Arishna Lastinger, director of Parking Services at Auburn University, has been named executive director of Parking and Transportation Services, effective Oct. 1, 2026.
Parking and Transportation Services, units within Business and Administration at Auburn University, support the university’s mobility needs by managing and planning of parking, transit and transportation operations serving students, faculty, staff and visitors across campus. In her new role, Lastinger will provide strategic leadership for Auburn’s parking, transportation and integrated mobility enterprise.
Lastinger brings more than a decade of progressively responsible experience in parking, financial management and administrative operations. Since joining Auburn’s Parking Services team in 2017, she has advanced through a series of leadership positions, serving as lead administrative assistant, manager of parking operations, associate director, and, since 2023, director of Parking Services.
As director, Lastinger has led significant initiatives that strengthened the department’s operational effectiveness and positioned Auburn for future growth. Under her leadership, Parking Services earned designation as an Accredited Parking Organization through the International Parking & Mobility Institute, a nationally recognized achievement reflecting excellence in organizational management, professional practices and operational performance. She also guided the implementation of technology and process improvements that enhanced efficiency, strengthened data-informed decision-making and modernized parking and mobility operations across campus.
“Arishna has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, sound judgment and a deep commitment to serving the Auburn community,” said Emmett Winn, associate vice president for Administrative Effectiveness. “She combines strategic vision with operational excellence and has earned the respect of colleagues across campus and throughout the parking and transportation profession. Her success in leading the department through national accreditation and advancing innovative operational improvements demonstrates her readiness to lead Auburn’s parking and transportation enterprise into the future.”
A respected leader within the profession, Lastinger currently serves as president of the Mid-South Transportation and Parking Association and is actively involved with the International Parking & Mobility Institute, the Campus Parking & Transportation Association and the Southeastern Conference Transportation & Parking Directors organization. She also serves as chair of Auburn University’s Traffic and Parking Committee.
“Arishna Lastinger has distinguished herself through her collaborative leadership style, her focus on continuous improvement and her ability to build strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders,” said Kelli Shomaker, senior vice president for Business and Administration and chief financial officer. “Her experience, professionalism and commitment to excellence make her exceptionally well qualified to lead Parking and Transportation Services into the future. As key units within Business and Administration, Parking and Transportation Services play an important role in supporting Auburn University’s operations, growth and student experience, and we are excited to see Arishna continue advancing that mission in this important leadership role.”
Throughout her career, Lastinger has demonstrated a commitment to improving operations through data-informed decision-making, thoughtful collaboration, and strategic leadership. She is recognized for her ability to build partnerships, communicate effectively, and bring diverse stakeholders together to develop solutions that support the university’s evolving needs.
“I am honored by the opportunity to serve Auburn University in this new capacity,” said Lastinger. “Parking and Transportation Services play a vital role in supporting the university’s mission and the Auburn experience. I look forward to working alongside our talented teams and campus partners to build on our accomplishments, strengthen our integrated mobility network, and continue advancing innovative transportation solutions that meet the needs of a growing university.”
Lastinger’s appointment reflects Auburn University’s commitment to developing talented leaders from within and recognizing individuals who have demonstrated exceptional performance, professional growth and dedication to the university community.
Submitted by: crh0035@auburn.edu
