Wichita State University Executive and Leadership Team

Lonnell Kinchion, the Chief Executive Officer at Wichita State University, directs the overarching strategic vision for this public research institution. Kinchion architects long-term academic growth by aligning university resources with the evolving needs of the student body and the broader Kansas research community. By overseeing high-level institutional partnerships, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that research initiatives remain competitive on a national scale. Kinchion manages the integration of diverse degree programs, ensuring that the curriculum meets rigorous standards for doctoral and graduate excellence. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to maintain financial stability and operational integrity. Through the implementation of data-driven decision-making, Lonnell Kinchion secures the future of the university as a premier center for higher education. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer drives the mission of providing accessible, high-quality learning opportunities across all academic departments.

Telly McGaha, the President & Chief Executive Officer & WSU Foundation Executive ( Team Guest Member) at Wichita State University, manages the critical intersection of institutional fundraising and academic development. McGaha directs the WSU Foundation to secure private support that fuels research and student scholarships. By overseeing donor relations and capital campaigns, the President & Chief Executive Officer & WSU Foundation Executive ( Team Guest Member) ensures that the university maintains the necessary resources to sustain its expansive doctoral and graduate programs. This role requires constant coordination with external stakeholders to amplify the impact of the university within the regional economy. Telly McGaha executes strategies that bridge the gap between philanthropic investment and tangible educational outcomes. Through the cultivation of long-term partnerships, McGaha strengthens the financial foundation of the institution, allowing for continued innovation in research and teaching across all fields of study.

Rick Kampschroeder, the Chief Operating Officer at Wichita State University, manages the physical and logistical assets that support the university mission. Kampschroeder directs the maintenance of campus facilities, ensuring that laboratories, classrooms, and research centers meet the highest standards for safety and functionality. By overseeing the operational budget and resource allocation, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that every department has the necessary support to conduct high-level research. Rick Kampschroeder executes strategies to improve campus sustainability and energy efficiency, reducing the overall environmental footprint of the institution. This role involves constant coordination with administrative staff to streamline procurement and supply chain processes. Through the effective management of physical infrastructure, Kampschroeder supports the academic growth of the university. Ultimately, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the operational environment required for students and faculty to excel in their respective fields of study.

Jacob Mendez, the President, Staff Senate at Wichita State University, directs the representative body that advocates for the interests of the university staff. Mendez architects communication channels between the staff and the executive leadership, ensuring that employee concerns are addressed in institutional decision-making. By overseeing the activities of the Staff Senate, the President, Staff Senate ensures that the contributions of all employees are recognized and valued. Jacob Mendez manages the development of initiatives that improve workplace culture and professional satisfaction across the campus. This role involves constant collaboration with various committees to promote transparency and shared governance. Through the effective representation of staff interests, Mendez drives organizational cohesion and morale. Ultimately, the President, Staff Senate secures a collaborative environment where every member of the university community can contribute to the success of the institution and its research mission.

Nathan Carr, the President of the WSU Chapter at Wichita State University, directs the local operations and strategic initiatives of the specific university chapter. Carr architects engagement programs that connect students and alumni with the broader university mission. By overseeing the chapter activities, the President of the WSU Chapter ensures that the values of the institution are promoted through community outreach and professional networking. Nathan Carr manages the coordination of events and projects that highlight the research and academic achievements of the university. This role involves constant interaction with members to foster a sense of belonging and institutional pride. Through the effective leadership of the chapter, Carr drives participation and support for university goals. Ultimately, the President of the WSU Chapter secures the long-term engagement of the university community, strengthening the impact of the institution within the region.

Michael Goldberg, the Co-Founder & President at Wichita State University, directs the entrepreneurial initiatives and strategic partnerships that expand the university reach. Goldberg architects programs that bridge the gap between academic research and commercial application, fostering innovation within the local economy. By overseeing the development of new ventures, the Co-Founder & President ensures that the university remains at the forefront of industry-relevant research. Michael Goldberg manages the relationships with external investors and corporate partners to secure funding for emerging projects. This role involves constant collaboration with faculty to translate research findings into practical solutions. Through the promotion of an entrepreneurial mindset, Goldberg drives the economic impact of the university. Ultimately, the Co-Founder & President secures the future of the institution as a hub for innovation, ensuring that research efforts lead to tangible benefits for the community and the broader market.

Austin Nordyke, the Chief of Staff at Wichita State University, coordinates the daily operations of the executive office to ensure seamless communication across all administrative departments. Nordyke architects the flow of information between the leadership team and the broader university community, facilitating efficient decision-making processes. By overseeing special projects and strategic initiatives, the Chief of Staff ensures that institutional goals remain the primary focus of every administrative unit. Austin Nordyke manages complex scheduling and policy implementation, allowing the executive team to concentrate on long-term research and academic objectives. This role involves constant interaction with various campus stakeholders to resolve operational bottlenecks and improve organizational efficiency. Through the rigorous management of internal workflows, Nordyke supports the university mission of providing high-quality education. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff maintains the operational rhythm necessary for the institution to thrive in a competitive higher education landscape.

Ken Harmon, the Chief Information Officer at Wichita State University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological strategy required for a modern research university. Harmon architects secure, scalable network solutions that support both remote learning and on-campus research activities. By overseeing the deployment of advanced computing resources, the Chief Information Officer ensures that faculty and students possess the tools necessary for academic success. Ken Harmon manages the cybersecurity posture of the institution, protecting sensitive research data and student information from emerging threats. This role involves constant collaboration with academic departments to integrate new software and hardware into the existing curriculum. Through the optimization of IT services, Harmon drives the digital transformation of the university, enhancing the overall educational experience. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer secures the technological backbone that allows the institution to maintain its status as a leader in public research and innovation.

Vicki Whisenhant, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Wichita State University, directs the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies for the entire institution. Whisenhant architects programs that attract and retain top-tier faculty and administrative staff, ensuring the university remains a competitive employer. By overseeing employee relations, benefits administration, and professional development, the Chief Human Resources Officer fosters a culture of excellence and inclusivity. Vicki Whisenhant manages the implementation of policies that support the diverse needs of the workforce, from research scientists to support personnel. This role involves constant collaboration with department heads to align staffing levels with the strategic goals of the university. Through the optimization of human capital management, Whisenhant drives organizational performance and employee engagement. Ultimately, the Chief Human Resources Officer secures the talent necessary to sustain the long-term academic and research mission of the institution.

Ryan Hillard, the Chief of Staff - Men's Basketball at Wichita State University, directs the administrative and operational functions of the men's basketball program. Hillard architects the logistical support required for team travel, recruitment, and daily practice schedules. By overseeing the coordination between the athletic department and university administration, the Chief of Staff - Men's Basketball ensures that the program adheres to all institutional and conference regulations. Ryan Hillard manages the internal communications and scheduling for the coaching staff, allowing for a focus on player development and competitive performance. This role involves constant interaction with student-athletes to ensure academic progress and personal growth. Through the efficient management of team operations, Hillard supports the broader athletic mission of the university. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff - Men's Basketball drives the success of the program by maintaining a high standard of organization and professional conduct.