WWU Registrar David Brunnemer to Retire

David Brunnemer will retire as registrar at Western Washington University on Jan. 9.

“David’s retirement, after over 25 years at Western and almost nine years as our registrar, represents a significant loss for Western,” said Shelli Soto, assistant vice president for enrollment management at Western. “He will be missed for so many reasons, not the least of which are his extraordinary commitment to serving students and his dedication to enrollment management during a time of rapid change and growth. He has played an important part in the story of this university and in the lives of countless students. We are so thankful for all that David has done for this institution, and we wish him every happiness in retirement.”

While a search is under way for a new registrar, Soto and Assistant Registrar Taya Winter will be sharing responsibilities of the WWU registrar, with Soto taking the lead on curricular and academic matters and Winter taking the lead in the office on operations.

“It has been the shortest 25 plus years of my life, having enjoyed contributing to the success of thousands of students and working with the finest faculty in the Pacific Northwest,” Brunnemer said.

In February 1994, Brunnemer came to WWU from the University of California, Davis, in order to serve as Western’s coordinator of Disabled Student Services. At that time, the office had one part-time staff person and served about 100 students. Brunnemer led efforts to serve students with disabilities and worked closely with other campus offices, including the Dean of Students, Judicial Affairs, Multicultural services and later Student Outreach Services. 

In October of 2009, Brunnemer became associate registrar while retaining directorship of disability services for students and gaining leadership in Veteran Services during the expansion of VA benefits under Chapter 33.

Brunnemer became Western’s university registrar in June of 2011.  By his estimate, during his career, he has participated in over 100 commencements.

In retirement, Brunnemer said he will be focusing on organic farming in north Whatcom County and also pursuing interests in regional food insecurity, creative arts and in horology.