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Senior Cabinet

Western President Brad Baca, Senior Cabinet

Western Colorado University President Brad Baca is advised by a Senior Cabinet that is comprised of Vice Presidents from across campus.

Headshot of Brad Baca

Brad Baca

President

Brad Baca is the 15th President of Western Colorado University. He joined Western in 2002 as Vice President for Finance and Administration. In 2013-14 he served as interim President. During his time at Western, Mr. Baca has developed a reputation as creative and trustworthy, someone who can convene stakeholders, facilitate problem solving, and accomplish complex […]

Headshot of Jessica Young

Jessica Young

Provost

Jessica Young, Ph.D. is a leader in science and an agent of change with a passion for educating. She has served Western as both a faculty member and in senior administrative roles since 1996 and was appointed by President Baca to the position of Provost beginning January 1, 2023.  The provost serves as the second-highest […]

Headshot of Mike LaPlante

Mike LaPlante

Vice President of Advancement

Mike LaPlante was introduced as Western Colorado University’s Vice President of Advancement in April 2019. LaPlante has spent the past 25 years in growing leadership roles within higher education development. For 15 years prior to joining Western, LaPlante served Colorado State University in various capacities. Initially he led the Athletic Development team, where he grew […]

Headshot of Leslie Taylor

Leslie Taylor

Interim Vice President, Marketing & Enrollment

Leslie Taylor joined Western Colorado University in March 2022 as interim Vice President for Marketing and Enrollment. From April 2018 to December 2021, Taylor served as Vice President for Enrollment and Access at Colorado State University, providing leadership to the Access Center and the Offices of Admissions, Financial Aid, and the Registrar. Prior to the […]

Gary Pierson

Gary Pierson

Dean of Students




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