Washington and Lee University Executive and Leadership Team

Aubrey Powers, the Board Game President and Co-Founder at Washington and Lee University, manages student-led recreational initiatives and organizational development within the campus community. Overseeing the strategic planning of social engagement programs, the Board Game President and Co-Founder fosters inclusive environments that encourage peer-to-peer interaction and collaborative problem-solving. This leadership role involves coordinating large-scale events that promote mental well-being and community cohesion among the student body. By facilitating structured social activities, Aubrey Powers strengthens the social fabric of the university, ensuring that extracurricular opportunities remain accessible and engaging. The Board Game President and Co-Founder also works closely with student affairs offices to align recreational programming with broader institutional goals regarding student life. Through dedicated leadership, Powers cultivates a vibrant campus culture, providing essential outlets for creative expression and social connection that complement the rigorous academic experience offered by the university.

Bridget Plank, the Founder & President at Washington and Lee University, architects the vision and strategic direction for specialized student organizations focused on community development. Overseeing the operational framework of these initiatives, the Founder & President ensures that all activities align with the university's commitment to service and leadership. This leadership role involves mentoring student members and managing external partnerships that expand the reach of campus programs. By driving organizational growth, Bridget Plank creates meaningful opportunities for students to apply academic knowledge to real-world challenges. The Founder & President also coordinates with university administration to secure resources and support for ongoing projects. Through consistent advocacy and strategic planning, Plank enhances the impact of student-led initiatives, ensuring that the organization remains a vital contributor to the university's mission of fostering responsible citizenship and active participation in the broader community.

Riley Bryant, the President at Washington and Lee University, directs the overall strategic mission and academic vision of the institution. Overseeing the executive leadership team, the President ensures that all departments remain focused on delivering superior educational services and fostering a culture of intellectual inquiry. This leadership role involves engaging with alumni, donors, and external stakeholders to secure the financial future and global reputation of the university. By championing academic innovation, Riley Bryant drives the development of new programs that meet the evolving needs of students in a competitive higher education market. The President also works closely with the faculty senate to maintain high standards of teaching and research excellence. Through decisive leadership and a commitment to the university's historical values, Bryant guides the institution toward long-term growth, ensuring that the university continues to produce graduates prepared for success in diverse professional fields.

Daniel Volodarsky, the President, Interfraternity Council of W & L (Ifc) at Washington and Lee University, manages the governance and conduct standards for the fraternity system on campus. Overseeing the collaborative efforts of member organizations, the President, Interfraternity Council of W & L (Ifc) ensures that all activities promote safety, inclusivity, and academic success. This leadership role involves mediating disputes, enforcing university policies, and facilitating communication between student leaders and the administration. By fostering a culture of accountability, Daniel Volodarsky strengthens the role of Greek life within the broader university community. The President, Interfraternity Council of W & L (Ifc) also coordinates philanthropic initiatives that benefit local and regional causes, demonstrating the positive impact of student organizations. Through proactive management and consistent engagement, Volodarsky ensures that the fraternity system remains aligned with the core values of the university, contributing to a supportive and responsible campus environment.

Kenneth Ruscio, the Interim President at Washington and Lee University, provides steady leadership and strategic continuity during periods of institutional transition. Overseeing the daily operations of the university, the Interim President maintains focus on academic excellence and administrative stability. This leadership role involves managing key relationships with faculty, staff, and the Board of Trustees to ensure that ongoing initiatives continue to progress without disruption. By fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making, Kenneth Ruscio preserves the institutional culture while preparing the university for future leadership. The Interim President also represents the institution in regional and national academic forums, advocating for the university's unique educational model. Through experienced guidance and a deep understanding of the university's history, Ruscio ensures that the institution remains committed to its mission of providing high-quality educational services, effectively bridging the gap between long-term strategic goals and immediate operational requirements.

Armando Mendez, the Community Organizer - President at Washington and Lee University, directs grassroots initiatives aimed at enhancing student involvement in local civic affairs. Overseeing the coordination of volunteer programs, the Community Organizer - President ensures that student efforts address pressing social needs within the surrounding region. This leadership role involves building partnerships with local non-profits and community leaders to create sustainable service projects. By mobilizing student participation, Armando Mendez fosters a sense of civic responsibility and active citizenship among the student body. The Community Organizer - President also manages the logistics of community outreach events, ensuring that all activities are well-organized and impactful. Through dedicated advocacy and community engagement, Mendez bridges the gap between the university and the local population, demonstrating the institution's commitment to social impact and the practical application of academic learning in real-world settings.

Rachel Arzt, the WLUnite Co-President at Washington and Lee University, manages student-led advocacy efforts focused on campus inclusivity and organizational reform. Overseeing the strategic direction of the group, the WLUnite Co-President ensures that all initiatives promote dialogue and positive change within the university community. This leadership role involves organizing forums, coordinating with student government, and representing the interests of diverse student groups to the administration. By facilitating constructive conversations, Rachel Arzt drives progress on key social issues, ensuring that the university remains a welcoming environment for all students. The WLUnite Co-President also works to build consensus among various campus stakeholders, fostering a culture of mutual respect and understanding. Through persistent advocacy and collaborative leadership, Arzt enhances the student experience, ensuring that the university's commitment to community and inclusivity is reflected in daily campus life and institutional policies.

Mariyyah Daniel, the SPEAK President at Washington and Lee University, directs student-led initiatives focused on mental health awareness and peer support services. Overseeing the development of educational workshops, the SPEAK President ensures that students have access to resources that promote emotional well-being and resilience. This leadership role involves training peer mentors and collaborating with university counseling services to provide comprehensive support networks. By raising awareness about mental health, Mariyyah Daniel reduces stigma and encourages a culture of care across the campus. The SPEAK President also manages outreach campaigns that highlight the importance of self-care and professional support. Through dedicated leadership and a focus on student wellness, Daniel strengthens the support systems available to the student body, ensuring that the university provides a holistic educational experience that prioritizes both academic achievement and the personal health of every student.

David Saacke, the Chief Information Officer at Washington and Lee University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological strategy supporting academic research and administrative operations. Overseeing the integration of advanced computing systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures secure data management across the campus network. This leadership role involves modernizing classroom technology to enhance student learning outcomes while maintaining robust cybersecurity protocols for the entire university ecosystem. By optimizing digital resources, David Saacke facilitates seamless communication between faculty, staff, and the student body. The Chief Information Officer also collaborates with academic departments to implement innovative software solutions that drive efficiency in educational delivery. Through strategic oversight of information systems, Saacke supports the long-term technological advancement of the institution, ensuring that all digital assets remain aligned with the core mission of providing high-quality educational services to the diverse student population.

Maria Feeley, the Chief Legal Officer & General Counsel at Washington and Lee University, manages all legal affairs, regulatory compliance, and risk management strategies for the institution. Overseeing the legal department, the Chief Legal Officer & General Counsel provides critical guidance on governance, contract negotiations, and policy development to ensure adherence to federal and state educational mandates. This leadership role involves protecting the university's interests while supporting academic freedom and institutional integrity. By navigating complex legal landscapes, Maria Feeley mitigates operational risks and facilitates the smooth execution of university initiatives. The Chief Legal Officer & General Counsel also advises the Board of Trustees on matters of institutional liability and strategic planning. Through meticulous oversight of legal frameworks, Feeley safeguards the university's reputation and resources, ensuring that all administrative actions remain consistent with the high standards of excellence and ethical conduct expected of the institution.