Gonzaga University Executive and Leadership Team

Shannon Strahl, the Deputy Director of Athletics, Chief Operating Officer at Gonzaga University, manages the fiscal and operational health of the athletic department. Overseeing large-scale athletic programs, Strahl ensures that all sports teams operate within budgetary constraints while maintaining high standards of competitive excellence. This leadership position involves managing facility logistics and coordinating with external partners to expand the reach of the university's athletic brand across North American markets. Shannon Strahl directs the strategic planning for athletic infrastructure, ensuring that student-athletes receive top-tier support services. By analyzing performance metrics and operational data, Strahl identifies opportunities for revenue growth and efficiency improvements. The Chief Operating Officer also collaborates with university leadership to integrate athletic success with the institution's academic mission. Through meticulous management of resources and personnel, Strahl secures the long-term viability of the athletic department, ultimately strengthening the university's national profile and community engagement efforts.

Allisandra Kuni, the Co-President, Women's Law Caucus at Gonzaga University, leads initiatives focused on professional development and advocacy within the legal studies community. By organizing networking events and mentorship programs, Kuni facilitates connections between law students and established legal professionals. This leadership role involves managing the caucus budget and coordinating outreach efforts to promote gender equity in the legal field. Allisandra Kuni drives the strategic direction of the organization, ensuring that all activities align with the university's commitment to social justice and academic rigor. Through the development of educational workshops and guest speaker series, Kuni enhances the practical skills of caucus members. The Co-President also collaborates with faculty advisors to address systemic challenges within the legal profession. By fostering an inclusive environment, Kuni empowers students to pursue impactful careers in law, thereby contributing to the university's reputation for producing socially conscious and highly skilled legal practitioners.

Jessica Morales, the President of Residence Hall Association at Gonzaga University, oversees the governance and programming for the residential student community. By representing student interests to the university administration, Morales ensures that living environments remain conducive to academic success and personal growth. This role involves managing the association's budget and coordinating social events that foster a sense of belonging among residents. Jessica Morales directs the planning of community-building initiatives, ensuring that all residence halls maintain a safe and inclusive atmosphere. Through active engagement with student leaders, Morales addresses concerns regarding campus housing and facilities. The President also collaborates with the office of housing and residence life to implement policies that improve the student experience. By driving these efforts, Morales enhances the quality of campus life, ensuring that the residential experience reflects the core values of the university and supports the holistic development of every student.

Kendon Wray, the President at Gonzaga University, provides executive leadership for the institution's academic and administrative functions. By setting the strategic vision for the university, Wray ensures that all departments remain focused on the core mission of Jesuit education and liberal arts excellence. This role involves managing relationships with the Board of Trustees and external stakeholders to secure the financial and reputational future of the institution. Kendon Wray directs the implementation of long-term growth strategies, including the expansion of academic programs and the enhancement of campus facilities. Through the oversight of senior leadership, Wray maintains institutional integrity and academic standards. The President also champions initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across the university community. By driving these strategic priorities, Wray ensures that the institution continues to thrive as a nationally ranked center for learning, preparing students for meaningful contributions to society and the global workforce.

Caitlin Mackenzie, the President at Gonzaga University, leads the strategic development of specific academic and student-focused initiatives. By overseeing the execution of institutional goals, Mackenzie ensures that the university maintains its commitment to high-quality education and community service. This leadership role involves coordinating with faculty and staff to refine academic programs and improve student outcomes. Caitlin Mackenzie directs the allocation of resources to support research and experiential learning opportunities. Through the management of key partnerships, Mackenzie expands the university's influence within the regional and national academic landscape. The President also monitors the effectiveness of institutional policies, making adjustments to ensure alignment with the evolving needs of the student body. By driving these operational improvements, Mackenzie fosters an environment of innovation and excellence, ensuring that the university remains a leader in higher education and continues to fulfill its mission of educating the whole person.

Savannah Porteus, the Club Water Polo Founder and President at Gonzaga University, manages the establishment and ongoing operations of the university's water polo program. By securing funding and organizing practice schedules, Porteus ensures that student-athletes have the resources necessary to compete at a high level. This role involves coordinating with university recreation departments to manage facility access and safety compliance. Savannah Porteus directs the recruitment of new members and the development of training programs that emphasize both athletic skill and team cohesion. Through the management of club finances and travel logistics, Porteus facilitates participation in regional competitions. The President also serves as the primary liaison between the club and the university administration, advocating for the needs of the team. By driving the growth of this athletic organization, Porteus contributes to the diversity of extracurricular opportunities available to students, enhancing the overall campus experience.

Carlo Cortez, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Club President at Gonzaga University, leads the organization in promoting technical excellence and professional development for engineering students. By coordinating workshops and technical projects, Cortez provides members with hands-on experience in electrical and electronics engineering. This leadership role involves managing the club's budget and organizing events that connect students with industry professionals. Carlo Cortez directs the strategic planning of club activities, ensuring that all projects align with current technological trends and academic requirements. Through the facilitation of collaborative research and design efforts, Cortez enhances the practical skills of the student body. The President also collaborates with the engineering faculty to ensure that club initiatives complement the formal curriculum. By driving these professional development opportunities, Cortez prepares students for successful careers in the engineering sector, thereby strengthening the university's reputation for technical innovation and academic rigor.

Marissa Encarnacion, the President, Underwater Autonomous Vehicle Team (Auv) at Gonzaga University, oversees the design, construction, and testing of autonomous underwater systems. By managing the technical team and project timelines, Encarnacion ensures that the team meets the rigorous requirements of international robotics competitions. This role involves securing sponsorships and managing the team's budget to acquire necessary hardware and software components. Marissa Encarnacion directs the research and development efforts, fostering a collaborative environment where students apply engineering principles to solve complex underwater navigation challenges. Through the coordination of testing sessions and performance evaluations, Encarnacion optimizes the functionality of the autonomous vehicles. The President also serves as the primary contact for university departments and external partners, promoting the team's achievements. By driving these technical projects, Encarnacion enhances the practical engineering capabilities of the team members, contributing to the university's standing in the field of robotics and autonomous systems.

Katia Passerini, the President at Gonzaga University, provides high-level strategic direction for the institution's academic and research enterprises. By overseeing the integration of technology and pedagogy, Passerini ensures that the university remains at the forefront of modern educational practices. This leadership role involves managing complex institutional budgets and fostering partnerships with global academic and industry leaders. Katia Passerini directs the development of new academic programs that address the evolving demands of the global economy. Through the oversight of faculty research and student success initiatives, Passerini maintains the university's commitment to academic excellence. The President also collaborates with the Board of Trustees to define the long-term strategic goals of the institution. By driving these initiatives, Passerini strengthens the university's competitive position, ensuring that the institution continues to provide a transformative education that prepares students for leadership in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

Jenn Crowder, the Student AffairsAdministration and Operations Officer (Chief of Staff) at Gonzaga University, directs the daily operational workflows within the student services division. By managing complex administrative processes, Crowder ensures that university resources align with the broader mission of supporting student development and campus engagement. This role involves coordinating cross-departmental initiatives to streamline service delivery across the Spokane campus. Jenn Crowder maintains rigorous oversight of internal policies, facilitating communication between student affairs leadership and the broader university administration. Through the optimization of operational frameworks, Crowder enhances the efficiency of student-facing programs. The Chief of Staff also monitors institutional compliance and resource allocation, ensuring that all student affairs activities remain consistent with the Jesuit identity of the institution. By driving these administrative improvements, Crowder supports the overall success of the student body and the long-term stability of the university's support infrastructure.