Central Washington University Executive and Leadership Team

Akiko Hall, the Executive Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer at Central Washington University, manages financial documentation and coordinates administrative support for the fiscal department. The Executive Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer organizes complex budgetary reports and facilitates communication between the finance office and external auditors. Akiko Hall ensures that all financial records remain accurate and compliant with state regulations, supporting the university's fiscal transparency. By streamlining the scheduling and correspondence for the finance leadership, the Executive Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer allows for more efficient decision-making regarding capital investments and operational funding. This role involves maintaining detailed archives of financial transactions and preparing briefings for board meetings. Hall provides essential support in tracking departmental expenditures, ensuring that resources align with the university's strategic goals. Through meticulous attention to detail, the Executive Secretary To the Chief Financial Officer contributes to the overall financial health and stability of the institution.

James Wohlpart, the President at Central Washington University, defines the strategic vision and leads the institution toward achieving its academic and community goals. The President oversees all university operations, ensuring that the mission of providing inclusive, high-quality education remains the primary focus. James Wohlpart engages with faculty, staff, and students to foster a culture of excellence and innovation. By representing the university to external stakeholders and government bodies, the President secures necessary support and funding for campus initiatives. This leadership role involves setting long-term objectives for enrollment growth, research output, and community impact. Wohlpart collaborates with the board of trustees to implement policies that enhance the university's reputation and financial sustainability. Through decisive leadership, the President guides the institution through complex challenges, ensuring that the university continues to serve as a vital educational resource for the state and the broader academic community.

Clare Bresnahan, the President at Central Washington University, directs the development of academic programs and promotes student-centered learning initiatives. The President focuses on expanding the university's reach and enhancing the quality of the student experience through targeted curriculum improvements. Clare Bresnahan manages relationships with regional partners to create internship and career opportunities for the student body. By prioritizing diversity and inclusion, the President ensures that the campus environment supports the success of all learners. This leadership role involves overseeing the allocation of academic resources and supporting faculty development programs. Bresnahan works to strengthen the university's brand, attracting prospective students and maintaining high retention rates. Through strategic planning and community outreach, the President drives the institution's growth, ensuring that the university remains a leader in public education and continues to meet the evolving needs of the workforce in the Pacific Northwest.

Michelle Hunter, the President at Central Washington University, leads the university's efforts in community engagement and regional economic development. The President oversees the expansion of outreach programs that connect the institution with local industries and public organizations. Michelle Hunter drives initiatives that promote lifelong learning and professional development for the broader community. By fostering partnerships with local businesses, the President creates pathways for student employment and collaborative research projects. This leadership role involves managing the university's public image and advocating for policies that support higher education access. Hunter works closely with administrative leaders to ensure that campus facilities and services meet the needs of a growing student population. Through a focus on regional impact and service, the President strengthens the university's role as a cornerstone of the community, ensuring that the institution contributes positively to the economic and social fabric of the region.

James Gaudino, the President at Central Washington University, manages the long-term strategic planning and institutional advancement efforts. The President oversees the implementation of large-scale capital projects and infrastructure improvements that support the university's academic mission. James Gaudino drives the development of fundraising campaigns and donor relations to secure the financial future of the institution. By analyzing market trends in higher education, the President identifies opportunities for program expansion and enrollment growth. This leadership role involves coordinating with the board to ensure that all institutional activities align with the university's core values and long-term vision. Gaudino maintains a focus on academic rigor and student achievement, ensuring that the university remains competitive in a changing educational landscape. Through effective governance and visionary leadership, the President guides the institution toward sustained excellence, ensuring that the university continues to provide valuable educational opportunities to students across the state.

Mariah Perkins, the President at Central Washington University, leads the university's efforts in student affairs and campus life enhancement. The President oversees the development of programs that support student well-being, mental health, and extracurricular engagement. Mariah Perkins drives initiatives that foster a vibrant campus culture, ensuring that students feel connected and supported throughout the academic journey. By managing the student services division, the President ensures that resources are available to help students succeed both inside and outside the classroom. This leadership role involves collaborating with student government and faculty to address concerns and improve the overall campus experience. Perkins works to create an environment that promotes personal growth and leadership development. Through a commitment to student-centered policies, the President ensures that the university remains a welcoming and inclusive space, contributing to high levels of student satisfaction and long-term success for the entire university community.

Sherer Holter, the Chief of Staff at Central Washington University, coordinates executive communications and facilitates strategic planning initiatives. The Chief of Staff manages the flow of information between the president's office and various academic departments, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities. Sherer Holter executes complex projects that require cross-functional collaboration, bridging gaps between administrative units and faculty leadership. By managing the executive agenda, the Chief of Staff enables the leadership team to focus on core academic objectives and community engagement. This role involves drafting policy recommendations and overseeing the implementation of university-wide initiatives designed to improve campus culture. Holter maintains a high level of operational readiness, addressing critical issues as they arise to prevent disruptions in academic services. Through proactive management of executive workflows, the Chief of Staff ensures that the university remains focused on its mission of providing high-quality, inclusive education to students throughout the region.

Virginia Tomlinson, the Vice Provost, Institutional Transformation & Assistant VP, Information Services & Chief Information Officer at Central Washington University, architects the digital infrastructure and leads campus-wide modernization efforts. The Vice Provost, Institutional Transformation & Assistant VP, Information Services & Chief Information Officer oversees the implementation of advanced information systems that support both academic research and administrative functions. Virginia Tomlinson drives the integration of technology into the classroom, ensuring that students and faculty have access to cutting-edge digital tools. By managing the university's information services, the Vice Provost, Institutional Transformation & Assistant VP, Information Services & Chief Information Officer secures data integrity and enhances network reliability across all campus locations. This leadership role involves collaborating with academic deans to align technological investments with pedagogical goals. Tomlinson ensures that the institution remains at the forefront of educational innovation, fostering an environment where digital transformation supports long-term institutional growth and student success.

Nelson Smith, the Managing Director at Central Washington University, directs high-level operational workflows to ensure institutional efficiency. Managing Director Smith oversees the integration of administrative resources, aligning departmental goals with the broader mission of providing accessible public education. By optimizing internal processes, the Managing Director supports the university's commitment to academic quality and student support services. Nelson Smith coordinates with various campus stakeholders to streamline resource allocation, ensuring that the institution maintains its competitive standing within the higher education landscape. This leadership role involves monitoring performance metrics and implementing strategic improvements to enhance the overall student experience. Through rigorous oversight of operational budgets and personnel management, the Managing Director drives sustainable growth. Smith maintains a focus on long-term institutional stability, ensuring that all administrative functions remain responsive to the evolving needs of the diverse student body and faculty members across the university system.