By Javier Fox—
Gonzaga alumnus Mr. Matt Barry, class of 1990, came back to the North Capitol area of Washington, D.C. to become the new general manager of Union Station. A Gonzaga grad, he plans to bring new ideas to the table when it comes to revitalizing Union Station, one of the District’s most historical gems. But what does that mean for Gonzaga students?
Mr. Barry is tasked with overseeing the day-to-day operations of Union Station, as well as developing and implementing new initiatives to improve the experience of the over 40 million visitors Union Station hosts each year. His background in property management, combined with his knowledge of transportation operations, makes him well-seasoned for this role.
Another Gonzaga alumnus Mr. Pablo Perez, also from the class of 1990, talked about his time at Gonzaga with Mr. Barry.
“Barry was really a great guy. I’m glad he’s moving closer to I street to affect change for Gonzaga and the surrounding neighborhoods,” Mr. Perez said.
Mr. Perez also reacted to Mr. Barry’s vast experience and education.
“Barry’s stacked resume will definitely serve Union Station well,” Mr. Perez said.
Mr. Barry began his career at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Fla. studying Economics. He then went on to receive degrees from the University of Maryland and the University of Baltimore. His most notable career positions include District General Manager of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield malls and Assistant Vice President of Macerich managing the Tysons Corner Campus including the two million square foot shopping center.
Being a Gonzaga graduate, Mr. Barry understands the importance of safety in Union Station. Safety is a large concern for many in Gonzaga’s administration.
Dean of Students Mr. Robert Churchwell, also a classmate of Mr. Barry’s, said, “especially since [Mr. Barry] is an alum of our school, […] I would definitely expect those issues to be addressed.”
As far as the relationship between the leadership at Union Station and Gonzaga’s Student Services office, “[We are] looking into forming some type of system relationship with leadership. It’s probably a good idea,” Mr. Churchwell said.
Safety is on the mind for all Gonzaga parents and how the new leadership attacks this will be closely monitored by all in the community.
Mr. Churchwell’s office, as always, will continue to look out for the safety of all Gonzaga students on and off campus. In regard to keeping communication alive between the two parties, Mr. Churchwell said he is striving to “keep that line of communication open just in case there are any issues any problems or even just ‘we love the way your students are walking in and out.’”
As new leadership is ushered in, the Gonzaga community hopes to see an increase in safety and comfort in and around Union Station.