A Bold Blend: Bella LaBate Connects Starbucks, Sophia University, and Gonzaga

When Gonzaga alumna Bella LaBate (’19) helped connect Starbucks with the School of Leadership Studies, she set in motion a partnership that brought a longtime global collaborator, Sophia University, into direct conversation with one of the world’s most recognized brands.

Earlier this year, Sophia University students arrived in Spokane for a one-week, short-term study abroad program titled Inclusive Leadership: Creating Cultures of Innovation, Engagement, and Belonging, taught by SLS faculty. Though the students earn academic credit through Sophia University rather than Gonzaga, the program reflects a decades-long partnership between the two institutions.

The week blended classroom learning with organizational visits and cultural immersion activities across Spokane and Seattle. Students visited Canopy Credit Union and Coffman Engineers in Spokane, then Starbucks headquarters and the Gates Foundation in Seattle, each stop reinforcing lessons in leadership, communication and purpose-driven organizational culture.

LaBate, who works in Starbucks’ brand and product strategy division and has been a Starbucks partner for seven years, helped facilitate the Seattle visit. For her, the experience was especially meaningful: as a Gonzaga student, she once attended a Career Trek at Starbucks, an experience that inspired her to build her career there.

This new collaboration exemplifies the power of relationship-driven learning and the strength of the Zag alumni network. It also marks a milestone: while Gonzaga and Sophia University have partnered for decades, this was the first time this SLS program, offered virtually since 2020, took place in the United States with students on the ground.

“Zags help Zags, it’s what we do,” LaBate shared. Her leadership reflects how alumni, universities, and organizations can come together to spark global understanding and open doors for the next generation.

LaBate will continue that commitment next month, partnering with GU’s Alumni & Friends team and Career & Professional Development to host a Trek experience at Starbucks, bringing her journey full circle.