Washington State University Executive and Leadership Team

Kathryn Dahmen, the Chief Financial Officer at Washington State University, directs the fiscal strategy and budgetary planning for the entire institution. Dahmen oversees the allocation of research grants, tuition revenue, and state funding to support diverse academic programs. By implementing robust financial controls, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the long-term sustainability of the university's research initiatives. Kathryn Dahmen manages complex financial reporting requirements, providing transparency to the board and external stakeholders. This role involves analyzing economic trends to optimize resource distribution across various departments. Through careful management of capital expenditures, the Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary infrastructure for doctoral and professional degree programs. Dahmen maintains a focus on fiscal efficiency, allowing the university to expand its reach within the competitive landscape of public higher education. The Chief Financial Officer provides the financial foundation required for academic growth and innovation.

Rita Whitcomb, the Director, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer at Washington State University, manages the operational and financial health of specific administrative units. Whitcomb oversees procurement, facilities management, and budget oversight to ensure that daily operations support the university's research mission. By streamlining administrative workflows, the Director, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer reduces overhead costs and improves service delivery. Rita Whitcomb monitors financial performance across departments, providing data-driven insights to guide resource allocation. This role involves coordinating with internal teams to maintain compliance with university policies and state regulations. Through the optimization of administrative services, the Director, Administrative Services & Chief Financial Officer enhances the efficiency of the campus environment. Whitcomb drives initiatives that improve operational transparency, ensuring that financial resources are utilized effectively to support the diverse academic and professional programs offered by the institution.

Gerald Roslund, the President at Washington State University, provides the overarching vision and strategic direction for the entire public research institution. Roslund leads the university's efforts to expand its academic influence and research capabilities across the state and beyond. By engaging with government officials, donors, and community leaders, the President secures the resources necessary to advance the university's mission. Gerald Roslund oversees the implementation of long-term goals, ensuring that all colleges and departments remain aligned with the core values of excellence and innovation. This leadership role involves making critical decisions regarding faculty recruitment, student enrollment, and campus development. Through the promotion of interdisciplinary research, the President fosters an environment where doctoral and professional programs thrive. Roslund drives the university's commitment to public service, ensuring that the institution continues to provide high-quality education while addressing the complex challenges facing society today.

Daniel Lopez-Naranjo, the President at Washington State University, focuses on the expansion of the university's global research footprint and academic partnerships. Lopez-Naranjo leads initiatives to increase the university's international presence, attracting diverse talent to the institution's various degree programs. By fostering collaborations with industry leaders, the President ensures that the curriculum remains relevant to the needs of the modern workforce. Daniel Lopez-Naranjo oversees the development of new research centers that address critical societal issues, from technology to public health. This role involves managing the university's reputation and advocating for the importance of public research in the broader academic community. Through strategic investments in faculty development, the President enhances the quality of instruction across all campuses. Lopez-Naranjo drives the university's mission to provide accessible, high-impact education, ensuring that the institution remains a leader in innovation and student success on a global scale.

John Mancinelli, the WCEAP President-Elect at Washington State University, prepares to lead the association in advancing the interests of the university's professional and academic staff. Mancinelli coordinates with current leadership to identify key priorities for the upcoming term, focusing on professional development and workplace advocacy. By engaging with staff members across various departments, the WCEAP President-Elect gathers insights to inform future policy recommendations. John Mancinelli participates in strategic planning sessions that address the evolving needs of the university's workforce. This role involves representing staff interests in discussions with university administration to ensure that institutional policies support a productive and inclusive work environment. Through the development of training programs, the WCEAP President-Elect enhances the professional capabilities of the staff. Mancinelli drives efforts to strengthen the connection between staff contributions and the university's overall mission of research and educational excellence.

Brent Vernon, the Chief of Staff at Washington State University, coordinates high-level administrative initiatives to ensure alignment with institutional goals. Vernon manages complex workflows between the executive office and various academic departments, facilitating efficient communication across the university. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief of Staff supports the broader mission of providing high-quality research and education. Brent Vernon monitors operational performance metrics to identify areas for improvement, ensuring that resources remain focused on student outcomes. This leadership role requires constant collaboration with university stakeholders to address emerging challenges in the public research sector. Through rigorous oversight of administrative projects, the Chief of Staff maintains organizational stability. Vernon drives strategic planning efforts that enhance the university's reputation, ensuring that all departments operate in harmony with the long-term vision of the institution while maintaining fiscal responsibility and academic integrity.

Christopher Coons, the Director, Information Technology & Global Campus Acting Chief Information Officer at Washington State University, architects the digital infrastructure supporting remote and on-campus learning. Coons manages the integration of advanced educational technologies to facilitate seamless access to degree programs for students worldwide. By overseeing cybersecurity protocols and network reliability, the Director, Information Technology & Global Campus Acting Chief Information Officer ensures that digital assets remain protected. Christopher Coons leads initiatives to modernize classroom tools, enhancing the overall student experience through innovative software solutions. This role involves coordinating with academic leadership to align technology investments with the university's research objectives. Through the deployment of scalable cloud systems, the Director, Information Technology & Global Campus Acting Chief Information Officer supports the expansion of the Global Campus. Coons drives digital transformation efforts that maintain the university's competitive edge in the evolving landscape of higher education technology.

Danny Talbot, the Chief of Staff & Associate Professor at Washington State University, bridges the gap between administrative governance and academic instruction. Talbot manages faculty-led committees to ensure that institutional policies reflect the needs of the research community. As an Associate Professor, Danny Talbot contributes to the university's pedagogical mission while simultaneously overseeing executive operations. The Chief of Staff & Associate Professor coordinates cross-departmental projects that enhance the quality of professional and doctoral programs. By facilitating dialogue between the administration and the faculty, the Chief of Staff & Associate Professor fosters a collaborative environment conducive to academic excellence. Talbot monitors the implementation of strategic initiatives, ensuring that administrative decisions support the core research goals of the institution. Through this dual focus, the Chief of Staff & Associate Professor maintains a balance between operational efficiency and the scholarly pursuits that define the university's identity.

Brad Hutchins, the Deputy Director of Athletics, Chief Revenue Officer at Washington State University, drives the financial growth of the athletic department through strategic partnerships and marketing initiatives. Hutchins oversees revenue generation efforts, including ticket sales, corporate sponsorships, and donor relations. By maximizing the commercial potential of athletic programs, the Deputy Director of Athletics, Chief Revenue Officer provides essential funding for student-athlete support services. Brad Hutchins manages relationships with regional and national partners to expand the university's brand presence. This role involves analyzing market data to develop pricing strategies that increase attendance and engagement. Through the execution of high-impact promotional campaigns, the Deputy Director of Athletics, Chief Revenue Officer ensures that athletic operations remain financially viable. Hutchins aligns athletic revenue goals with the broader institutional mission, contributing to the overall success and visibility of the university in the competitive collegiate sports landscape.

Coryelle Scott, the Team Captain at Washington State University, leads internal project groups focused on enhancing student engagement and campus culture. Scott coordinates team efforts to implement initiatives that support the university's mission of fostering a vibrant academic community. By facilitating communication between student leaders and administrative staff, the Team Captain ensures that student perspectives inform institutional decision-making. Coryelle Scott manages the execution of campus-wide events that promote academic and professional development. This role involves mentoring team members to build leadership skills and encourage active participation in university life. Through the organization of collaborative projects, the Team Captain drives improvements in student services and campus facilities. Scott maintains a focus on inclusivity and excellence, ensuring that all team activities align with the broader goals of the university. The Team Captain plays a vital role in building a supportive environment for all students.