Human Resources Team
Feel free to visit us during our normal office hours! Whether you are a current employee or just starting the hiring process, our staff are here to assist you and answer your employment questions. Give us a call at (509) 527-2820!
Erna Marquez
Director
(509) 527-2302 | erna.marquez@wallawalla.edu
Erna joined the WWU family in June 2026. She holds a Master's degree in Human Resources Management from Keller Graduate School of Management, along with two Bachelor's degrees from Andrews University: a B.A. in Language for International Trade (French) and a B.A. in Spanish Studies. Erna brings a well-rounded understanding of Human Resources, having worked in the field since 2004.
Born in Mexico, Erna is a third-generation Seventh-day Adventist. She immigrated to the United States in 1996 when her father was called to serve in the Arizona Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, and she moved to the Pacific Northwest in 2008. In her free time, Erna enjoys getting involved in church activities, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.
Dorene Hackett
HR Operations and Benefits Manager
(509) 527-2141 | dorene.hackett@wallawalla.edu
Dorene joined the Human Resources team in 2024, bringing a decade of experience at Walla Walla University. She most recently served as the assistant director for off-campus housing and earlier as an academy registrar. With an M.B.A., a B.S. in Organizational Behavior and Management, and experience in various business roles and academic support, Dorene brings a well-rounded understanding of business practices, education, and program development.
A native of the Pacific Northwest, Dorene and her husband, Michael, returned to the region from Lodi, California, in 2013. They have two daughters, Dru and Hope. In her free time, Dorene enjoys church activities, cooking, researching her family’s genealogy, and exploring the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
As a devoted member of the WWU community, Dorene values the culture, sense of belonging, and the inspiring faculty and staff who motivate her every day.
Ben Walikonis
HR Intern
(509) 527-2820 | ben.walikonis@wallawalla.edu
Ben joined the Human Resources team in 2026 after graduating from Walla Walla University in 2023 with a B.S. in Business Administration. He comes to HR from his role as Gift Processing Specialist at WWU. Ben brings fresh ideas and perspectives to the team and is excited to continue growing in his career.
Ben was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area and moved to Walla Walla in 2019 as a freshman at WWU. He has called the Walla Walla Valley home ever since and enjoys exploring the many opportunities the area has to offer. In his free time, Ben enjoys producing music, spending time in nature, and connecting with friends and family.
Heidi Lindstrom
Student Employment Specialist
(509) 527-2557 | heidi.lindstrom@wallawalla.edu
Born and raised in the Portland–Vancouver area, Heidi has devoted more than 30 years to education—spanning K–12 and higher education—and currently serves as the Student Employment Manager at Walla Walla University. She began at Clark Community College and later earned a degree in Graphic Design, combining her creativity with her passion for helping students discover their potential.
A proud wife of 34 years, mother of two sons, and grandmother of four, she treasures time with her family above all else. When she’s not connecting with students or colleagues, she enjoys relaxing at the beach, savoring Thai food, and unwinding with either NFL football or The Amazing Race.
Though not raised Adventist, her Christian faith has deepened over the years and continues to guide her life with grace and gratitude. Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: “Nice matters.” She strives to show kindness to everyone she meets, believing that genuine care and compassion can leave a lasting impact wherever she goes.