Dr. Manny Gonzalez serves as the Director of State Government & Community Relations (South Region), leading multi-state policy and community engagement efforts for WGU across Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. In this role, he leads strategic initiatives and efforts with state and local policymakers, government agencies, higher education institutions, workforce organizations, and community leaders to expand access to education and strengthen workforce development pathways.

With experience spanning higher education, public policy, and nonprofit leadership, Manny has held roles at the state and federal levels of government as well as within colleges and universities, including the Texas Association of Community Colleges, the Texas House of Representatives, and the White House Domestic Policy Council. His work focuses on creating stronger connections between education and workforce needs, particularly for adult learners seeking flexible, affordable, and career-aligned pathways.

In addition to his work at WGU, Manny serves as Vice Chair of the Austin Community College District Board of Trustees and remains actively engaged in civic and community leadership efforts across Central Texas.