Washington State University Executive and Leadership Team

Elizabeth Cantwell, the System President & Chief Executive Officer at Washington State University, directs the overarching strategy and executive leadership for the entire university system. Cantwell guides institutional growth and ensures alignment with the university's mission of research, education, and public service. This leadership role involves setting strategic priorities, fostering academic excellence, and driving operational efficiency across all campuses. Overseeing the university's financial health and long-term sustainability, Elizabeth Cantwell ensures robust resource allocation to support educational and research initiatives. The System President & Chief Executive Officer also champions the university's engagement with external stakeholders, including government bodies, industry partners, and alumni, solidifying Washington State University's position as a leading public research institution.

Kathryn Dahmen, the Chief Financial Officer at Washington State University, manages the institution's comprehensive financial operations and fiscal strategy. Dahmen oversees budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and treasury functions, ensuring the university's financial stability and responsible resource management. This critical role involves developing financial policies, optimizing revenue streams, and controlling expenditures to support academic and research endeavors. Kathryn Dahmen also plays a key part in securing funding through grants, investments, and state appropriations, directly impacting the university's capacity for growth and innovation. The Chief Financial Officer provides essential financial oversight, enabling Washington State University to achieve its educational and research objectives while maintaining fiscal integrity across its diverse operations.

Rita Whitcomb, the Director, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer at Washington State University, oversees a broad spectrum of administrative functions and financial management for specific university divisions. Whitcomb directs services including human resources, procurement, and budget administration, ensuring operational efficiency and compliance with university policies. This role involves providing strategic financial guidance, managing departmental budgets, and optimizing resource allocation to support institutional goals. Rita Whitcomb also plays a key part in developing and implementing administrative policies that enhance operational effectiveness and fiscal responsibility. The Director, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer ensures that administrative and financial operations are robust and aligned with the university's mission, contributing to its sustained success.

Michael Uy, the Chief Operating Officer at Washington State University, directs the university's extensive operational infrastructure and administrative services. Uy oversees facilities management, campus safety, auxiliary services, and information technology infrastructure, ensuring efficient and effective support for the academic mission. This leadership position involves optimizing resource allocation, implementing operational improvements, and managing large-scale projects to enhance campus functionality and student experience. Michael Uy also drives initiatives focused on sustainability and operational excellence across all university sites. The Chief Operating Officer ensures that the physical and administrative backbone of Washington State University effectively supports teaching, research, and community engagement, contributing to the institution's overall success and growth.

Gregory Pearce, the President at Washington State University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the institution. Pearce guides the university's mission, fostering an environment of academic excellence, research innovation, and community engagement. This role involves overseeing all aspects of university operations, including academic affairs, student life, and external relations, ensuring alignment with the university's long-term vision. Gregory Pearce champions the university's commitment to its students and faculty, driving initiatives that enhance educational quality and research impact. The President serves as the primary representative of Washington State University, engaging with stakeholders to advance the institution's standing and influence in higher education and beyond.

Zachary Harper, the Chief of Staff at Washington State University, provides direct support to senior leadership, managing strategic initiatives and operational coordination. Harper facilitates communication and collaboration across various university departments, ensuring efficient execution of presidential priorities. This role involves overseeing special projects, analyzing complex issues, and developing recommendations for executive decision-making. Zachary Harper also manages key administrative functions, streamlining processes and enhancing organizational effectiveness. The Chief of Staff acts as a central point of contact for critical matters, driving forward the university's agenda and ensuring seamless operations. Harper's efforts contribute significantly to the strategic advancement and day-to-day functioning of Washington State University.

Kristina Peterson-Wilson, the Vice Provost, Academic Administration & Chief of Staff at Washington State University, oversees critical academic policies and administrative functions. Peterson-Wilson manages the implementation of academic programs, faculty support services, and curriculum development processes, ensuring adherence to university standards and strategic goals. This dual role involves providing high-level strategic counsel and operational management to support the Provost's office and broader academic leadership. Kristina Peterson-Wilson also coordinates key initiatives related to academic planning, faculty recruitment, and student success. The Vice Provost, Academic Administration & Chief of Staff ensures the integrity and effectiveness of academic operations, contributing to Washington State University's reputation for educational excellence and scholarly achievement.

Christopher Coons, the Director, Information Technology & Global Campus Acting Chief Information Officer at Washington State University, leads the strategic direction and operational execution of the university's IT services, particularly for its Global Campus. Coons oversees the development and implementation of technology solutions that support online learning, administrative systems, and research computing. This role involves ensuring robust cybersecurity measures, managing IT infrastructure, and driving innovation in educational technology to enhance the online student experience. Christopher Coons also collaborates with academic departments to provide tailored technology support and resources. The Director, Information Technology & Global Campus Acting Chief Information Officer is pivotal in leveraging technology to expand access to WSU's educational offerings and maintain a high standard of digital learning.

Daniel Van De Riet, the Chief of Staff - Football at Washington State University, manages the strategic operations and administrative functions for the university's football program. Van De Riet ensures seamless coordination of team logistics, player support services, and program development initiatives. This role involves working closely with coaching staff, athletic directors, and university administration to optimize the program's performance and student-athlete welfare. Daniel Van De Riet oversees critical aspects of program management, including scheduling, budget oversight, and compliance with NCAA regulations. The Chief of Staff - Football plays an integral part in supporting the success of the WSU football team, both on and off the field, contributing to the overall athletic and academic mission of the university.

Michael Stamper, the Chief Information Officer, Campus at Washington State University, directs the comprehensive information technology strategy and operations for the main campus. Stamper oversees the deployment of critical IT infrastructure, including networks, data centers, and end-user support services, ensuring reliable technology access for students, faculty, and staff. This leadership position involves driving digital transformation initiatives, enhancing cybersecurity defenses, and implementing innovative technological solutions to support academic and research excellence. Michael Stamper also manages IT budgets, vendor relationships, and IT project portfolios, aligning technology investments with university objectives. The Chief Information Officer, Campus is essential in providing the technological foundation that underpins Washington State University's educational and administrative functions.