Gonzaga Names New Trustees in 2026
President Katia Passerini says these new leaders join the board at a time the University is forging forward with innovative initiatives and seeking the right experience to make bold mission-centered investments. “We welcome new thought leaders to join our efforts in carrying out the Gonzaga strategic plan and appreciate that these new members bring unique experiences to complement our existing board.”
Gerard Centioli ('76) holds a degree in business from Gonzaga and brings a wealth of leadership experience in global restaurant operations, from franchises to independent restaurants, particularly in the Chicago metro area. Other board experiences include the National Italian American Foundation and Gonzaga's Board of Regents. At Gonzaga, Centioli was a significant supporter of the expansion of the School of Business Administration in the early 2000s, and his family's philanthropy supports faculty excellence awards.
Jaylene Howard ('02) is head of client and consultant relations for Parametric, a Seattle-based investment strategy firm, leading teams responsible for developing and deepening relationships with consultants and the firm's institutional clients in North America. There she also co-chairs the Women's Leadership Exchange employee networking group. Prior to joining Parametric in 2018, Jaylene worked at Canterbury Consulting, providing strategic investment advice to endowments, foundations, corporations and ultra-high-net-worth families. She holds undergraduate degrees from GU in economics and history and currently serves on the investment committees of Gonzaga University and Seattle Preparatory School.
Alejandro Olayo-Mendez, S.J., is a priest representing Jesuits West, the West Coast province of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits). A professor of social work at Boston College, his research centers on migrant and refugee populations and the humanitarian organizations that serve them. He authored "Humanitarianism from Below," which analyze how migrant shelters shape immigration processes, particularly at the Mexico-U.S border. Olayo-Mendez holds master's and doctorate degrees from the University of Oxford as well as master's degrees from Jesuit institutions Boston College and Loyola University Chicago.
"It's a genuine pleasure to welcome these new trustees," says D. Michael Reilly, board chair. "Each brings exceptional expertise, deep commitment to mission, and a proven record of leadership that will strengthen our shared work for Gonzaga."
Reilly also extends gratitude on behalf of the board to Kris Snow ('82), who rotates off after nearly 10 years of service as a trustee. "We are deeply grateful for Kris' outstanding service on the board. Her remarkable blend of technological expertise, sharp business insight and tireless dedication made her an indispensable trustee."