Washington and Lee University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Washington and Lee University has 10 executives leading key functions including information technology, student governance, academic community development, and organizational leadership.

Rooted in a long history of academic excellence, Washington and Lee University advances educational services through rigorous intellectual inquiry and a commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive campus environment for all students.

Leadership Roles at Washington and Lee University

  • WLUnite Co-President - Rachel Arzt
  • President, Interfraternity Council of W & L (Ifc) - Daniel Volodarsky
  • President, Engineering Community Development - Leandro Laperne
  • President - Riley Bryant
  • President & Board of Directors - Daniel Einstein
  • SPEAK President - Mariyyah Daniel
  • Board Game President and Co-Founder - Aubrey Powers
  • Founder & President - Bridget Plank
  • Community Organizer - President - Armando Mendez
  • Chief Information Officer - David Saacke
  • Rachel Arzt - WLUnite Co-President

    Rachel Arzt, the WLUnite Co-President at Washington and Lee University, drives student-led initiatives focused on campus unity and community engagement. Arzt coordinates collaborative efforts between diverse student organizations to foster an inclusive environment that reflects the university's core values. By facilitating dialogue and organizing campus-wide events, the WLUnite Co-President strengthens the social fabric of the institution. This leadership role requires constant communication with student representatives to address emerging needs and promote collective well-being. Rachel Arzt manages the strategic planning of outreach programs designed to bridge gaps between different student groups. Through these efforts, Arzt enhances the overall student experience and promotes a culture of mutual respect. The WLUnite Co-President ensures that all activities align with the broader mission of providing exceptional educational services, ultimately contributing to a cohesive and supportive campus atmosphere for every student.

    Daniel Volodarsky - President, Interfraternity Council of W & L (Ifc)

    Daniel Volodarsky, the President, Interfraternity Council of W & L (Ifc) at Washington and Lee University, governs the operations and conduct of member fraternities. Volodarsky enforces institutional policies while promoting academic excellence and community service among the Greek life population. By overseeing council meetings and mediating internal disputes, the President, Interfraternity Council of W & L (Ifc) maintains order and accountability within the fraternity system. This leadership role involves collaborating with university administration to ensure that all social activities align with the educational mission of the institution. Daniel Volodarsky directs programs that emphasize leadership development and responsible citizenship. Through consistent engagement with fraternity leaders, Volodarsky fosters a culture of safety and integrity. The President, Interfraternity Council of W & L (Ifc) supports the university's commitment to providing a structured and enriching environment for students throughout their academic journey.

    Leandro Laperne - President, Engineering Community Development

    Leandro Laperne, the President, Engineering Community Development at Washington and Lee University, architects technical projects that apply engineering principles to real-world challenges. Laperne manages the allocation of resources for student-led design teams and promotes interdisciplinary collaboration across the engineering department. By overseeing the execution of community-focused infrastructure projects, the President, Engineering Community Development ensures that students gain practical experience while serving the public good. This leadership role involves securing partnerships with industry experts to provide mentorship and technical guidance. Leandro Laperne drives the strategic vision for the organization, focusing on sustainable solutions and innovative design methodologies. Through these efforts, Laperne enhances the academic reputation of the university's engineering program. The President, Engineering Community Development supports the institution's mission by bridging the gap between theoretical classroom learning and tangible community impact, preparing students for professional success.

    Riley Bryant - President

    Riley Bryant, the President at Washington and Lee University, oversees the comprehensive strategic direction and administrative operations of the student body. Bryant manages the executive cabinet to ensure that all student-led initiatives align with the university's long-standing commitment to academic excellence. By facilitating communication between the student population and the university administration, the President addresses critical issues affecting campus life. This leadership role involves setting the agenda for student governance and promoting policies that enhance the educational experience. Riley Bryant directs the implementation of programs designed to foster student engagement and personal growth. Through consistent advocacy, Bryant ensures that the student voice remains central to the university's decision-making processes. The President maintains a focus on institutional integrity, supporting the mission of providing high-quality educational services while cultivating a community that values intellectual curiosity and ethical leadership.

    Daniel Einstein - President & Board of Directors

    Daniel Einstein, the President & Board of Directors at Washington and Lee University, executes the overarching strategic vision and governance of the institution. Einstein manages the relationship between the board and the executive leadership team to ensure fiscal responsibility and academic growth. By overseeing long-term planning and institutional policy, the President & Board of Directors maintains the university's competitive position in the higher education market. This leadership role involves evaluating performance metrics and ensuring that all departments adhere to the core mission of providing exceptional educational services. Daniel Einstein directs the development of fundraising strategies and alumni relations to secure the university's financial future. Through these efforts, Einstein upholds the institution's reputation for excellence. The President & Board of Directors ensures that all operational decisions support the university's commitment to fostering an environment of rigorous intellectual inquiry and student success.
    Daniel Einstein

    Mariyyah Daniel - SPEAK President

    Mariyyah Daniel, the SPEAK President at Washington and Lee University, directs advocacy efforts focused on mental health awareness and student wellness. Daniel manages the organization's outreach programs to ensure that students have access to necessary support resources and educational workshops. By overseeing campus-wide campaigns, the SPEAK President promotes a culture of openness and destigmatization regarding mental health challenges. This leadership role involves collaborating with university health services to align student initiatives with professional care standards. Mariyyah Daniel coordinates with other student leaders to integrate wellness programming into the broader campus experience. Through these efforts, Daniel enhances the overall well-being of the student body. The SPEAK President supports the university's mission by ensuring that students receive the emotional and psychological support required to thrive academically and personally within the rigorous educational environment of the institution.

    Aubrey Powers - Board Game President and Co-Founder

    Aubrey Powers, the Board Game President and Co-Founder at Washington and Lee University, manages the operations of the student organization dedicated to strategic gaming and social interaction. Powers coordinates the acquisition of game resources and organizes regular events to foster community among students. By overseeing the membership experience, the Board Game President and Co-Founder ensures that the organization provides a welcoming space for intellectual engagement and relaxation. This leadership role involves managing the budget and planning logistics for large-scale tournaments that attract students from various academic disciplines. Aubrey Powers drives the growth of the organization by promoting the benefits of strategic thinking and collaborative play. Through these efforts, Powers contributes to the vibrant social life of the university. The Board Game President and Co-Founder supports the institution's mission by providing students with opportunities to develop critical thinking skills outside the traditional classroom setting.

    Bridget Plank - Founder & President

    Bridget Plank, the Founder & President at Washington and Lee University, directs the establishment and operational growth of new student-led initiatives. Plank manages the organizational structure and strategic planning required to launch programs that address specific student needs. By overseeing the recruitment of members and the development of project goals, the Founder & President ensures that each initiative contributes positively to the campus community. This leadership role involves navigating university policies to secure funding and institutional support for new ventures. Bridget Plank coordinates with faculty advisors to ensure that all activities remain aligned with the university's educational mission. Through these efforts, Plank fosters a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship among the student body. The Founder & President supports the institution's commitment to providing diverse educational services by creating new platforms for student engagement and leadership development.

    Armando Mendez - Community Organizer - President

    Armando Mendez, the Community Organizer - President at Washington and Lee University, directs grassroots efforts to mobilize students for social and civic engagement. Mendez manages the planning of community service projects and advocacy campaigns that connect the university with the surrounding region. By overseeing the coordination of volunteer activities, the Community Organizer - President ensures that students actively participate in addressing local needs. This leadership role involves building partnerships with community leaders to create sustainable service opportunities. Armando Mendez drives the strategic focus of the organization, emphasizing the importance of civic responsibility and public service. Through these efforts, Mendez enhances the university's impact on the broader community. The Community Organizer - President supports the institution's mission by providing students with practical experiences that reinforce the value of service and leadership in a global society.

    David Saacke - Chief Information Officer

    David Saacke, the Chief Information Officer at Washington and Lee University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological strategy supporting academic operations. Saacke manages the integration of advanced computing systems to enhance research capabilities and administrative efficiency across the campus. By overseeing cybersecurity protocols and network reliability, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless access to digital resources for faculty and students. This leadership role involves modernizing data management practices to align with the university's long-term educational goals. David Saacke coordinates with academic departments to implement software solutions that streamline classroom instruction and remote learning initiatives. Through the deployment of scalable cloud architecture, Saacke supports the institution's mission to provide high-quality educational services. The Chief Information Officer maintains robust technical standards, ensuring that all digital assets remain secure and accessible for the entire university community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Washington and Lee University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Washington and Lee University?
    Washington and Lee University is led by Rachel Arzt (WLUnite Co-President), along with executives such as Daniel Volodarsky (President, Interfraternity Council of W & L (Ifc)) and Leandro Laperne (President, Engineering Community Development).
    Who is part of Washington and Lee University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Washington and Lee University includes leaders such as Rachel Arzt (WLUnite Co-President), Daniel Volodarsky (President, Interfraternity Council of W & L (Ifc)), Leandro Laperne (President, Engineering Community Development) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Washington and Lee University have?
    Washington and Lee University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Washington and Lee University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Washington and Lee University includes roles such as WLUnite Co-President, President, Interfraternity Council of W & L (Ifc), President, Engineering Community Development, President, President & Board of Directors.