Washburn University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Washburn University has 4 executives leading key functions including institutional strategy, information technology, financial management, and executive administration.

Committed to academic excellence, Washburn University fosters student success through a robust public teaching model that serves the Midwest region with high-impact educational programs and community-focused initiatives.

Leadership Roles at Washburn University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Susan Cohen
  • President - Marvin Dale
  • Chief of Staff - Sarah Towle
  • Chief Information Officer - John Haverty
  • Susan Cohen - Chief Financial Officer

    Susan Cohen, the Chief Financial Officer at Washburn University, manages the fiscal health and budgetary planning for the institution. Cohen oversees the allocation of resources to support academic programs, facility maintenance, and student services. The Chief Financial Officer monitors revenue streams and expenditure patterns to ensure long-term financial sustainability for the university. Susan Cohen also directs the audit processes and financial reporting to maintain transparency with stakeholders. By optimizing the budget, the Chief Financial Officer enables the university to invest in growth initiatives that benefit the Midwest student population. This leadership role requires close collaboration with the President to align financial decisions with the core mission. Cohen evaluates economic trends to mitigate risks and identify new funding opportunities. Through disciplined fiscal management, the Chief Financial Officer secures the capital necessary for campus development. Cohen maintains the financial integrity required for the institution to fulfill its public teaching mandate.

    Marvin Dale - President

    Marvin Dale, the President at Washburn University, provides the overarching vision and strategic direction for the entire institution. Dale leads the university in its mission to deliver high-quality education to the Midwest region. The President represents the university to external stakeholders, government officials, and the broader community. Marvin Dale also fosters a culture of academic excellence and student-centered learning across all departments. By setting institutional priorities, the President guides the faculty and staff toward achieving long-term growth and community impact. This leadership role involves navigating complex educational landscapes and advocating for the value of public teaching institutions. Dale collaborates with the Board to ensure that the university remains responsive to changing market demands. Through decisive leadership, the President drives initiatives that enhance the reputation and reach of the campus. Dale maintains a steadfast commitment to the success of every student enrolled at the university.

    Sarah Towle - Chief of Staff

    Sarah Towle, the Chief of Staff at Washburn University, manages high-level administrative operations and coordinates cross-departmental initiatives. Towle facilitates communication between the President and various academic units to ensure alignment with institutional goals. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief of Staff improves organizational efficiency across the campus. Sarah Towle also oversees special projects that support the long-term mission of this public teaching institution. Managing complex workflows requires constant collaboration with the Board and senior leadership. The Chief of Staff maintains rigorous standards for operational excellence while supporting the broader academic community. Through proactive problem-solving, Towle addresses administrative bottlenecks that hinder progress. This leadership role demands precise attention to detail and a deep understanding of university governance. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff drives the internal momentum necessary for the university to thrive within the competitive Midwest higher education landscape.

    John Haverty - Chief Information Officer

    John Haverty, the Chief Information Officer at Washburn University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological strategy for the entire campus. Haverty architected secure network systems that support modern teaching methodologies and administrative data management. The Chief Information Officer oversees cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive student and faculty information across the Midwest region. John Haverty also manages the integration of advanced learning management systems to enhance the student experience. By prioritizing scalable cloud solutions, the Chief Information Officer ensures that the university remains at the forefront of educational technology. This role involves constant coordination with academic departments to align digital resources with pedagogical needs. Haverty evaluates emerging technologies to determine potential benefits for the institution. Through strategic investment in hardware and software, the Chief Information Officer maintains a robust digital environment. Haverty secures the technological foundation required for academic innovation and operational continuity.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Washburn University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Washburn University?
    Washburn University is led by Susan Cohen (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Marvin Dale (President) and Sarah Towle (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Washburn University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Washburn University includes leaders such as Susan Cohen (Chief Financial Officer), Marvin Dale (President), Sarah Towle (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Washburn University have?
    Washburn University has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Washburn University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Washburn University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, President, Chief of Staff, Chief Information Officer.