West Virginia University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

West Virginia University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, information technology, human resources, and student organization management.

Committed to academic excellence and research innovation, West Virginia University advances public land-grant education through a mission focused on student success, community engagement, and transformative discovery across the Appalachian region.

Leadership Roles at West Virginia University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Michelle Bergeron
  • Chief Financial Officer - Rachel Jones
  • Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Christopher Kabourek
  • WVU Women's Lacrosse President - Emma Zaleski
  • President of the Residence Hall Association - Camryn Morgan
  • President, Association For Women In Sports Media - Payton Ogden
  • President of WVU Water Ski Team - Megan Grudell
  • Chief Information Officer - Sidney Morrison
  • Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer - Mario Barge
  • Chief of Staff - Clinical and Translational Science - Stephanie Conrad
  • Michelle Bergeron - Chief Executive Officer

    Michelle Bergeron, the Chief Executive Officer at West Virginia University, directs the overarching strategic vision for this public research institution. Bergeron architects long-term academic goals while managing complex relationships with state stakeholders and the Board of Governors. By aligning institutional resources with the land-grant mission, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that research initiatives remain competitive on a national scale. Bergeron oversees the integration of diverse departments to foster a culture of innovation and student-centered learning. This leadership role requires constant evaluation of market trends within higher education to maintain the university's reputation for excellence. Through rigorous oversight of administrative operations, Michelle Bergeron drives the university toward sustainable growth. Ultimately, Bergeron secures the future of the institution by championing initiatives that expand access to quality education for students across the state and beyond.

    Rachel Jones - Chief Financial Officer

    Rachel Jones, the Chief Financial Officer at West Virginia University, manages the fiscal health and budgetary integrity of the entire research enterprise. Jones architects comprehensive financial strategies that support academic programs and capital infrastructure projects. By monitoring revenue streams and expenditure patterns, the Chief Financial Officer ensures compliance with state and federal regulations. Jones collaborates with department heads to optimize resource allocation, thereby maximizing the impact of public funding. This role involves mitigating financial risks while identifying opportunities for investment in emerging research fields. Rachel Jones maintains transparency in all fiscal reporting, providing the Board with accurate data for informed decision-making. Through disciplined management of the university's endowment and operational budgets, Jones strengthens the financial foundation of the institution. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer sustains the long-term viability of the university's mission through prudent fiscal stewardship.

    Christopher Kabourek - Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Christopher Kabourek, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at West Virginia University, executes high-level financial planning and operational efficiency initiatives. Kabourek architects strategies for debt management and long-term capital investment to support the university's physical expansion. By analyzing economic indicators, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer identifies cost-saving measures that preserve academic quality. Kabourek coordinates with the broader executive team to align financial performance with the strategic goals of the institution. This role involves overseeing complex procurement processes and ensuring that all financial operations adhere to strict institutional standards. Christopher Kabourek drives revenue growth through diversified funding models and strategic partnerships. Through meticulous oversight of the university's financial health, Kabourek supports the expansion of research capabilities and student support services. Ultimately, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer ensures that every dollar invested advances the core mission of the university.
    Christopher Kabourek

    Emma Zaleski - WVU Women's Lacrosse President

    Emma Zaleski, the WVU Women's Lacrosse President at West Virginia University, directs the administrative and competitive operations of the student athletic organization. Zaleski architects the team's seasonal schedule, travel logistics, and recruitment efforts to ensure a high-quality student-athlete experience. By overseeing budget management and fundraising activities, the WVU Women's Lacrosse President secures the necessary resources for team success. Zaleski coordinates with university officials to maintain compliance with club sports regulations and safety standards. This leadership role involves fostering team cohesion and promoting the sport within the campus community. Emma Zaleski drives engagement by organizing outreach events that connect the team with the broader student body. Through the effective management of the organization, Zaleski supports the personal and athletic development of all members. Ultimately, the WVU Women's Lacrosse President ensures that the team remains a vibrant and competitive part of the university's extracurricular landscape.

    Camryn Morgan - President of the Residence Hall Association

    Camryn Morgan, the President of the Residence Hall Association at West Virginia University, directs student advocacy and community-building initiatives within campus housing. Morgan architects programs that enhance the living experience for students, ensuring a supportive environment for academic and personal growth. By overseeing the allocation of association funds, the President of the Residence Hall Association supports events that foster social connection and student well-being. Morgan coordinates with university housing staff to address student concerns and improve residential facilities. This leadership role involves representing the interests of residents in discussions with campus administration. Camryn Morgan drives initiatives that promote inclusivity and safety across all residence halls. Through the active management of student feedback, Morgan ensures that the residential experience aligns with the university's commitment to student success. Ultimately, the President of the Residence Hall Association creates a sense of belonging for students living on campus.

    Payton Ogden - President, Association For Women In Sports Media

    Payton Ogden, the President, Association For Women In Sports Media at West Virginia University, directs professional development and networking opportunities for students interested in sports journalism. Ogden architects workshops, guest speaker series, and mentorship programs that prepare members for careers in the competitive sports media industry. By overseeing the organization's outreach efforts, the President, Association For Women In Sports Media expands the visibility of the group across the university. Ogden coordinates with industry professionals to provide students with real-world insights and internship connections. This leadership role involves managing the association's budget and planning events that highlight the contributions of women in sports media. Payton Ogden drives the mission of the organization by fostering a supportive community for aspiring journalists. Through the effective management of the association, Ogden empowers students to pursue their professional goals. Ultimately, the President, Association For Women In Sports Media prepares the next generation of leaders in sports communication.

    Megan Grudell - President of WVU Water Ski Team

    Megan Grudell, the President of WVU Water Ski Team at West Virginia University, directs the operational and competitive functions of this specialized athletic club. Grudell architects the team's training regimen, competition schedule, and equipment maintenance protocols to ensure safety and performance. By overseeing membership recruitment and financial planning, the President of WVU Water Ski Team sustains the organization's ability to compete at the collegiate level. Grudell coordinates with university sports officials to manage travel logistics and tournament registrations. This leadership role involves building team spirit and promoting the sport to the wider student population. Megan Grudell drives the team's success by securing sponsorships and managing the club's administrative requirements. Through the effective management of the team, Grudell provides students with unique opportunities for athletic engagement and personal development. Ultimately, the President of WVU Water Ski Team maintains the club's status as a dedicated and active student organization.

    Sidney Morrison - Chief Information Officer

    Sidney Morrison, the Chief Information Officer at West Virginia University, directs the digital transformation and technological infrastructure of the campus. Morrison architects secure, scalable network solutions that support both remote learning and advanced research computing. By overseeing cybersecurity protocols, the Chief Information Officer protects sensitive institutional data and intellectual property. Morrison manages the deployment of enterprise software systems that streamline administrative workflows and enhance student services. This leadership role involves coordinating with academic units to integrate cutting-edge technology into the classroom experience. Sidney Morrison drives innovation by implementing data analytics tools that inform institutional policy and improve student retention rates. Through the modernization of digital assets, Morrison ensures that the university remains at the forefront of technological advancement. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer provides the essential digital backbone required for a premier land-grant research university to thrive in a global environment.

    Mario Barge - Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Mario Barge, the Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at West Virginia University, directs talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture initiatives. Barge architects comprehensive programs that attract top-tier faculty and staff to the university. By overseeing compensation structures and benefits administration, the Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the institution remains a competitive employer in the higher education market. Barge manages labor relations and promotes a workplace environment defined by equity and professional growth. This leadership role involves implementing training modules that enhance the skills of the workforce to meet evolving academic demands. Mario Barge drives initiatives that foster diversity and inclusion across all departments. Through the strategic management of human capital, Barge supports the university's ability to deliver high-quality education and research. Ultimately, the Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer builds the organizational strength necessary for institutional success.

    Stephanie Conrad - Chief of Staff - Clinical and Translational Science

    Stephanie Conrad, the Chief of Staff - Clinical and Translational Science at West Virginia University, coordinates the operational activities of the university's health research divisions. Conrad architects communication channels between clinical researchers and administrative leadership to accelerate the translation of laboratory discoveries into patient care. By overseeing project timelines and resource distribution, the Chief of Staff - Clinical and Translational Science ensures that research teams meet critical milestones. Conrad manages the integration of clinical data systems to support evidence-based medical advancements. This role involves facilitating collaboration across various medical departments to maximize the impact of translational science initiatives. Stephanie Conrad drives the strategic agenda for health-focused research, ensuring alignment with the university's broader public health goals. Through the effective management of complex research operations, Conrad enhances the university's reputation in the medical field. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff - Clinical and Translational Science bridges the gap between academic research and real-world health outcomes.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding West Virginia University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads West Virginia University?
    West Virginia University is led by Michelle Bergeron (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Rachel Jones (Chief Financial Officer) and Christopher Kabourek (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of West Virginia University’s executive team?
    The executive team of West Virginia University includes leaders such as Michelle Bergeron (Chief Executive Officer), Rachel Jones (Chief Financial Officer), Christopher Kabourek (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does West Virginia University have?
    West Virginia University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in West Virginia University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of West Virginia University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, WVU Women's Lacrosse President, President of the Residence Hall Association.