Willamette University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Willamette University has 5 leaders guiding key functions including information technology, finance, and student organizations.

Dedicated to fostering intellectual curiosity and civic responsibility, Willamette University advances its mission through comprehensive liberal arts education and a commitment to community engagement, shaping future leaders in an academically rich setting.

Leadership Roles at Willamette University

  • Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance - Anne Gallagher
  • Boffer Club President - Andrew Nelson
  • President, Health Professions Club - Gavin Klipfel
  • Growing Oaks President - Rose Grimson
  • Vice President & Chief Information Officer - Jeremy Lovato
  • Anne Gallagher - Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance

    Anne Gallagher, the Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance at Willamette University, manages the institution's financial health and strategic resource allocation. Overseeing all financial operations, Gallagher ensures fiscal responsibility and sustainability for the oldest university in the western United States. This critical role involves budgeting, financial planning, investment management, and compliance with regulatory standards. By developing sound financial strategies, the Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance supports the university's ability to offer diverse undergraduate and graduate programs. Gallagher's oversight of financial resources directly enables Willamette University's focus on leadership development and active community engagement, ensuring long-term operational capacity and growth.

    Andrew Nelson - Boffer Club President

    Andrew Nelson, the Boffer Club President at Willamette University, leads student initiatives focused on extracurricular engagement and community building. This role involves organizing club activities, fostering member participation, and representing the club's interests within the university structure. Nelson's leadership directly contributes to the vibrant student life that complements Willamette University's academic offerings. By coordinating events and promoting club objectives, the Boffer Club President enhances the student experience, aligning with the university's emphasis on active community engagement. Andrew Nelson's dedication supports the development of leadership skills among students through hands-on organizational involvement.

    Gavin Klipfel - President, Health Professions Club

    Gavin Klipfel, the President, Health Professions Club at Willamette University, spearheads student efforts related to health sciences and professional development. This position entails organizing informational sessions, networking opportunities with health professionals, and supporting students pursuing careers in healthcare fields. Klipfel's leadership directly enhances the academic enrichment provided by the university, particularly for students interested in health professions. By facilitating connections and providing resources, the President, Health Professions Club supports critical thinking and career readiness. Gavin Klipfel's active role contributes to the university's mission of preparing students for impactful futures through focused academic and professional pursuits.

    Rose Grimson - Growing Oaks President

    Rose Grimson, the Growing Oaks President at Willamette University, directs student-led initiatives focused on environmental sustainability and community outreach. This leadership position involves coordinating campus green programs, promoting ecological awareness, and engaging students in service-oriented projects. Grimson's efforts directly support the university's commitment to active community engagement and civic responsibility. By championing sustainability efforts, the Growing Oaks President fosters a culture of environmental stewardship among the student body. Rose Grimson's dedication enhances the overall student experience, reinforcing Willamette University's dedication to developing well-rounded leaders prepared to address societal challenges.

    Jeremy Lovato - Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Jeremy Lovato, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Willamette University, directs the institution's technology strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all information systems, Lovato ensures the seamless operation of digital resources essential for academic and administrative functions. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols, supporting research computing needs, and driving innovation in educational technology to enhance the learning experience. By optimizing network performance and implementing robust data management solutions, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer directly supports the university's commitment to an academically enriching environment. Lovato's strategic vision ensures that technology effectively serves the university's mission of critical thinking and leadership development across its diverse programs.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Willamette University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Willamette University?
    Willamette University is led by Anne Gallagher (Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance), along with executives such as Andrew Nelson (Boffer Club President) and Gavin Klipfel (President, Health Professions Club).
    Who is part of Willamette University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Willamette University includes leaders such as Anne Gallagher (Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance), Andrew Nelson (Boffer Club President), Gavin Klipfel (President, Health Professions Club) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Willamette University have?
    Willamette University has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Willamette University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Willamette University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance, Boffer Club President, President, Health Professions Club, Growing Oaks President, Vice President & Chief Information Officer.