David Garcia, MEd

• Gonzaga University, PhD in Leadership Studies, ABD
• Heritage University, MEd in Teaching and Learning, 2008
• Central Washington University, BS in Business Administration and Management Information Systems, 2005

David (pronounced dah-beed) H. Garcia grew up in the agricultural fields of Eastern Washington. David is a product of many generous people who dedicated time and energy to developing and nurturing him, helping him understand the beauty and power of humanity. David is an organizer, convener, administrator, trainer, teacher, consultant, and national thought leader with over 25 years of experience working collaboratively across sectors to reduce inequities and increase Belonging. David is committed to working towards repairing historical wrongdoings and restoring autonomy grounded in pride, territoriality, and self-determination.

Since arriving at the college, David has led multiple college-wide efforts, including creating the Office for Health Equity, the Center for the People, and the Conference for Health Equity and Public Good. He has developed and implemented pathway programs to increase the physician workforce and helped refine our Health Equity curriculum. Previously, David worked as the Assistant Dean of Student Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Whitworth University, where he led institution-wide efforts to increase support for historically minoritized students, staff, and faculty. Under his leadership, Whitworth University was recognized as an Insight into Diversity Higher Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) Award recipient and received national recognition for developing and sustaining the Building Unity & Cultivating Success (BUCS) Bridge Program, which bolstered exceptional retention rates for first-generation college students and students of color.