Fort Lewis College Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Fort Lewis College has 9 executives leading key functions including advancement, finance, operations, and information technology.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Fort Lewis College provides a range of bachelor's degrees, fostering intellectual growth and preparing students for impactful careers in a dynamic global landscape.

Leadership Roles at Fort Lewis College

  • Vice President of Advancement & Chief Executive Officer, FLC Foundation - Lori Cook
  • Chief Financial Officer - Samantha Gallagher
  • Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Operating Officer - Steven Schwartz
  • President - Heather Shotton
  • President - Dene Thomas
  • President - Isabelle Shepard
  • President - Teanna Banks
  • IT Chief Information Officer & Director - James Bodine
  • Chief Financial & Operations Officer - Cheryl Heitz
  • Lori Cook - Vice President of Advancement & Chief Executive Officer, FLC Foundation

    Lori Cook, the Vice President of Advancement & Chief Executive Officer, FLC Foundation at Fort Lewis College, directs all fundraising and alumni engagement initiatives. Cook oversees the strategic development and execution of campaigns designed to secure vital financial resources for the college and its students. This leadership position involves cultivating relationships with donors, foundations, and corporate partners to foster long-term support and philanthropic growth. Cook manages the FLC Foundation, ensuring its operations align with the college's mission and financial objectives. By driving initiatives that enhance the college's endowment and support critical programs, Cook directly impacts the institution's capacity for innovation and student success. The scope of this role encompasses building a robust advancement infrastructure to sustain Fort Lewis College's educational endeavors.

    Samantha Gallagher - Chief Financial Officer

    Samantha Gallagher, the Chief Financial Officer at Fort Lewis College, directs the institution's comprehensive financial strategy and management. Gallagher oversees all aspects of fiscal operations, including budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and reporting, ensuring fiscal health and sustainability. This critical role involves managing the college's financial resources to support academic programs, research initiatives, and operational needs. Gallagher works closely with other senior leaders to allocate funds effectively and identify opportunities for financial optimization. By maintaining rigorous financial controls and compliance, the Chief Financial Officer safeguards the college's assets and ensures responsible stewardship of public and private funds. Samantha Gallagher's leadership is essential for Fort Lewis College's long-term financial stability and growth.

    Steven Schwartz - Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Operating Officer

    Steven Schwartz, the Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Operating Officer at Fort Lewis College, orchestrates the operational backbone of the institution. Schwartz oversees a broad spectrum of administrative functions, including facilities management, human resources, campus safety, and auxiliary services, ensuring efficient and effective daily operations. This leadership role is pivotal in managing the college's physical infrastructure and support systems, enabling faculty and students to focus on academic pursuits. By driving operational efficiencies and strategic resource allocation, Schwartz directly contributes to the college's ability to deliver its educational mission. Steven Schwartz's oversight ensures that all non-academic functions support the core academic objectives of Fort Lewis College, fostering a productive and secure campus environment.
    Steven Schwartz

    Heather Shotton - President

    Heather Shotton, the President at Fort Lewis College, provides the overarching vision and strategic direction for the entire institution. Shotton leads all academic, administrative, and external relations efforts, championing the college's mission and values. This executive leadership role involves fostering a culture of academic excellence, promoting student success, and advancing the college's standing within the higher education landscape. By guiding strategic initiatives and cultivating key partnerships, President Shotton ensures Fort Lewis College remains responsive to the evolving needs of its students and the broader community. Heather Shotton's leadership is fundamental to the college's continued growth and impact.
    Heather Shotton

    Dene Thomas - President

    Dene Thomas, the President at Fort Lewis College, directs the institution's strategic trajectory and operational integrity. Thomas oversees the implementation of academic programs and administrative policies, ensuring alignment with the college's core mission. This leadership position is vital for fostering an environment conducive to learning, research, and community engagement. By guiding key initiatives and managing institutional resources, President Thomas supports the advancement of educational excellence. Dene Thomas's commitment to strategic planning and operational oversight ensures Fort Lewis College effectively serves its student body and contributes meaningfully to the region.

    Isabelle Shepard - President

    Isabelle Shepard, the President at Fort Lewis College, leads the institution with a focus on strategic growth and academic innovation. Shepard oversees the development and execution of institutional strategies, ensuring the college meets its educational and research objectives. This role is critical in shaping the college's future, fostering collaborations, and enhancing its reputation. By guiding key decisions and resource allocation, President Shepard drives progress across all departments. Isabelle Shepard's leadership ensures Fort Lewis College continues to provide high-quality education and adapt to the dynamic landscape of higher learning.

    Teanna Banks - President

    Teanna Banks, the President at Fort Lewis College, provides executive leadership and strategic vision for the institution. Banks directs the college's overall operations, focusing on enhancing academic quality and student support services. This pivotal role involves fostering a collaborative environment and advancing the college's mission through effective governance and resource management. By championing key initiatives, President Banks ensures Fort Lewis College remains at the forefront of higher education. Teanna Banks's leadership is dedicated to promoting educational excellence and institutional advancement.

    James Bodine - IT Chief Information Officer & Director

    James Bodine, the IT Chief Information Officer & Director at Fort Lewis College, spearheads the institution's technology strategy and infrastructure. Bodine directs the development and implementation of information systems, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures and seamless technological support for academic and administrative functions. This role is crucial for enhancing digital learning environments, managing data integrity, and providing cutting-edge technological resources to students and faculty. By overseeing the college's IT operations, James Bodine ensures that technology effectively supports pedagogical innovation and operational efficiency. The Chief Information Officer's leadership drives the digital transformation necessary for Fort Lewis College to remain competitive and responsive to evolving technological demands.

    Cheryl Heitz - Chief Financial & Operations Officer

    Cheryl Heitz, the Chief Financial & Operations Officer at Fort Lewis College, provides strategic leadership across critical financial and operational domains. Heitz oversees the integration of financial planning with operational execution, ensuring resources are aligned with institutional goals. This dual responsibility encompasses managing budgets, optimizing resource allocation, and enhancing operational efficiencies throughout the college. By driving synergy between finance and operations, Cheryl Heitz ensures that Fort Lewis College functions with maximum effectiveness and fiscal prudence. The Chief Financial & Operations Officer's guidance is instrumental in supporting the college's academic mission and long-term strategic objectives through sound financial management and streamlined operations.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Fort Lewis College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Fort Lewis College?
    Fort Lewis College is led by Lori Cook (Vice President of Advancement & Chief Executive Officer, FLC Foundation), along with executives such as Samantha Gallagher (Chief Financial Officer) and Steven Schwartz (Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Fort Lewis College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Fort Lewis College includes leaders such as Lori Cook (Vice President of Advancement & Chief Executive Officer, FLC Foundation), Samantha Gallagher (Chief Financial Officer), Steven Schwartz (Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Fort Lewis College have?
    Fort Lewis College has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Fort Lewis College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Fort Lewis College includes roles such as Vice President of Advancement & Chief Executive Officer, FLC Foundation, Chief Financial Officer, Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Operating Officer, President, President.