West Virginia University Executive and Leadership Team

Michelle Bergeron, the Chief Executive Officer at West Virginia University, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the institution. Overseeing all major university initiatives, Bergeron ensures alignment with the land-grant mission and research objectives. This leadership role involves fostering key stakeholder relationships, including government bodies, industry partners, and alumni networks, to drive institutional growth and impact. By championing innovation and academic excellence, Michelle Bergeron secures the university's position as a leading research institution. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to guiding resource allocation and long-term planning, ensuring sustainable development and enhanced educational outcomes for students across West Virginia and beyond.

Rachel Jones, the Chief Financial Officer at West Virginia University, manages the comprehensive financial operations and fiscal strategy of the institution. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource management, Jones ensures the fiscal health and sustainability of all university departments and initiatives. This critical role involves developing financial models to support research endeavors and academic programs, while also managing investments and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations. By optimizing financial performance, Rachel Jones directly supports the university's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education and advancing groundbreaking research. The Chief Financial Officer's strategic oversight guarantees efficient allocation of funds, enabling West Virginia University to achieve its long-term goals and expand its impact.

Omar Banks, the Deputy Athletic Director and Chief Financial Officer at West Virginia University, directs the financial strategy and operational oversight for the university's athletic department. Managing budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation for all athletic programs, Banks ensures fiscal responsibility and supports the pursuit of athletic excellence. This dual role involves collaborating with athletic leadership to enhance competitive performance while maintaining financial sustainability. By optimizing revenue streams and controlling expenditures, Omar Banks directly contributes to the success and growth of West Virginia University athletics. The Deputy Athletic Director and Chief Financial Officer's expertise guarantees that athletic endeavors align with the university's broader financial objectives and commitment to student-athlete welfare.

Christopher Kabourek, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at West Virginia University, leads the financial planning, budgeting, and fiscal management for the institution. Overseeing all financial operations, Kabourek ensures the strategic allocation of resources to support academic excellence, research initiatives, and campus development. This role is critical in driving financial sustainability, managing investments, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards across all university functions. By implementing robust financial controls and innovative fiscal strategies, Christopher Kabourek enhances the university's economic resilience and capacity for growth. The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer's leadership guarantees that West Virginia University maintains a strong financial foundation, enabling continued investment in its mission and community.

Megan Grudell, the President of WVU Water Ski Team at West Virginia University, leads the student-led organization dedicated to competitive water skiing. Overseeing team operations, event coordination, and member engagement, Grudell ensures the team's success both on and off the water. This role involves managing team finances, organizing practice schedules, and fostering a positive team culture that promotes athletic development and camaraderie. By championing the sport and representing the university, Megan Grudell enhances the visibility and spirit of student athletics. The President of WVU Water Ski Team's commitment to leadership and teamwork cultivates valuable skills for student participants, contributing to a vibrant campus life at West Virginia University.

Emma Zaleski, the WVU Women's Lacrosse President at West Virginia University, directs the student-led initiative for the women's lacrosse program. Overseeing team management, recruitment efforts, and event planning, Zaleski ensures the smooth operation and competitive readiness of the team. This leadership position involves coordinating with university athletic departments, managing team budgets, and fostering team cohesion and athletic achievement. By advocating for the program and supporting student-athletes, Emma Zaleski contributes to the growth of women's sports at the university. The WVU Women's Lacrosse President's dedication to organizational leadership and athletic development provides a platform for student success and enhances the university's athletic profile.

Amy Garbrick, the Director, Operations & President, Office of at West Virginia University, manages critical operational functions and leads specific office initiatives. Overseeing day-to-day administrative processes and strategic project implementation, Garbrick ensures efficiency and effectiveness across designated university departments. This role is essential for optimizing resource utilization and supporting the seamless execution of institutional objectives. By driving operational improvements and fostering cross-departmental collaboration, Amy Garbrick enhances the university's capacity to achieve its academic and research goals. The Director, Operations & President, Office of's focus on strategic execution and administrative excellence is fundamental to West Virginia University's ongoing success and its commitment to providing a high-quality educational experience.

Sidney Morrison, the Chief Information Officer at West Virginia University, leads the strategic development and implementation of all information technology infrastructure and services. Overseeing the university's digital landscape, Morrison ensures robust cybersecurity measures, efficient data management, and seamless technological support for academic, research, and administrative functions. This role is pivotal in driving digital transformation, enhancing learning environments through advanced educational technologies, and supporting cutting-edge research data needs. By modernizing IT systems, Sidney Morrison empowers faculty, staff, and students with the tools necessary for success. The Chief Information Officer's vision ensures West Virginia University remains at the forefront of technological integration, fostering innovation and operational excellence across the entire institution.

Mario Barge, the Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at West Virginia University, oversees the comprehensive human capital strategy and management for the institution. Directing all aspects of employee relations, talent acquisition, compensation, benefits, and professional development, Barge ensures a supportive and productive work environment for faculty and staff. This leadership position is crucial for fostering a culture of engagement, diversity, and inclusion, aligning HR practices with the university's strategic goals. By implementing innovative HR solutions, Mario Barge enhances organizational effectiveness and employee satisfaction. The Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer's focus on talent development and retention is fundamental to West Virginia University's continued success and its ability to attract and retain top-tier academic and administrative talent.

Stephanie Conrad, the Chief of Staff - Clinical and Translational Science at West Virginia University, provides strategic leadership and operational support for the clinical and translational science initiatives. Overseeing project management, resource coordination, and interdisciplinary collaboration, Conrad ensures the efficient advancement of research aimed at improving human health. This vital role involves facilitating communication between researchers, clinicians, and administrative bodies to accelerate the translation of scientific discoveries into practical medical applications. By streamlining operations and fostering a collaborative research environment, Stephanie Conrad directly supports the university's commitment to groundbreaking medical advancements. The Chief of Staff's dedication to operational excellence drives progress in clinical and translational science, enhancing patient outcomes and the university's research reputation.