Western Washington University Executive and Leadership Team

Edward Rutschman, the Chief Executive Officer at Western Washington University, directs the overarching strategic vision for this public, masters-granting institution. By aligning academic priorities with long-term financial sustainability, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the university maintains a competitive edge within the Pacific Northwest higher education landscape. Edward Rutschman oversees the integration of administrative functions to support faculty research and student development initiatives. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine institutional policies and expand the university's regional impact. Through the optimization of resource allocation, the Chief Executive Officer drives operational efficiency across all departments. By prioritizing inclusive excellence and academic rigor, the Chief Executive Officer secures the future of the institution. Ultimately, Rutschman strengthens the university's reputation as a premier center for learning and innovation, ensuring that all strategic objectives meet the evolving needs of the student body and the broader community.

James Scott, the President at Western Washington University, leads the academic and administrative direction of this public institution. By championing research initiatives and student-centered learning, the President drives the university's commitment to excellence in the Pacific Northwest. James Scott oversees the implementation of academic policies that enhance the quality of masters-granting programs. This leadership role involves engaging with faculty, staff, and community partners to advance the university's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. By fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity, the President ensures that the institution remains responsive to the needs of the region. Through the strategic management of academic resources, the President supports the growth of diverse programs and research opportunities. Ultimately, Scott shapes the long-term trajectory of the university, ensuring that every initiative contributes to the success of the student body and the advancement of knowledge within the broader academic community.

Greg Roberts, the President, Club at Western Washington University, directs the activities and strategic development of student-led organizations. By overseeing the integration of extracurricular programs with the university's academic mission, the President, Club ensures that students gain valuable leadership experience. Greg Roberts manages the allocation of resources to support diverse club initiatives that enrich the campus culture in the Pacific Northwest. This role involves collaborating with student government and administrative departments to foster a vibrant, inclusive community. By providing guidance to student leaders, the President, Club enhances the overall student experience and promotes active engagement across the university. Through the development of policies that govern club operations, the President, Club maintains high standards of accountability and participation. Ultimately, Roberts empowers students to take initiative, ensuring that the university remains a dynamic environment where personal growth and academic success go hand in hand.

Ebubechukwu Okotcha, the President & Provost, Office & Clerk at Western Washington University, oversees the academic integrity and administrative governance of the institution. By directing faculty recruitment and curriculum development, the President & Provost, Office & Clerk ensures that the university maintains its status as a leading masters-granting institution in the Pacific Northwest. Ebubechukwu Okotcha manages the complex intersection of academic policy and administrative compliance, ensuring that all institutional processes align with educational standards. This role involves working closely with department heads to foster research excellence and student achievement. By streamlining the administrative functions of the office, the President & Provost, Office & Clerk enhances the efficiency of academic operations. Through the careful oversight of institutional records and governance, the President & Provost, Office & Clerk supports the university's long-term strategic goals. Ultimately, Okotcha ensures that the academic mission remains the central focus of all administrative activities.

Laura Rasmussen, the WFSE Local 1381 President at Western Washington University, represents the interests of staff members to ensure fair labor practices and professional development. By advocating for the needs of the workforce, the WFSE Local 1381 President contributes to the overall stability and productivity of the university. Laura Rasmussen oversees the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements and addresses workplace concerns to maintain a positive environment in the Pacific Northwest. This role involves collaborating with university administration to align staff support with the institution's broader mission. By fostering open communication between employees and leadership, the WFSE Local 1381 President enhances organizational morale and operational efficiency. Through the promotion of professional growth opportunities, the WFSE Local 1381 President ensures that staff members remain equipped to support the university's academic goals. Ultimately, Rasmussen strengthens the partnership between the workforce and the institution, ensuring that all employees contribute effectively to the university's success.

Jennifer Bensen, the Household Coordinator for the President at Western Washington University, manages the logistical and operational requirements of the presidential residence. By ensuring that the residence functions as a professional space for university events and community engagement, the Household Coordinator for the President supports the institution's public-facing mission. Jennifer Bensen oversees the maintenance, scheduling, and hospitality services required to host academic and community leaders in the Pacific Northwest. This role involves coordinating with university staff to ensure that all events align with the institution's standards of excellence. By managing the daily operations of the residence, the Household Coordinator for the President allows the leadership team to focus on strategic initiatives. Through the meticulous attention to detail, the Household Coordinator for the President enhances the university's ability to foster meaningful connections with stakeholders. Ultimately, Bensen provides the essential support necessary for the president to represent the university effectively.

W. Shepard, the President at Western Washington University, guides the strategic direction of the institution to ensure continued academic growth. By overseeing the development of masters-granting programs, the President strengthens the university's position as a key educational provider in the Pacific Northwest. W. Shepard manages the allocation of institutional funds to support research and student services, ensuring that resources align with the university's core mission. This leadership role involves collaborating with the Board to set long-term goals and address the evolving needs of the student body. By fostering partnerships with regional industries, the President enhances the university's impact on the local economy. Through the implementation of rigorous academic standards, the President ensures that the institution remains a center for intellectual inquiry. Ultimately, Shepard drives the university's commitment to excellence, ensuring that all strategic decisions support the success of students and the advancement of the institution's reputation.

Bruce Shepard, the President at Western Washington University, directs the institutional strategy to promote academic excellence and community engagement. By overseeing the expansion of masters-granting programs, the President ensures that the university meets the educational demands of the Pacific Northwest. Bruce Shepard manages the integration of research and teaching to provide students with a comprehensive learning experience. This leadership role involves engaging with stakeholders to secure the resources necessary for institutional growth and innovation. By prioritizing student success and faculty development, the President fosters a culture of academic rigor. Through the strategic management of university operations, the President supports the achievement of long-term institutional goals. Ultimately, Shepard shapes the university's identity as a public institution dedicated to the public good, ensuring that all initiatives contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the success of the student body within the broader academic landscape.

Tony Kurtz, the President at Western Washington University, leads the strategic initiatives that define the university's role in the Pacific Northwest. By overseeing the development of academic programs, the President ensures that the institution remains a leader in masters-granting education. Tony Kurtz manages the alignment of institutional resources with the university's mission to provide high-quality, accessible learning opportunities. This leadership role involves collaborating with faculty and staff to drive innovation in research and student support services. By fostering a collaborative environment, the President enhances the university's ability to address regional challenges and contribute to community development. Through the strategic oversight of academic and administrative functions, the President ensures that the institution maintains its commitment to excellence. Ultimately, Kurtz guides the university toward a future of continued growth and impact, ensuring that all strategic efforts support the success of the student body and the advancement of the institution's mission.

Becca Kenna-Schenk, the Chief of Staff at Western Washington University, manages the daily operations of the executive office to ensure seamless communication across all administrative levels. By coordinating high-level projects and facilitating cross-departmental collaboration, the Chief of Staff enables the university to execute its mission effectively. Becca Kenna-Schenk oversees the flow of information between the leadership team and external stakeholders, ensuring alignment with institutional goals. This role involves managing complex schedules and prioritizing critical initiatives that impact the university's standing in the Pacific Northwest. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief of Staff enhances organizational agility and responsiveness to emerging challenges. Through the careful oversight of administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff supports the broader strategic objectives of the institution. Ultimately, Kenna-Schenk maintains the operational integrity of the executive office, allowing the university to focus on delivering high-quality education and fostering a vibrant campus environment for all students.