Colette Casavant has been selected as the new executive director for university advising, effective Oct. 26, 2026. Casavant currently serves as the director of student success and academic advising in the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences.
Her selection follows a comprehensive national search. Casavant replaces Terese King, who retired from WSU in August.
As executive director for university advising, Colette will provide strategic leadership and oversight for undergraduate academic advising across all WSU campuses. She will coordinate implementation of the university’s Shared Advising Model, guide advising strategy and assessment efforts, foster professional development for advisors, strengthen student success and retention initiatives, and collaborate with campus and college leaders to ensure consistent, high-quality, and equitable advising services for WSU students.
Casavant brings more than 18 years of higher education leadership experience at both WSU and Seattle University, where she has provided leadership in academic advising, student success, retention, and strategic partnership development. She has played a key role in advancing WSU’s Shared Advising Model and currently serves as chair of the WSU Advising Assessment Committee.
“Colette brings a deep understanding of WSU, extensive advising expertise, and a strong commitment to student success to this role,” said Samantha Swindell, vice provost for undergraduate education. “Her collaborative approach and experience will be invaluable as we continue strengthening advising across the university and ensuring students receive consistent, high-quality support wherever they are in their WSU journey.”
Casavant has an EdD in educational leadership, and an MA in pastoral studies from Seattle University. She received her BA in sociology and anthropology from Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon. She joined WSU in 2016, following nine years working in Admissions and Student Services at Seattle University.
“I’m honored and excited to take on this role,” Casavant said. “Throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand the difference advisors make in students’ lives. I believe that when advisors are supported, students are supported. I look forward to partnering with colleagues across the WSU system to strengthen our advising community and to ensure every WSU student has access to the guidance and support they need to thrive.”
