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. Rutschman manages the alignment of academic programs with regional workforce needs across the Pacific Northwest. By overseeing long-term institutional planning, the Chief Executive Officer ensures financial sustainability and operational efficiency. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine educational policies and expand research capabilities. Edward Rutschman drives initiatives that enhance the university's reputation for academic rigor and community impact. Through the optimization of administrative resources, the Chief Executive Officer supports faculty development and student achievement. Ultimately, Rutschman secures the future of the institution by fostering partnerships that bridge the gap between higher education and industry requirements, ensuring that the university remains a cornerstone of intellectual advancement within the state.

James Scott, the President at Western Washington University, oversees the academic integrity and scholarly output of this masters-granting institution. Scott directs the development of curriculum standards that align with the evolving needs of the Pacific Northwest labor market. By managing faculty recruitment and retention, the President ensures that the university maintains a high caliber of instruction and research. This leadership role involves representing the institution to state legislators and community partners to secure funding and support for academic programs. James Scott drives initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across the campus community. Through the oversight of academic departments, the President fosters an environment conducive to innovation and critical thinking. Ultimately, Scott shapes the intellectual trajectory of the university, ensuring that every academic program contributes to the broader mission of preparing students for professional success and civic responsibility.

W. Shepard, the President at Western Washington University, manages the physical and digital infrastructure necessary to support a premier public university. Shepard directs capital improvement projects that modernize campus facilities and enhance the learning environment for students across the Pacific Northwest. By overseeing the allocation of institutional resources, the President ensures that technology and equipment meet the demands of modern research and instruction. This leadership role involves coordinating with facilities management and IT departments to maintain operational excellence. W. Shepard drives sustainability initiatives that reduce the environmental footprint of the university. Through the strategic management of campus assets, the President supports the long-term growth and stability of the institution. Ultimately, Shepard optimizes the physical and technological landscape of the university, ensuring that faculty and students possess the tools required to excel in their respective fields of study and research.

Walter Lonner, the President at Western Washington University, leads the expansion of research partnerships and external grant acquisition for the institution. Lonner directs efforts to secure funding from federal and private sources to support masters-level research projects throughout the Pacific Northwest. By overseeing the Office of Research, the President ensures that scholarly activities align with the university's mission of regional impact. This leadership role involves mentoring faculty researchers and facilitating interdisciplinary collaborations that address complex societal challenges. Walter Lonner drives the growth of the university's research portfolio by fostering connections with industry leaders and academic peers. Through the management of grant compliance and research ethics, the President maintains the highest standards of academic integrity. Ultimately, Lonner elevates the research profile of the university, ensuring that scholarly contributions continue to inform public policy and advance knowledge within the region.

Tony Kurtz, the President at Western Washington University, manages student affairs and the overall campus experience for the diverse population of this public institution. Kurtz directs programs that support student wellness, career development, and extracurricular engagement across the Pacific Northwest. By overseeing the division of student life, the President ensures that the university provides a holistic educational experience that extends beyond the classroom. This leadership role involves addressing student needs, managing campus housing, and promoting a vibrant community culture. Tony Kurtz drives initiatives that improve student retention and graduation rates through targeted support services. Through the coordination of student organizations and leadership programs, the President fosters a sense of belonging and civic pride. Ultimately, Kurtz shapes the student experience, ensuring that every individual receives the guidance and resources necessary to thrive academically and personally during their time at the university.

Ebubechukwu Okotcha, the President & Provost, Office & Clerk at Western Washington University, manages the intersection of academic governance and administrative record-keeping. Okotcha directs the implementation of academic policies and ensures that all institutional procedures comply with state regulations in the Pacific Northwest. By overseeing the Office of the Provost, the President & Provost, Office & Clerk maintains the quality of degree programs and faculty standards. This leadership role involves managing the university's official records and ensuring transparency in administrative decision-making. Ebubechukwu Okotcha drives the integration of academic and administrative functions to improve institutional efficiency. Through the oversight of curriculum approval processes, the President & Provost, Office & Clerk ensures that all educational offerings meet rigorous accreditation standards. Ultimately, Okotcha maintains the structural integrity of the university, ensuring that academic governance remains robust and responsive to the needs of the entire campus community.

Greg Roberts, the President, Club at Western Washington University, manages the network of student-led organizations and professional clubs that enrich the campus environment. Roberts directs the allocation of funding and resources to these groups, ensuring that students have opportunities to develop leadership skills and professional networks throughout the Pacific Northwest. By overseeing the club registration and compliance process, the President, Club ensures that all student activities align with the university's mission and values. This leadership role involves mentoring student leaders and facilitating collaboration between different campus organizations. Greg Roberts drives the growth of extracurricular engagement by promoting events that highlight student innovation and community service. Through the management of club budgets and event planning, the President, Club supports a dynamic and inclusive campus culture. Ultimately, Roberts empowers students to take initiative, ensuring that the university remains a hub for active learning and personal development.

Bruce Shepard, the President at Western Washington University, manages the university's external relations and public advocacy efforts. Shepard directs communication strategies that highlight the institution's contributions to the Pacific Northwest economy and social fabric. By overseeing alumni relations and fundraising campaigns, the President ensures that the university maintains strong ties with its supporters and donors. This leadership role involves representing the institution at public forums and engaging with regional stakeholders to promote the value of public higher education. Bruce Shepard drives initiatives that increase the visibility of the university's masters-granting programs on a national scale. Through the management of public affairs, the President fosters a positive image that attracts prospective students and faculty. Ultimately, Shepard secures the long-term viability of the university by building a robust network of advocates who support the institution's mission of academic excellence and community service.

Jennifer Bensen, the Household Coordinator for the President at Western Washington University, manages the logistical and operational requirements of the presidential residence. Bensen directs the maintenance and event planning necessary to host official university functions and visiting dignitaries within the Pacific Northwest. By overseeing the household staff and budget, the Household Coordinator for the President ensures that the residence serves as an effective venue for institutional outreach and community engagement. This leadership role involves coordinating with the executive office to facilitate high-level meetings and social events that support the university's mission. Jennifer Bensen drives the efficiency of residential operations by implementing standardized procedures for hospitality and facility management. Through the careful management of the presidential household, the Household Coordinator for the President supports the public-facing responsibilities of the university leadership. Ultimately, Bensen ensures that the presidential residence remains a professional and welcoming environment for all guests.

Becca Kenna-Schenk, the Chief of Staff at Western Washington University, manages the daily operations of the executive office and facilitates communication across all university departments. Kenna-Schenk coordinates high-level projects that support the institutional mission of providing quality education in the Pacific Northwest. By streamlining administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff ensures that leadership decisions translate into actionable outcomes for faculty and students. This role involves managing complex schedules, preparing policy briefings, and acting as a primary liaison between the executive team and external stakeholders. Becca Kenna-Schenk drives organizational cohesion by resolving operational bottlenecks and maintaining focus on strategic priorities. Through the management of internal communications, the Chief of Staff fosters a collaborative environment that promotes institutional transparency. Ultimately, Kenna-Schenk optimizes the executive office to ensure that the university functions effectively while pursuing its goals for academic excellence and regional service.