Education Insider proudly presents the Top 10 Education HR Directors 2026, recognizing leaders who are shaping the workforce strategies that support thriving educational communities. These professionals oversee talent acquisition, employee development, workforce planning, and organizational culture initiatives while helping institutions attract, retain, and empower educators and staff. Their leadership strengthens workplace engagement, supports professional growth, and creates environments where employees can succeed, ultimately contributing to stronger educational outcomes and more resilient institutions.
Top 10 Education HR Directors - 2026
Jarred Elias View Profile
Human Resources Director, Arizona State University
Jarred Elias is Human Resources Director at Arizona State University, where he guides a workforce of more than 20,000 employees. For more than two decades in HR leadership, he has developed expertise in workforce planning, talent strategy and organizational effectiveness. His career reflects a proactive approach on understanding that workforce challenges are easier to solve when they are identified before-hand.
Crystal McFarland View Profile
Human Resources Director, Western Governors University
Crystal McFarland serves as Human Resources Director at Western Governors University, where her work supports workforce planning and employee development at larger educational institutions. Her career in human resources has been shaping organisations prepared for changing workforce needs while maintaining an atmosphere where employee's growth and success.
