Directors and Executive Staff

Dr. Sasha Thackaberry serves as the Vice President for Online and Continuing Education at LSU. She leads fully online programs, supports online and blended courses, and oversees professional development, K-12, and community programming. Sasha holds a Ph.D. in higher education administration with a research focus in Competency-Based Education.

Charlotte Bencaz is the Chief Partnership Officer and Director of Marketing. Charlotte's previous role as Partnership Director at Pearson Online Learning Services allowed her to serve as a strategic partner and marketing expert to ensure ROI and strong results for partners. After working with Pearson, Charlotte was happy to return to her alma mater.

Shannon Kahler serves as Senior Project Manager at LSU Online. With over 20 years in project management, marketing and strategic planning, her efforts include guardrailing projects–including online, continuing education , and community programs–from design to delivery, assisting in onboarding and creation of courses. She has an MBA and BA in Political Science from LSU.

Dr. Radhika Krishnadas serves as the Executive Director of Learning Design and Professional Development for LSU Online. Dr. Krishnadas has over 15 years’ higher education experience in curriculum and outcomes assessment. Her team of learning experience designers train and support faculty in the design of intentional, meaningful, and memorable learning experiences. Radhika holds a terminal degree in Curriculum & Instruction.

Dr. Michelle Martin serves as the Director of Operations and the Business Office. With over 20 years of higher education experience in enrollment management, student services, and finance, Dr. Martin manages the financial relationships with programs across LSU Online as well as fosters productive partnerships with departments in program development. She holds a Ph.D. in Urban Higher Education Administration with a focus on higher education finance.

Kayla Mike serves as the Executive Director of Online Student Recruitment and Retention. Kayla has over 12 years of experience working in Admissions and Higher Education. Her teams provide World Class Customer Service and support every step of the way to ensure each learner is successful in achieving their goals.

Kappie Mumphrey is an IT leader with over 25 years of IT management experience, including having served as CIO for multiple organizations. She has been instrumental in developing and implementing IT strategies and governance processes in different industries. Her work has recently focused on Digital Strategies that enhance the customer experience through innovative uses of technology.

Justin W. Rice currently serves as the Assistant to the Vice President. Justin provides support with the day-to-day operations of the department, including project management. He has over 15 years of experience in Higher Education and with it he brings to us a wealth of experience in administration, finance, and student services.

Melanie Thompson is the Executive Director of Program Management and Strategy at LSU Online. She provides programs at LSU with the tools and support they need to successfully launch innovative online learning credentials. Melanie's previous experience includes online learning in the community college and Ed Tech startups in the K-12 space.

Lisa Verma is the Senior Director of Professional Development and Community Programs at LSU Continuing Education. With over 28 years of higher education experience, Lisa and her team develop and build programs based on specific educational needs for youth, workforce professionals, and those seeking life-long learning opportunities.