Champion Business Leader

Joe Smith, Gonzaga University

As Gonzaga University’s Chief Financial Officer, Joe Smith views the Commute Smart program as a direct extension of the university’s mission to practice responsible stewardship of its physical, financial, and human resources. Under his leadership, Gonzaga has maintained a steadfast commitment to the Spokane Transit Authority (STA) Universal Transit Access Pass (UTAP) program, which grants free transit access to all employees, faculty, students, and on-campus partners.

Joe views the provision of fully subsidized STA passes as a strategic institutional investment. He believes that if these passes serve as the catalyst for even one person to abandon their single-occupant vehicle, it constitutes a significant victory for the individual’s finances, the environment, and the university’s parking capacity.

Joe leads by example, carpooling with his wife whenever their schedules permit. He advocates for flexible and hybrid work arrangements that allow individuals to move away from the costs of vehicle ownership, insurance, and maintenance. By prioritizing sustainable mobility, Gonzaga reinforces its role as a forward-thinking community leader dedicated to environmental care.