Our Distinguished Speakers & Honorees
Ed Taylor, Ph.D.
Undergraduate Commencement Speaker
As vice provost and dean of undergraduate academic affairs at the University of Washington, Dr. Taylor prepares undergraduates to serve as leaders in their communities, and has addressed inequities to improve access to higher education. He will be awarded a honorary Doctor of Public Service degree.
Angelique Albert, MBA
Graduate Commencement Speaker
Ms. Albert is the CEO of the Native Forward Scholars Fund, the largest provider of direct scholarships to Native students in the United States, and is an accomplished artist for Native culture. She will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.
Robert Gates, Ph.D.
Law Commencement Speaker
After having served in high-profile roles for seven presidential administrations, including director of the Central Intelligence Agency, Dr. Gates became president of Texas A&M University and chancellor of the College of William & Mary. He will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.
Marianne Poxleitner, Ph.D.
President's Award of Distinction
Faculty President
April 2020 - May 2024
Whitney Franklin
President's Award of Distinction
Staff Assembly President
June 2020 - December 2023
Minnie Alexander, J.D.
Gonzaga Law Medal
Ms. Alexander is the General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI) with a robust career in service to large corporations. She will receive an honorary Doctor of Laws.
Rachel Gotvald
Undergraduate Commencement
Student Speaker
Bachelor of Arts, Honors
Tracy Madden-McMahon
Graduate Commencement
Student Speaker
Master of Arts
Ben Johnsrud
Law Commencement
Student Speaker
Juris Doctor