University Administration
President Mearns leads Ball State under the guidance of the university’s nine-member Board of Trustees. Mearns also receives input and advice from his cabinet, a senior leadership team comprising the heads of the institution’s seven divisions and the university foundation. Three additional governing bodies—the University Senate, Staff Council, and Student Government Association—also play key roles in the strategic direction of the university.
Appointed by the governor of Indiana, the Board of Trustees is the primary governing entity of Ball State. It sets the strategic direction of the university, ensures fiscal responsibility, and provides oversight to university operations, among its many responsibilities. Learn more.
The President’s Cabinet consists of vice presidents and other senior leaders of the university representing its divisions. The team advises the president on all academic and administrative functions of the university. Learn more.
The University Senate consists of the Campus Council, Faculty Council, and University Council, each of which include multiple committees. The committees review and advise on policies for everything from admissions standards to academic freedom to student activities. Learn more.
The Staff Council reviews and advises university policies affecting full-time staff of the university. The council has influenced decisions ranging from hiring procedures to parking permits. Learn more.
Student Government Association is a student-run organization in which elected representatives provide a voice for students and advocate their concerns to university faculty, administration, and the community. Learn more.