Christine Hoyt to retire and OSPA to phase out

Christine Hoyt, vice president in the Office of Strategy, Planning, and Analysis, announced she will retire from Washington State University at the end of June, culminating a distinguished career that has shaped university strategy, strengthened presidential leadership, and elevated planning practices across the WSU system.

With her retirement, the Office of Strategy, Planning, and Analysis will close as part of a broader effort to simplify WSU's administrative structure and align systemwide operations with future goals.

Hoyt's service to WSU spans more than three decades and includes key leadership roles across the Office of the President, the Board of Regents, and central administrative units. She played a pivotal role in building the university's first systemwide strategic plan-an inclusive, collaborative process that brought coherence and transparency to institutional priorities. Her work set the foundation for a more connected, people-centered culture of planning at WSU.

"Christine's leadership has always centered on people, building trust and empowering others to lead," said WSU President Elizabeth Cantwell. "We are grateful for her years of service."

From managing presidential transitions and Regents' operations to shaping long-term institutional goals, Hoyt's career has exemplified a commitment to public higher education and to WSU's land-grant mission. She began her career as a student employee in the Office of the President and, over the years, played an integral role in supporting four university presidents, helping to guide leadership transitions, align presidential priorities, and provide continuity across changing administrations.

Hoyt also strengthened WSU's community and governance ties collaborating with city officials and local business owners to help establish the Downtown Pullman Association. She also worked with the president and chair of the Board of Regents to restructure the board's committee system, drafting new charters, and developing a strategic framework to support board governance.

A WSU alumna, employee, and donor, Hoyt's legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of Cougar Nation. "Looking back," she reflected, "what I'm most proud of is the opportunity I've had to work alongside talented and dedicated colleagues across the WSU system. Together, we've tackled some truly complex challenges-and I've been continually inspired by the tenacity, creativity, and shared commitment to doing what's best for our students and our state."