Fort Lewis College Executive and Leadership Team

Samantha Gallagher, the Chief Financial Officer at Fort Lewis College, directs all fiscal operations and financial strategy. Gallagher oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring the college's economic stability and growth. This leadership role involves managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining compliance with financial regulations. By analyzing financial data, Samantha Gallagher provides critical insights to support institutional decision-making and long-term sustainability. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to managing endowments and capital expenditures, directly impacting the college's ability to fund academic programs and infrastructure development. Gallagher ensures transparent financial reporting to stakeholders and the board, upholding the highest standards of fiscal responsibility.

Steven Schwartz, the Vice President, Finance Administration & Chief Operating Officer at Fort Lewis College, orchestrates the institution's operational framework and administrative functions. Schwartz directs campus operations, facilities management, and administrative services, ensuring efficient resource utilization and a conducive learning environment. This executive role encompasses strategic planning for operational scalability and the implementation of best practices across departments. By overseeing daily operations, Steven Schwartz ensures seamless service delivery to students, faculty, and staff. The Chief Operating Officer's purview includes managing budgets for administrative units, optimizing procurement processes, and driving efficiency initiatives. Schwartz collaborates with other leaders to align operational capabilities with the college's academic mission and strategic objectives, thereby enhancing the overall student experience and institutional effectiveness.

Heather Shotton, the President at Fort Lewis College, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Shotton guides academic excellence, institutional development, and community engagement, setting the vision for the college's future. This executive role involves fostering a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and student success across all departments. By leading the executive team, Heather Shotton ensures alignment with the college's mission and strategic priorities. The President's responsibilities include representing the college to external stakeholders, securing funding, and championing educational initiatives. Shotton's leadership drives the college's commitment to providing a high-quality liberal arts education and preparing graduates for meaningful contributions to society.

Teanna Banks, the President at Fort Lewis College, directs the strategic vision and comprehensive operations of the academic institution. Banks oversees all facets of college administration, academic programming, and student affairs, ensuring alignment with institutional goals. This leadership position involves fostering an environment conducive to learning, research, and community development. By guiding the executive team, Teanna Banks ensures the effective implementation of strategic initiatives and operational efficiencies. The President's responsibilities include advocating for the college's interests, managing key relationships with constituents, and driving institutional growth. Banks's commitment to educational excellence shapes the college's trajectory and its impact on students and the broader community.

Isabelle Shepard, the President at Fort Lewis College, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the institution's academic and administrative endeavors. Shepard guides the college's mission, fostering an environment of academic rigor and student-centered learning. This critical role involves overseeing all institutional operations, including faculty development, curriculum enhancement, and campus life. By leading the senior leadership team, Isabelle Shepard ensures cohesive execution of strategic plans and institutional objectives. The President's responsibilities encompass external relations, fundraising, and championing the college's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Shepard's vision propels Fort Lewis College forward, reinforcing its position as a leading liberal arts institution.

Dene Thomas, the President at Fort Lewis College, directs the strategic planning and overall administration of the educational institution. Thomas oversees academic affairs, student services, and operational management, ensuring the college fulfills its mission. This leadership role involves fostering a vibrant campus community and promoting academic excellence. By guiding the college's direction, Dene Thomas ensures that resources are effectively allocated to support student success and faculty development. The President's responsibilities include external representation, partnership development, and advancing the college's reputation. Thomas's leadership cultivates an environment of innovation and continuous improvement, strengthening Fort Lewis College's educational offerings.

James Bodine, the IT Chief Information Officer & Director at Fort Lewis College, spearheads the institution's technology strategy and digital infrastructure. Bodine directs the development and implementation of information systems, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures and seamless technological support for academic and administrative functions. This leadership position involves overseeing network operations, data management, and the integration of innovative technologies to enhance learning and research. By managing the IT department, James Bodine ensures that technological resources align with the college's educational goals and operational needs. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include leading digital transformation initiatives, managing IT budgets, and fostering a culture of technological advancement. Bodine's strategic vision drives the college's digital presence and operational efficiency, supporting a modern educational experience.

Cheryl Heitz, the Chief Financial & Operations Officer at Fort Lewis College, manages the institution's financial health and operational efficiency. Heitz oversees budgeting, financial reporting, and resource management, ensuring fiscal sustainability and effective resource allocation. This executive role encompasses directing campus operations, facilities, and administrative services to support the college's academic mission. By integrating financial and operational strategies, Cheryl Heitz optimizes institutional performance and enhances service delivery. The Chief Financial & Operations Officer's responsibilities include developing financial models, managing capital projects, and implementing operational improvements. Heitz's leadership ensures that the college operates effectively and maintains a strong financial foundation for future growth and academic achievement.