wake Forest University, provides essential support to the President, facilitating the smooth execution of administrative and strategic tasks. Hobson's duties include managing correspondence, organizing meetings, and assisting with the preparation of reports and presentations that inform key university decisions. This role is critical for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the President's office, ensuring that critical initiatives receive the necessary attention. The President's Aide works closely with various departments to coordinate efforts and gather information, thereby supporting the President's oversight of university operations. Benjamin Hobson's proactive approach and attention to detail are invaluable in managing the President's demanding schedule and priorities. By offering dedicated assistance, Hobson contributes to the strategic advancement and operational integrity of Wake Forest University. The President's Aide ensures that the President has the necessary resources and information to lead effectively.

Sadie Gorley, the Club Pickleball President at Wake Forest University, leads the student organization dedicated to promoting and participating in pickleball. Gorley's responsibilities include organizing team practices, coordinating matches, and managing club membership to foster a vibrant athletic community. This leadership role is focused on enhancing student engagement in recreational sports and promoting a healthy campus lifestyle. The Club Pickleball President oversees the club's budget, plans events, and serves as the primary liaison between the club members and university recreational sports administration. Sadie Gorley's dedication ensures that club members have opportunities to develop their skills, compete, and enjoy the sport of pickleball. By providing effective leadership, Gorley contributes to the diverse extracurricular offerings available to students at Wake Forest University, promoting teamwork and sportsmanship among participants.

Mary Lucal, the Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at Wake Forest University, directs all human capital strategies and initiatives across the institution. Lucal's purview includes talent acquisition, employee development, compensation and benefits, and fostering a positive organizational culture. This executive role is central to supporting the university's academic and research missions by ensuring a skilled and engaged workforce. The Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer collaborates closely with university leadership to align HR policies with strategic objectives, promoting employee well-being and professional growth. Mary Lucal's leadership ensures compliance with labor laws and best practices, while also championing diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the university. By developing innovative HR programs, Lucal enhances employee retention and satisfaction, directly contributing to the overall effectiveness and success of Wake Forest University. The Chief Human Resources Officer's strategic direction is vital for attracting and retaining top talent in the competitive higher education landscape.

Samantha Perrotta, the Chief of Staff & Provost, Office of at Wake Forest University, provides high-level strategic support and operational management for the Provost's office. Perrotta's role involves coordinating academic initiatives, managing key projects, and facilitating communication between the Provost, faculty, and university administration. This position is critical for advancing the university's academic agenda and ensuring the smooth functioning of its educational programs. The Chief of Staff & Provost, Office of works to implement strategic priorities, oversee budget allocations for academic affairs, and support faculty development. Samantha Perrotta's expertise ensures that academic policies are effectively executed and that resources are optimized to support teaching, research, and student success. By streamlining administrative processes and fostering collaboration, Perrotta enhances the effectiveness of academic leadership at Wake Forest University. The strategic coordination provided by the Chief of Staff & Provost, Office of is essential for maintaining the university's commitment to academic excellence and innovation.