Whitworth University Executive and Leadership Team

Scott McQuilkin, the President at Whitworth University, provides executive leadership for the entire institution, guiding the academic and financial trajectory of the university. McQuilkin oversees the delivery of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, ensuring that the educational experience remains consistent with the core mission of the institution. The President manages relationships with the Board of Trustees and external partners to secure resources for the 3,000 students enrolled. By setting the strategic vision, the President drives initiatives that expand the reach of the university within the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Scott McQuilkin fosters a culture of academic rigor and community service, aligning institutional policies with the values of the university. This leadership role involves balancing fiscal responsibility with the need for continuous improvement in campus facilities and faculty support. Through decisive action, the President maintains the reputation of the university as a premier center for higher education, ensuring long-term viability and student achievement.

Mark Baird, the Faculty President at Whitworth University, represents the interests of the teaching staff while promoting academic standards across all degree programs. Baird facilitates communication between the faculty and the administration, ensuring that pedagogical goals align with the broader mission of the university. The Faculty President oversees committees dedicated to curriculum development and faculty welfare, which directly impacts the quality of education provided to 3,000 students. By advocating for research support and professional development, the Faculty President enhances the intellectual environment of the Spokane campus. Mark Baird collaborates with other executive leaders to address academic policy changes and institutional growth strategies. This role involves maintaining high standards of instruction and fostering a collaborative atmosphere among educators. Through active participation in governance, the Faculty President ensures that the voice of the faculty remains central to decision-making processes. Baird supports the university commitment to excellence by championing initiatives that improve teaching effectiveness and student learning outcomes.

Rhosetta Rhodes, the Chief of Staff at Whitworth University, coordinates executive operations and facilitates communication across all administrative departments. Rhodes manages high-level projects that align with the university mission of providing rigorous undergraduate and graduate degree programs to over 3,000 students. By streamlining internal workflows, the Chief of Staff ensures that institutional goals remain prioritized during daily operations. Rhodes collaborates with the President to execute long-term strategic initiatives that enhance the campus experience. This role involves overseeing cross-functional teams to maintain operational efficiency throughout the Spokane campus and broader regional networks. Through meticulous planning and resource allocation, the Chief of Staff supports the university commitment to academic excellence. Rhosetta Rhodes maintains organizational focus on student outcomes while navigating complex administrative challenges. This leadership position drives the university forward by fostering collaboration between faculty, staff, and external stakeholders to achieve sustainable growth and institutional stability.

Celeste McCormick, the Chief Information Officer at Whitworth University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological strategy supporting the academic community. McCormick oversees the implementation of advanced learning management systems and secure data networks that serve the needs of 3,000 students. By modernizing campus technology, the Chief Information Officer enables seamless access to digital resources for both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. McCormick manages cybersecurity protocols to protect institutional data while ensuring reliable connectivity across the Spokane campus. This role involves evaluating emerging educational technologies to enhance classroom engagement and administrative productivity. Celeste McCormick collaborates with academic leaders to integrate digital tools into the curriculum, thereby supporting the university mission of academic excellence. Through strategic investment in hardware and software, the Chief Information Officer maintains a robust technological environment. McCormick ensures that all digital initiatives align with the long-term goals of the university, providing a foundation for innovation and student success.