TEDx Advisor Mohamed Rashed Credits Gonzaga with Shaping His Leadership Journey
When Gonzaga University alum Mohamed Rashed (Ph.D. ’24) advises TEDx Spokane, he brings with him more than 16 years of banking leadership experience and nearly a decade of doctoral study shaped by community, curiosity and courage. A Senior Vice President and Community Division Director at Banner Bank, Rashed oversees 13 branches and nearly 70 employees across greater Spokane and northern Idaho—work he credits in part to the leadership foundation he built at Gonzaga University.
Rashed completed his PhD in Leadership Studies in 2024 while working full time in the banking industry, a demanding career path that required both flexibility and perseverance. He began the program in 2017, drawn to Gonzaga’s ability to meet working professionals where they are. “It’s really an educational institution that allows you to thrive,” Rashed said, citing the faculty’s support and willingness to work with students’ schedules and goals.
While much of his doctoral experience took place in evening and virtual classes, Rashed recalls immersive, multi-day sessions as defining moments. Those extended experiences created space for deeper conversations, reflection and connection with peers from diverse professional backgrounds. Learning alongside fellow leaders, he said, strengthened his understanding of leadership as deeply human.
Now a senior leader in his field, Rashed is especially passionate about encouraging current Gonzaga students to advocate for themselves—something he says made a meaningful difference in his own academic journey.
“Sometimes being a student can feel lonely,” Rashed said. “But Gonzaga professors and advisors truly have an open-door policy. If you’re confused, overwhelmed or just need guidance, send the email. Ask the question. They want to help you succeed.”
For Rashed, being a Zag doesn’t end at commencement. He continues to see Gonzaga as a lifelong community, one defined by shared values, generosity and a responsibility to lift others up. Whether mentoring colleagues, sharing his story with prospective students or representing the university in his professional life, Rashed remains committed to carrying Gonzaga’s mission forward.
You can connect with GU alum Dr. Mohamed Rashed on LinkedIn here.
Rashed serves as a board member on the Sponsorship Committee for TEDxSpokane, which is coming to GU's Myrtle Woldson Center on Saturday, January 31. The event promises a full day of bold ideas and meaningful conversation. The Coughlin Theater will host educators, artists and innovators from across the region, each sharing a unique point of view. The program features twelve voices speaking about creativity, wellbeing and leadership, many of which are GU alumni!