Gonzalo Mendieta has served as Rector of Universidad de las Américas since August 2019. He previously served as Academic Vice Rector beginning in 2013.

Before joining UDLA, he held several leadership roles at Universidad San Francisco de Quito, including Dean for Academic Affairs, Director of Institutional Effectiveness, Dean of the College of Culinary Arts and Science, and Dean of the School of Technology. He also served as President of Universidad San Francisco Florida.

Dr. Mendieta holds a PhD in Statistics from the University of Iowa and an MS from Purdue University. He has held academic position at universities in Ecuador and the United States and has been a guest lecturer in Sweden. He has taught courses in statistics, mathematics, econometrics, and market research.

In addition to his academic work, Dr. Mendieta has consulted in statistical modelling, market research, epidemiology, system engineering, and human factors.
His current interests include future trends in higher education, particularly the role of technology in management and academic processes in higher education.

Outside of his professional work, he enjoys cooking and wine testing.

Current Term

2026-2029