Western Washington University Executive and Leadership Team

Edward Rutschman, the Chief Executive Officer at Western Washington University, directs the overarching strategic vision and long-term institutional planning. Rutschman manages the alignment of academic goals with fiscal sustainability, ensuring the university maintains high standards in public education. By coordinating with the Board of Trustees, the Chief Executive Officer shapes policies that influence student outcomes and faculty research initiatives. Edward Rutschman oversees the integration of administrative functions to support the mission of providing accessible, high-quality degrees within the Pacific Northwest. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory environments while promoting innovation in curriculum development. Through rigorous oversight of institutional resources, the Chief Executive Officer drives growth and maintains the reputation of the university as a premier masters-granting institution. Rutschman secures the future of the organization by fostering partnerships that expand the reach and impact of the university across the region.

Ebubechukwu Okotcha, the President & Provost, Office & Clerk at Western Washington University, oversees academic affairs and the integrity of institutional records. Okotcha directs the development of academic programs, ensuring that curriculum standards meet the needs of students in the Pacific Northwest. By managing the faculty appointment process and academic policy, the President & Provost, Office & Clerk maintains the rigor of the university educational offerings. Ebubechukwu Okotcha coordinates with department heads to align research goals with the broader mission of the institution. This leadership role involves supervising the registrar functions and ensuring compliance with academic regulations. Through the oversight of academic governance, the President & Provost, Office & Clerk drives excellence in teaching and learning. Okotcha supports the professional development of faculty members, ensuring that the university remains a hub for intellectual inquiry and scholarly achievement while managing the administrative complexities of the office.

Tony Kurtz, the President at Western Washington University, focuses on external relations and community partnerships to advance the university profile. Kurtz drives initiatives that connect the institution with regional stakeholders, fostering collaborations that benefit the student body and local economy. By representing the university in public forums, the President builds support for academic programs and research funding. Tony Kurtz oversees the development of outreach strategies that expand the influence of the university across the Pacific Northwest. This leadership role involves engaging with alumni and donors to secure resources for campus infrastructure and student scholarships. Through the cultivation of these external networks, the President ensures that the university remains a vital contributor to the regional landscape. Kurtz manages the public image of the institution, ensuring that all outreach efforts align with the core mission of providing accessible, high-quality education to a diverse student population.

Walter Lonner, the President at Western Washington University, directs internal cultural initiatives and faculty engagement programs. Lonner focuses on fostering an inclusive academic environment that supports diverse research interests and student success. By overseeing the implementation of campus-wide policies, the President ensures that the university maintains a supportive atmosphere for intellectual growth. Walter Lonner coordinates with academic departments to promote interdisciplinary studies and collaborative projects. This leadership role involves managing internal committees that address student welfare and faculty development. Through the promotion of a vibrant campus culture, the President drives engagement and retention across the university community. Lonner monitors the effectiveness of internal programs, ensuring that all initiatives contribute to the overall mission of the institution. By prioritizing the needs of the campus community, the President supports the long-term stability and academic reputation of the university within the Pacific Northwest.

Karen Morse, the President at Western Washington University, manages the financial health and resource allocation of the institution. Morse oversees the budgeting process, ensuring that funds are directed toward high-impact academic programs and essential campus services. By analyzing fiscal trends, the President identifies opportunities for cost-efficiency and revenue growth. Karen Morse coordinates with the finance department to maintain the long-term economic viability of the university. This leadership role involves evaluating the performance of various administrative units to ensure alignment with the strategic goals of the institution. Through the careful management of university assets, the President supports the expansion of research facilities and student support services. Morse drives the development of financial strategies that allow the university to remain competitive in the Pacific Northwest. By balancing fiscal responsibility with the commitment to academic excellence, the President ensures the continued success and growth of the university.

Becca Kenna-Schenk, the Chief of Staff at Western Washington University, manages the daily operations of the executive office and facilitates communication between leadership departments. Kenna-Schenk coordinates high-level projects that require cross-functional collaboration, ensuring that institutional priorities remain on schedule. By streamlining administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff enhances the efficiency of the university leadership team. Becca Kenna-Schenk monitors the implementation of strategic initiatives, providing critical support to the executive office during complex decision-making processes. This role involves managing internal stakeholder relations and preparing briefings for the Board of Trustees to ensure transparency and alignment with the university mission. Through meticulous attention to operational detail, the Chief of Staff supports the broader goals of the institution. Kenna-Schenk maintains the integrity of executive communications, ensuring that all administrative actions reflect the core values of the university while fostering a productive environment for faculty and staff.