The WGU Midwest Distinguished Alumni Council was established to provide counsel to Regional Vice President Dr. Terrance Hopson on regional needs and trends and to help shape the direction and fulfillment of the university’s mission.
WGU established the Council to grow and strengthen the university’s connections with key stakeholders in the region. The newly-formed council is comprised of leaders and influencers from a variety of sectors across the Midwest. The Council provides insight on the most effective ways WGU can expand access to career-relevant post-secondary educational opportunities across the Midwest - from North Dakota to Missouri.
Daniel Creed (MBA ’20, BS ’18). Dan is currently the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for Allegiant Travel Company, responsible for Information Security, Cybersecurity Operations, and the Privacy, Risk Governance, and Compliance teams.
Brian Gongol (MEd ‘20). Brian has extensive background in media (several years as a radio talk show host) and is also a partner in his family's engineering firm, DJ Gongol & Associates. His spouse, Sara Craig Gongol, is a power player in regional GOP politics. Brian is very enthusiastic about WGU and quite engaging to speak with. He is now pursuing his second master’s degree from WGU in IT/Cybersecurity.
Jeffrey Howes (MBA ’22, BM ‘20). Jeffrey is Chief Operating Officer for Arrow Stage Lines. He supports WGU through the endowed Arrow Stage Lines Scholarship. He is a highly satisfied graduate looking to give back.
Brenda Soto (Masters in Health Leadership ‘21). Brenda is the Emergency Preparedness & Response Officer for NE DHHS Division of Public Health as of May 2022.
Jeffrey Tucker (MBAHM ’17). Jeffrey is VP Business Development & Care Innovation, Marshfield Clinic Health System and founder of Raindance Group LLC, investments and consulting.
