Duties

As the visionary leader at the helm of the esteemed Washington State University system, the President holds a pivotal role in shaping the institution’s land-grant research university mission and future. Reporting directly to the distinguished 11-member Board of Regents, the President not only crafts the strategic roadmap for WSU but also champions higher-education policies, advocates for and engages in philanthropic endeavors, and serves as the prominent ambassador at both state and global levels.

With a comprehensive mandate encompassing strategic planning, academic excellence, research advancements, extension services, and financial stewardship, the President collaborates extensively with a diverse array of stakeholders to define and drive the institution’s overarching vision. This includes fostering partnerships with internal and external entities to ensure WSU’s continued growth and success, providing economic benefit to the state of Washington and all communities.

As the guardian of WSU’s esteemed reputation, the President articulates and disseminates the university’s strategic objectives to garner widespread support and enthusiasm among its varied stakeholders. From faculty and students to alumni, community members, government officials, industry leaders, and the media, the President spearheads efforts to solidify WSU’s standing as a beacon of excellence in education and research with a primary focus on access.

Embracing the core tenets of shared institutional governance, the President upholds principles of inclusivity and transparency by engaging with the governance groups that represent WSU’s many diverse and varied stakeholders to shape WSU’s trajectory. Recognizing the pivotal role of each campus and center within the statewide system, the President fosters collaboration across the state to address unique needs and harness regional strengths, thereby fortifying WSU’s impact and relevance throughout Washington.

At the heart of WSU’s strategic evolution lies the President’s responsibility to craft a robust financial and operational framework that propels the university towards its long-term aspirations. By spearheading resource acquisition initiatives and driving innovative strategies, the President paves the way for WSU to thrive as a dynamic, forward-thinking institution dedicated to serving its communities and advancing knowledge on a global scale.

The president directs an executive leadership team that includes:

  • Executive Vice President and Provost
  • Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer
  • Executive Vice President, Health Sciences and Chancellor, WSU Spokane
  • Chancellor, WSU Everett
  • Chancellor, WSU Global
  • Chancellor, WSU Pullman
  • Chancellor, WSU Tri-Cities
  • Chancellor, WSU Vancouver
  • Director of Athletics

The following are also members of the president’s leadership team:

  • Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer*
  • Vice President for Development and CEO of the WSU Foundation
  • Vice President for External Affairs and Government Relations
  • Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer*
  • Vice President for International Programs**
  • Vice President for Marketing and Communications
  • Vice President for Research**
  • Vice President of Strategy, Planning, and Analysis

*Reports to EVP for Finance and Administration
**Reports to EVP and Provost

In addition, the Office of the President includes:

  • Chief of Staff
  • Public Relations/Communication Coordinator
  • Executive Assistant to the Board of Regents
  • Executive Director, Corporate Engagement
  • Vice Provost for Native American Relations and Programs and Tribal Liaison
  • Confidential Secretary
  • Coordinator, Presidential Projects