Gonzaga University Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Gonzaga University has 9 executives leading key functions including student affairs, engineering leadership, legal advocacy, institutional strategy, and residential life.

Rooted in Jesuit traditions, Gonzaga University advances academic excellence and holistic development through a comprehensive liberal-arts curriculum that prepares students for global impact.

Leadership Roles at Gonzaga University

  • Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Club President - Carlo Cortez
  • Co-President, Women's Law Caucus - Allisandra Kuni
  • President - Katia Passerini
  • President - Kendon Wray
  • President of Residence Hall Association - Jessica Morales
  • President of the Iota Delta Chapter - Samuel Fleetwood
  • President, Underwater Autonomous Vehicle Team (Auv) - Marissa Encarnacion
  • President - Caitlin Mackenzie
  • Student AffairsAdministration and Operations Officer (Chief of Staff) - Jenn Crowder
  • Carlo Cortez - Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Club President

    Carlo Cortez, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Club President at Gonzaga University, architects technical development programs for engineering students. Overseeing the club's project portfolio, the President drives innovation in electrical systems and hardware design. This leadership role involves managing collaborative research efforts that bridge the gap between theoretical coursework and practical industry applications. By facilitating partnerships with regional technology firms, Carlo Cortez expands professional networking opportunities for members. The President coordinates technical workshops and seminars that sharpen the engineering skills of the student cohort. Through the management of laboratory resources and project funding, the President ensures that the club maintains a competitive edge in national engineering competitions. This position requires constant alignment with the university's commitment to academic rigor and technical excellence. Ultimately, the President fosters a culture of inquiry and hands-on problem solving that prepares students for successful careers in the global technology sector.

    Allisandra Kuni - Co-President, Women's Law Caucus

    Allisandra Kuni, the Co-President, Women's Law Caucus at Gonzaga University, directs advocacy initiatives that promote gender equity within the legal profession. Overseeing the caucus's strategic outreach, the Co-President organizes professional development events and mentorship programs for law students. This leadership role involves collaborating with faculty and legal practitioners to address systemic challenges in the justice system. By facilitating discussions on legal ethics and social responsibility, Allisandra Kuni strengthens the caucus's influence on campus and within the broader legal community. The Co-President manages the allocation of resources to support student-led research and community service projects. Through the execution of networking forums, the Co-President connects aspiring attorneys with established leaders in the field. This position requires a deep commitment to the Jesuit values of service and justice. Ultimately, the Co-President ensures that the caucus remains a powerful platform for empowering women to pursue leadership roles in law.

    Katia Passerini - President

    Katia Passerini, the President at Gonzaga University, architects the long-term strategic vision for this nationally ranked, Jesuit institution. Overseeing the university's academic and administrative functions, the President drives initiatives that enhance the institution's reputation for liberal-arts excellence. This leadership role involves engaging with the Board of Trustees to secure financial stability and promote campus growth. By fostering partnerships with global academic organizations, Katia Passerini expands the university's reach and influence. The President monitors institutional performance to ensure alignment with the core mission of Catholic education. Through the management of executive leadership teams, the President coordinates efforts to improve student outcomes and faculty research productivity. This position requires a focus on sustainable development and the preservation of the university's unique cultural heritage. Ultimately, the President secures the future of the institution by championing innovation in teaching and learning while maintaining a steadfast commitment to the Jesuit tradition of service.
    Katia Passerini

    Kendon Wray - President

    Kendon Wray, the President at Gonzaga University, directs the operational strategy for specific campus initiatives that support the university's comprehensive liberal-arts mission. Overseeing the implementation of academic policies, the President ensures that institutional goals remain consistent with Jesuit values. This leadership role involves managing stakeholder relationships to foster a collaborative environment across various departments. By analyzing market trends in higher education, Kendon Wray identifies opportunities for program expansion and student recruitment. The President coordinates with faculty leaders to maintain high standards of instruction and research. Through the oversight of campus resources, the President optimizes the delivery of educational services to a diverse student population. This position requires a dedication to fostering an inclusive community that values intellectual curiosity and social justice. Ultimately, the President drives the university's commitment to producing graduates who contribute meaningfully to society through ethical leadership and professional excellence.

    Jessica Morales - President of Residence Hall Association

    Jessica Morales, the President of Residence Hall Association at Gonzaga University, directs the governance and programming efforts for the residential student community. Overseeing the association's budget and event planning, the President ensures that living environments support the academic and social needs of students. This leadership role involves acting as a liaison between residents and university housing administration to address facility concerns and policy improvements. By facilitating community-building activities, Jessica Morales fosters a sense of belonging among the student body. The President coordinates with other student organizations to promote campus-wide engagement and inclusivity. Through the management of hall councils, the President empowers student leaders to advocate for their peers. This position requires a focus on creating a safe and supportive living experience that aligns with the university's Jesuit mission. Ultimately, the President enhances the overall student experience by cultivating a vibrant and responsive residential culture.
    Jessica Morales

    Samuel Fleetwood - President of the Iota Delta Chapter

    Samuel Fleetwood, the President of the Iota Delta Chapter at Gonzaga University, directs the organizational activities and membership development for this specific student group. Overseeing the chapter's adherence to university policies, the President ensures that all activities reflect the institution's commitment to ethical conduct and community service. This leadership role involves managing internal communications and coordinating philanthropic events that benefit the local community. By fostering a culture of accountability, Samuel Fleetwood strengthens the chapter's reputation on campus. The President collaborates with national organizational representatives to align local operations with broader strategic goals. Through the execution of leadership training programs, the President prepares members for future professional responsibilities. This position requires a focus on maintaining high standards of conduct and academic performance. Ultimately, the President drives the chapter's success by promoting values-based leadership and active participation in the university's vibrant campus life.

    Marissa Encarnacion - President, Underwater Autonomous Vehicle Team (Auv)

    Marissa Encarnacion, the President, Underwater Autonomous Vehicle Team (Auv) at Gonzaga University, architects the technical and operational strategy for the team's research and competition efforts. Overseeing the design and testing of autonomous systems, the President drives innovation in marine robotics. This leadership role involves managing the team's engineering projects and ensuring that all technical milestones meet rigorous performance standards. By coordinating with faculty advisors and industry sponsors, Marissa Encarnacion secures the resources necessary for advanced research. The President facilitates collaborative problem-solving sessions that enhance the technical proficiency of team members. Through the management of project timelines and safety protocols, the President ensures the successful execution of complex underwater missions. This position requires a deep understanding of robotics and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of current technology. Ultimately, the President leads the team to achieve excellence in national competitions while advancing the university's reputation in engineering.

    Caitlin Mackenzie - President

    Caitlin Mackenzie, the President at Gonzaga University, directs the strategic initiatives that support the university's mission of providing a comprehensive, Jesuit-based education. Overseeing the alignment of academic programs with current market demands, the President ensures that the institution remains a leader in liberal-arts education. This leadership role involves managing relationships with alumni and donors to support the university's long-term financial health. By fostering an environment of academic excellence, Caitlin Mackenzie encourages faculty and students to engage in impactful research and community service. The President coordinates with administrative leaders to optimize campus operations and student support services. Through the execution of strategic planning, the President addresses the evolving needs of the student body and the broader community. This position requires a focus on maintaining the university's core values while adapting to the challenges of the modern educational landscape. Ultimately, the President drives the institution's growth and commitment to excellence.

    Jenn Crowder - Student AffairsAdministration and Operations Officer (Chief of Staff)

    Jenn Crowder, the Student AffairsAdministration and Operations Officer (Chief of Staff) at Gonzaga University, directs the daily operational workflows within the division of student life. Managing complex administrative processes, the Chief of Staff ensures that university resources align with the Jesuit mission of holistic student support. This role involves coordinating cross-departmental initiatives that enhance campus engagement and student well-being across the Pacific Northwest region. By streamlining communication between student affairs leadership and the broader university administration, Jenn Crowder optimizes service delivery for the entire student body. The Chief of Staff monitors institutional performance metrics to drive continuous improvement in campus programming. Through rigorous oversight of operational budgets and policy implementation, the Chief of Staff maintains the high standards expected of a nationally ranked institution. This leadership position remains vital for fostering an inclusive environment that supports the academic and personal growth of every student.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Gonzaga University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Gonzaga University?
    Gonzaga University is led by Carlo Cortez (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Club President), along with executives such as Allisandra Kuni (Co-President, Women's Law Caucus) and Katia Passerini (President).
    Who is part of Gonzaga University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Gonzaga University includes leaders such as Carlo Cortez (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Club President), Allisandra Kuni (Co-President, Women's Law Caucus), Katia Passerini (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Gonzaga University have?
    Gonzaga University has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Gonzaga University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Gonzaga University includes roles such as Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Club President, Co-President, Women's Law Caucus, President, President, President of Residence Hall Association.