Gallaudet University Executive and Leadership Team

Angela McCaskill, the Deputy To the President and Associate Provost for Diversity at Gallaudet University, champions initiatives that foster an inclusive and equitable campus environment. McCaskill leads efforts to integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion principles throughout the university's academic programs, student services, and administrative operations. This involves developing strategies that support deaf culture and American Sign Language as central components of campus life, aligning with Gallaudet's mission. The Associate Provost for Diversity works closely with university leadership to ensure that all students, faculty, and staff experience a welcoming and supportive community. Angela McCaskill's role is pivotal in advancing the university's commitment to serving deaf and hard of hearing students by promoting understanding and respect for diverse backgrounds and experiences. This leadership position drives the creation of policies and programs that enhance belonging and ensure equal opportunity for all members of the Gallaudet community.

Patricia Beech, the President at Gallaudet University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the institution. Beech guides the university's commitment to delivering comprehensive higher education tailored for deaf and hard of hearing students, ensuring that deaf culture and American Sign Language remain integral to the academic and campus experience. This executive role involves setting institutional priorities, fostering academic excellence, and overseeing the university's financial health and operational integrity. The President works to advance Gallaudet's mission through strategic partnerships and resource development, enhancing the university's national and international standing. Patricia Beech's leadership focuses on creating an environment that empowers deaf learners, promotes research in deaf studies, and supports the development of future leaders within the deaf community. Beech directs all major university functions, ensuring alignment with the specialized educational needs of its student population.

Roberta Cordano, the President at Gallaudet University, directs the institution's strategic vision and operational execution, upholding its unique mission. Cordano leads Gallaudet University in its dedication to providing specialized higher education for deaf and hard of hearing students, ensuring that deaf culture and American Sign Language are central to all academic and campus activities. This executive position involves guiding curriculum development, faculty advancement, and student support services to meet the distinct communication and learning needs of the student body. Roberta Cordano's leadership emphasizes fostering an environment of academic rigor, innovation, and inclusivity. The President works to expand research opportunities, strengthen community partnerships, and advocate for the rights and needs of deaf individuals globally. Cordano's tenure focuses on enhancing the university's role as a premier institution for deaf education and a vibrant intellectual hub.

Julie Bourne, the President's Fellow at Gallaudet University, supports the President in advancing key institutional priorities and special projects. Bourne contributes to strategic planning and implementation, focusing on initiatives that enhance the university's educational offerings and operational effectiveness for deaf and hard of hearing students. This role involves research, analysis, and the development of proposals aimed at strengthening Gallaudet's academic programs and campus life, which are centered around deaf culture and American Sign Language. Julie Bourne collaborates with various university departments to ensure projects align with the institution's mission and values. The President's Fellow plays a crucial part in exploring new opportunities for growth and innovation within the specialized higher education landscape Gallaudet occupies. Bourne's work directly supports the President's efforts to maintain Gallaudet's position as a leading institution for deaf learners.

Senda Benaissa, the Deputy President, To The For International & Special Projects at Gallaudet University, spearheads global initiatives and unique development ventures. Benaissa directs the university's engagement with international partners and oversees the execution of specialized projects designed to expand Gallaudet's reach and impact beyond its immediate campus community. This leadership role is critical in fostering collaborations that enhance academic exchange and research opportunities for deaf and hard of hearing students worldwide. Senda Benaissa works to integrate deaf culture and American Sign Language into international educational dialogues, reinforcing Gallaudet's unique position. The Deputy President is responsible for identifying and developing new avenues for institutional growth and influence, ensuring that Gallaudet University remains at the forefront of deaf education globally. Benaissa's focus on international and special projects drives the university's mission forward on a global scale.

Heather Harker, the Chief of Staff at Gallaudet University, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across university departments. Harker ensures that administrative functions support the institution's core mission of providing specialized higher education for deaf and hard of hearing students. This role involves close collaboration with other senior leaders to implement policies and manage key projects that enhance the learning environment and student experience. Overseeing critical internal operations, Heather Harker drives efficiency and effectiveness in administrative processes, directly contributing to the university's ability to serve its unique student population. The Chief of Staff role requires a deep understanding of Gallaudet's commitment to deaf culture and American Sign Language, ensuring all institutional efforts reflect these foundational principles. Harker's leadership focuses on optimizing resource allocation and streamlining communication channels to support academic and student development programs.