Willamette University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Willamette University has 5 executives leading key functions including information technology, financial management, health professions, student advocacy, and campus sustainability.

Rooted in a tradition of academic excellence, Willamette University fosters critical thinking and leadership development through active community engagement and a deep connection to civic life in the Pacific Northwest.

Leadership Roles at Willamette University

  • Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance - Anne Gallagher
  • President, Health Professions Club - Gavin Klipfel
  • Alianza, Co-President - Valeria Perez
  • Growing Oaks President - Rose Grimson
  • Chief Information Officer, Vpit - Jeremy Lovato
  • Anne Gallagher - Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance

    Anne Gallagher, the Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance at Willamette University, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic sustainability of the institution. Overseeing the allocation of university resources, the Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance ensures that budgetary decisions align with the core mission of providing a high-quality liberal arts education. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Board of Trustees to maintain financial transparency and optimize endowment performance. By implementing rigorous fiscal controls, Anne Gallagher directly impacts the university's ability to fund critical infrastructure and student programs. The Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance also monitors regional economic trends to guide strategic investments that support campus expansion. Through disciplined financial oversight, Gallagher secures the necessary capital to sustain the university's position as a premier educational leader in the western United States.

    Gavin Klipfel - President, Health Professions Club

    Gavin Klipfel, the President, Health Professions Club at Willamette University, directs student-led initiatives focused on career development within the medical and healthcare sectors. Overseeing professional networking events and clinical workshops, the President, Health Professions Club ensures that aspiring practitioners gain exposure to real-world industry standards. This leadership role involves facilitating partnerships with local healthcare providers to create internship opportunities for the student body. By fostering a collaborative environment for future medical professionals, Gavin Klipfel directly impacts the career readiness of participants. The President, Health Professions Club also coordinates with faculty advisors to align club activities with the university's broader goals of community engagement and service. Through the active promotion of health-related academic pathways, Klipfel strengthens the university's reputation for producing graduates prepared for the complexities of the modern healthcare landscape.

    Valeria Perez - Alianza, Co-President

    Valeria Perez, the Alianza, Co-President at Willamette University, directs advocacy efforts and cultural programming designed to support the diverse student population. Overseeing community outreach and inclusive campus events, the Alianza, Co-President ensures that the university remains a welcoming environment for all students. This leadership role involves collaborating with administrative offices to promote equity and representation across the liberal arts curriculum. By organizing forums that highlight diverse perspectives, Valeria Perez directly impacts the social fabric and inclusive culture of the campus. The Alianza, Co-President also works with student government to address systemic needs and enhance the overall student experience. Through the consistent promotion of cultural awareness and active community engagement, Perez strengthens the university's commitment to fostering a supportive and academically enriching environment for every member of the student body.

    Rose Grimson - Growing Oaks President

    Rose Grimson, the Growing Oaks President at Willamette University, directs sustainability initiatives and environmental stewardship programs across the campus. Overseeing the management of campus gardens and ecological projects, the Growing Oaks President ensures that the university maintains its commitment to environmental responsibility. This leadership role involves coordinating with the facilities department to implement green practices that reduce the institutional carbon footprint. By promoting sustainable living and agricultural education, Rose Grimson directly impacts the university's environmental impact and community awareness. The Growing Oaks President also organizes educational workshops that connect students with local ecological issues and sustainable development strategies. Through the active management of campus green spaces, Grimson secures a healthier and more sustainable future for the university, aligning daily operations with the broader mission of responsible stewardship and active community engagement.

    Jeremy Lovato - Chief Information Officer, Vpit

    Jeremy Lovato, the Chief Information Officer, Vpit at Willamette University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological strategy for the entire campus. Overseeing the integration of advanced academic software and secure network systems, the Chief Information Officer, Vpit ensures that students and faculty maintain access to essential research tools. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive institutional data while supporting the university's mission of academic enrichment. By modernizing campus-wide connectivity, Jeremy Lovato directly impacts the efficiency of administrative and educational operations. The Chief Information Officer, Vpit also collaborates with academic departments to implement innovative learning technologies that enhance the student experience. Through the strategic deployment of digital resources, Lovato secures the technological foundation necessary for long-term institutional growth and operational excellence across the Pacific Northwest region.

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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 Gavin Klipfel (President, Health Professions Club) and Valeria Perez (Alianza, Co-President).
    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), Gavin Klipfel (President, Health Professions Club), Valeria Perez (Alianza, Co-President) 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, President, Health Professions Club, Alianza, Co-President, Growing Oaks President, Chief Information Officer, Vpit.