Central Washington University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Central Washington University has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, information technology, and institutional transformation.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Central Washington University provides a comprehensive range of majors, fostering student success and contributing to the Ellensburg, Washington community since its establishment in 1891.

Leadership Roles at Central Washington University

  • Executive Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer - Akiko Hall
  • President, Stu SAL - Armando Ortiz
  • President - Michelle Hunter
  • President - Clare Bresnahan
  • President - James Gaudino
  • President - Jesus Iñiguez
  • President - James Wohlpart
  • Chief of Staff - Sherer Holter
  • Vice Provost, Institutional Transformation & Assistant VP, Information Services & Chief Information Officer - Virginia Tomlinson
  • Akiko Hall - Executive Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer

    Akiko Hall, the Executive Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer at Central Washington University, provides essential administrative support to the financial leadership. This role is critical in managing the flow of information and ensuring the smooth operation of the finance department. Hall coordinates schedules, prepares documentation, and facilitates communication between the CFO and other university stakeholders. By maintaining organized records and supporting financial planning processes, Akiko Hall contributes to the fiscal health and operational efficiency of Central Washington University, upholding its commitment to providing accessible education.

    Armando Ortiz - President, Stu SAL

    Armando Ortiz, the President, Stu SAL at Central Washington University, leads student advocacy and engagement initiatives. This role focuses on representing student interests and enhancing the overall student experience within the university community. Ortiz collaborates with university administration to address student concerns and implement programs that support academic success and personal development. By championing student welfare and fostering a vibrant campus life, Armando Ortiz plays a key part in ensuring Central Washington University remains an inclusive environment for all learners.

    Michelle Hunter - President

    Michelle Hunter, the President at Central Washington University, directs the overall strategic vision and operational management of the institution. This leadership position involves guiding academic programs, fostering research, and ensuring the university's financial stability and growth. Hunter collaborates with faculty, staff, and external stakeholders to advance the university's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. Overseeing all facets of university operations, Michelle Hunter drives initiatives that enhance student success and maintain Central Washington University's standing as a leading public institution in Ellensburg, Washington.

    Clare Bresnahan - President

    Clare Bresnahan, the President at Central Washington University, spearheads strategic planning and institutional development. This executive role focuses on advancing the university's academic offerings and expanding its reach within the education sector. Bresnahan works to enhance student learning outcomes and foster a supportive campus environment. By driving innovation in educational delivery and operational management, Clare Bresnahan ensures Central Washington University continues to meet the evolving needs of its students and the broader community.

    James Gaudino - President

    James Gaudino, the President at Central Washington University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the institution. Gaudino oversees all academic and administrative functions, ensuring the university uphms its commitment to providing a comprehensive and inclusive educational experience. This role involves fostering partnerships, driving institutional growth, and maintaining high standards of academic excellence. By guiding the university's operations and strategic initiatives, James Gaudino supports the mission of Central Washington University in Ellensburg, Washington, and its dedication to student success.
    James Gaudino

    Jesus Iñiguez - President

    Jesus Iñiguez, the President at Central Washington University, leads the institution's strategic direction and operational oversight. This executive position is responsible for advancing academic programs, fostering research, and ensuring the university's commitment to student success. Iñiguez collaborates with university leadership to implement initiatives that enhance educational quality and institutional effectiveness. By guiding the university's overall mission, Jesus Iñiguez supports Central Washington University's role in providing accessible and impactful higher education.

    James Wohlpart - President

    James Wohlpart, the President at Central Washington University, directs the institution's strategic vision and operational execution. This leadership role encompasses overseeing academic affairs, student services, and administrative functions to ensure the university's mission is met. Wohlpart focuses on fostering an environment of academic excellence and innovation, driving initiatives that enhance student learning and engagement. By guiding the university's development and resource allocation, James Wohlpart supports Central Washington University's commitment to providing accessible and transformative educational opportunities.
    James Wohlpart

    Sherer Holter - Chief of Staff

    Sherer Holter, the Chief of Staff at Central Washington University, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across university departments. This leadership role ensures efficient execution of the President's agenda and facilitates interdepartmental communication. Holter manages key projects, driving progress on institutional priorities and supporting the overall mission of providing a diverse range of academic programs. Overseeing critical administrative functions, Sherer Holter enhances the university's operational effectiveness and supports the strategic vision for Central Washington University's continued growth and academic excellence in Ellensburg, Washington.

    Virginia Tomlinson - Vice Provost, Institutional Transformation & Assistant VP, Information Services & Chief Information Officer

    Virginia Tomlinson, the Vice Provost, Institutional Transformation & Assistant VP, Information Services & Chief Information Officer at Central Washington University, architects the university's technological infrastructure and drives institutional change through digital innovation. Tomlinson oversees all information technology services, ensuring robust and secure systems that support academic and administrative functions. This leadership position involves developing and implementing strategies for institutional transformation, leveraging technology to enhance educational delivery and operational efficiency. Virginia Tomlinson guides the integration of new technologies and processes, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and supporting Central Washington University's mission to offer a comprehensive range of majors.
    Virginia Tomlinson

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Central Washington University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Central Washington University?
    Central Washington University is led by Akiko Hall (Executive Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Armando Ortiz (President, Stu SAL) and Michelle Hunter (President).
    Who is part of Central Washington University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Central Washington University includes leaders such as Akiko Hall (Executive Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer), Armando Ortiz (President, Stu SAL), Michelle Hunter (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Central Washington University have?
    Central Washington University has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Central Washington University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Central Washington University includes roles such as Executive Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer, President, Stu SAL, President, President, President.