Wake Forest University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Wake Forest University has 10 executives leading key functions including finance, student affairs, and organizational leadership.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Wake Forest University fosters a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for impactful careers and engaged citizenship, emphasizing critical thinking and ethical development.

Leadership Roles at Wake Forest University

  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Jacqueline Travisano
  • Cycling Club President - Grant McAllister
  • President - Lila Goldstein
  • WFU President's Aide- Office of the President - Riley Anderson
  • Co-Founder & President - Christian Langley
  • President - Matthew Littrell
  • Co-President - Smiti Kaul
  • President's Aide - Elias Leadham
  • Founder & President - Wendy Wei
  • Ambassador In Admissions - Marianna Branch
  • Jacqueline Travisano - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Jacqueline Travisano, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Wake Forest University, directs the institution's comprehensive financial strategy and operations. This leadership role involves overseeing all fiscal activities, including budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and investment management, ensuring the long-term financial health and sustainability of the university. Travisano's oversight extends to managing endowments, optimizing resource allocation across academic and administrative departments, and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer also plays a critical part in strategic decision-making, providing financial insights that support the university's growth and operational objectives. By maintaining robust financial controls and fostering efficient fiscal practices, Jacqueline Travisano ensures that Wake Forest University can effectively pursue its educational mission and expand its impact within the higher education landscape.
    Jacqueline Travisano

    Grant McAllister - Cycling Club President

    Grant McAllister, the Cycling Club President at Wake Forest University, spearheads the operational and strategic direction of the student-led cycling organization. This role involves coordinating club activities, managing member engagement, and organizing cycling events and training sessions for participants. McAllister ensures the club adheres to university guidelines and promotes a safe and inclusive environment for all members. The Cycling Club President also oversees the club's budget, fundraising efforts, and external partnerships, fostering growth and enhancing the member experience. By championing the club's mission, Grant McAllister cultivates a vibrant community for cycling enthusiasts and contributes to the diverse extracurricular offerings available to students at Wake Forest University.

    Lila Goldstein - President

    Lila Goldstein, the President at Wake Forest University, leads the overarching strategic initiatives and operational management of the student government association. This position requires directing policy development, advocating for student interests, and fostering collaboration among various student organizations and university administration. Goldstein's responsibilities include overseeing the allocation of student funds, managing executive board operations, and representing the student body in high-level discussions. The President ensures the student government effectively serves its constituents by addressing campus-wide issues and promoting student welfare. Through dedicated leadership, Lila Goldstein drives initiatives that enhance the student experience and uphold the values of Wake Forest University.

    Riley Anderson - WFU President's Aide- Office of the President

    Riley Anderson, the WFU President's Aide- Office of the President at Wake Forest University, provides direct support to the university's highest leadership. This role involves managing administrative tasks, coordinating schedules, and facilitating communication between the President's office and other university departments, faculty, staff, and external stakeholders. Anderson assists in preparing materials for meetings, events, and official communications, ensuring operational efficiency and seamless workflow within the President's office. The WFU President's Aide- Office of the President plays a vital role in supporting the strategic objectives and daily functions of the university's leadership. By offering dedicated assistance, Riley Anderson contributes to the effective governance and administration of Wake Forest University.

    Christian Langley - Co-Founder & President

    Christian Langley, the Co-Founder & President at Wake Forest University, initiated and now directs the strategic vision and operational framework for a key student-led initiative. This leadership position involves guiding the organization's growth, establishing its core mission, and fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration among its members. Langley oversees the development of programs and services offered by the organization, ensuring alignment with its founding principles and the broader university objectives. The Co-Founder & President also manages relationships with university stakeholders and external partners, securing resources and support for the initiative's continued success. Through dedicated leadership, Christian Langley drives the impact and reach of this important student enterprise within Wake Forest University.

    Matthew Littrell - President

    Matthew Littrell, the President at Wake Forest University, leads the strategic direction and operational execution for a significant student organization. This role encompasses guiding the organization's mission, managing its executive team, and ensuring the successful implementation of its programs and initiatives. Littrell oversees the allocation of resources, fosters member development, and represents the organization in interactions with university administration and external bodies. The President is responsible for driving the organization's impact and ensuring its continued relevance and effectiveness within the university community. By providing strong leadership, Matthew Littrell advances the goals of the organization and contributes to the vibrant student life at Wake Forest University.

    Smiti Kaul - Co-President

    Smiti Kaul, the Co-President at Wake Forest University, shares leadership responsibilities for a prominent student organization, focusing on collaborative strategic planning and operational oversight. This position involves working closely with the other Co-President to define the organization's objectives, manage its activities, and ensure effective communication with members and university officials. Kaul contributes to the development and execution of programs designed to engage the student body and advance the organization's mission. The Co-President role requires fostering a cohesive team environment and driving initiatives that enhance the student experience. Through shared leadership, Smiti Kaul supports the organization's success and its contribution to the Wake Forest University community.

    Elias Leadham - President's Aide

    Elias Leadham, the President's Aide at Wake Forest University, provides essential administrative and operational support to the university's leadership. This role involves managing correspondence, coordinating meeting logistics, and assisting with the preparation of reports and presentations for the President's office. Leadham ensures the smooth functioning of daily operations by handling various tasks that facilitate effective communication and decision-making. The President's Aide plays a key part in maintaining organizational efficiency and supporting the strategic priorities of the university. By offering dedicated assistance, Elias Leadham contributes to the effective governance and administration of Wake Forest University.

    Wendy Wei - Founder & President

    Wendy Wei, the Founder & President at Wake Forest University, established and now directs a significant student initiative, shaping its core mission and operational structure. This leadership capacity involves guiding the organization's strategic development, fostering a collaborative environment, and overseeing the execution of its programs. Wei is responsible for building key relationships with university faculty, staff, and external partners to secure support and resources for the initiative. The Founder & President ensures the organization effectively serves its intended purpose and contributes positively to the campus community. Through visionary leadership, Wendy Wei drives the impact and sustainability of this important student-led endeavor at Wake Forest University.

    Marianna Branch - Ambassador In Admissions

    Marianna Branch, the Ambassador In Admissions at Wake Forest University, serves as a key liaison between prospective students and the admissions office. This role involves actively engaging with potential applicants, providing detailed information about academic programs, campus life, and the overall university experience. Branch conducts campus tours, participates in recruitment events, and assists in guiding students through the application process, ensuring a welcoming and informative interaction. The Ambassador In Admissions plays a crucial part in shaping the perception of Wake Forest University for prospective students and their families. By effectively communicating the institution's strengths and opportunities, Marianna Branch supports the university's enrollment goals and contributes to attracting a diverse and talented student body.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Wake Forest University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Wake Forest University?
    Wake Forest University is led by Jacqueline Travisano (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Grant McAllister (Cycling Club President) and Lila Goldstein (President).
    Who is part of Wake Forest University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Wake Forest University includes leaders such as Jacqueline Travisano (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Grant McAllister (Cycling Club President), Lila Goldstein (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Wake Forest University have?
    Wake Forest University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Wake Forest University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Wake Forest University includes roles such as Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Cycling Club President, President, WFU President's Aide- Office of the President, Co-Founder & President.