Top 10 Chief of Staff - 2026

Shree Carter has more than 25 years of experience at Vanguard University of Southern California, where she has served in roles spanning strategic planning, operations, human resources, conflict management and executive support. As Chief of Staff, she serves as a strategic advisor and connector across the university, helping translate institutional priorities into coordinated action. An alumna of Vanguard, Carter brings a deep understanding of its people, culture and mission to her work, with a leadership philosophy grounded in service, integrity and purposeful collaboration.

Dr. Lauren Hooten, Ph.D., is a strategic education and communications leader serving as chief of staff at Poudre School District. She brings expertise in organizational strategy, communications, human resources, project management and change management.

Michael Porter is a hockey operations professional with experience in player scouting, coaching and sports law. As Director of Player Personnel for Michigan State University’s men’s ice hockey program, he oversees recruiting, team travel, player development initiatives and alumni engagement. A former Spartan hockey player and licensed attorney, he brings experience representing professional hockey players, coaches and organizations.

Curtiss Sarikey is an education and social work leader with more than 30 years of experience supporting children, families and school communities. As chief of staff at Oakland Unified School District, he has helped advance community school initiatives, strengthen partnerships and support districtwide efforts focused on student and family well-being.

Henrie Walton is a higher education administrator with experience in university leadership, government relations and community engagement. As chief of staff at Utah Tech University, she supports the president’s office, coordinates institutional priorities and serves as secretary to the university’s Board of Trustees. Her work includes supporting strategic planning, government and community partnerships and communication between university leadership and external stakeholders.

Malcolm Derk is a higher education administrator with experience in university leadership, government affairs and community engagement. As chief of staff at Susquehanna University, he supports the president’s office in advancing institutional priorities and strengthening relationships with community and government partners. His background includes more than a decade of elected county government service, grant development and foundation relations, alongside an academic foundation in public administration.

Carrie Ramsey is an education professional with experience supporting organizational leadership and operations. As chief of staff at DSST Public Schools, she has been part of the senior leadership team at a public charter school network focused on academic achievement, character development and preparing students for college, careers and life.

Ennis C. Harvey, Chief of Staff at DeKalb County School District, stands at what he calls the intersection of “information, intuition and intent.” He has spent more than three decades in education, beginning as a special education paraprofessional, becoming an assistant principal and moving into district leadership.

Michael Ramirez brings a people-centered approach to Duval County Public Schools. He sees K-12 public education as a calling to change lives and shape future generations.

With three decades in public service and higher education, Kevin H. Hoffman brings lived perspective and steady leadership to Prairie View A&M University. As Chief of Staff for the President, he helps turn institutional priorities into coordinated action across academics, student support and long-term growth. His style blends strategy with bridge-building, grounded in the belief that universities are strongest when people work toward a shared goal.