Eller College of Management Honors Michelle Gass as 2026 Executive of the Year
Arizona Board of Regents Chair, Doug Goodyear, Michelle Gass, and Eller Dean and Halle Chair in Leadership, Karthik Kannan
On March 27, the Eller College of Management celebrated Michelle Gass, CEO and president of Levi Strauss & Co., as the 2026 University of Arizona Executive of the Year. The day brought together U of A students, alumni and Tucson business leaders for a day of connection and insight.
The day began at McClelland Hall, where Gass met with students for a fireside chat, creating an open dialogue for questions and meaningful discussion.
The event then moved to the Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa for the Executive of the Year luncheon, where Gass was formally honored. During the program, she joined Linda Bixby, chief research partnerships officer, for an informal and candid conversation reflecting on her career journey, leadership philosophy and advice for the next generation.
Gass shared that connecting with students was especially meaningful, noting how much she values opportunities to give back. She reassured students in the audience that they don’t need to have everything figured out early on. Her own career, she explained, has been “more of a jungle gym than a ladder.”
Growing up in a hardworking family in Maine, Gass began her journey studying chemical engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute before building a career that spans industries. From joining Starbucks in 1996—when the company had fewer than 1,000 stores—to leading Kohl’s as CEO for five years and now serving as President and CEO of Levi Strauss & Co., her path has been defined by curiosity, adaptability and a willingness to take chances. One of those pivotal moments came when she received a call offering her the opportunity to lead Levi Strauss & Co. An opportunity she described as impossible to pass up.
Throughout the conversation, Gass emphasized the importance of trusting mentors and being open to unexpected opportunities. Often, she noted, others can see your potential before you see it yourself, and leaning into those moments, even when they feel unconventional, can lead to the most exciting growth.
She also spoke about the power of combining data with imagination. While data provides an essential foundation, she explained that the most impactful ideas come from thinking beyond it. She pointed to bold decisions throughout her career, including innovative product launches and campaigns, as examples of how creativity and vision can lead to lasting impact.
When discussing uncertainty, Gass emphasized that it’s something every leader faces, regardless of title. For her, success comes down to people. Surrounding herself with strong teams and leading with empathy, humility and active listening. She described leadership as an act of service, grounded in care for others and informed by diverse perspectives.
Gass also reflected on confidence, sharing that it is built over time through experience—especially through failure. Each challenge, she explained, reinforces resilience and the belief that you can take on what comes next.
She closed with advice for students: go after what you want. Even if the path isn’t linear, hard work, grit and a focus on finding joy in both your professional and personal life will carry you forward.
The University of Arizona Executive of the Year Award was established in 1983 by the Eller College of Management to honor individuals who exemplify executive qualities in private enterprise and public service. Furthermore, this award recognizes executives whose leadership has not only driven their organization to new heights but has also set a remarkable example in their industry.
