Between 2022 and 2025, the Province worked to move from primarily informal leadership practices toward a more aligned and collaborative model. Through clearer roles, common priorities, and regular planning processes, provincial leaders have strengthened unity while respecting the diversity of local contexts. The emphasis has been not simply organizational efficiency, but missionary fidelity—ensuring that Salesian works remain vibrant and capable of serving young people for generations to come.
A key development during this period has been the introduction of executive leadership coaching led by the Provincial, Fr. Mel Trinidad. Through regular accompaniment and structured dialogue with delegates, coordinators, and directors, the initiative has fostered greater clarity, accountability, and teamwork within the Salesian Leadership Team (SLT). This approach reflects a leadership style rooted in listening, guidance, and shared discernment.
Concrete fruits of this process include improved coordination among ministries, the development of a welcoming manual for new missionaries, strengthened regional planning, and enhanced support structures for ongoing formation. The Province has also invested in strengthening its development and communication efforts, including the appointment of a dedicated development leader and the creation of new resources to sustain ministries and outreach.
This renewed culture of collaboration has begun to generate new missionary initiatives. Among them are expanded support for the Salesian Youth Leadership Conference (SYLC) and the organization of a short‑term missionary experience in Medellín, Colombia, involving youth ministry, mission animation, and volunteer programs.
Looking ahead, the Province continues to prioritize formation, shared responsibility, and relational leadership. The experience of recent years affirms that when leadership is lived as accompaniment, the mission is strengthened and young people remain at the center.
Salesian Leadership Team – USA West Province
Fr. Mel Trinidad – Provincial
Fr. John Itzaina – Vice Provincial
Fr. Fabian Cardenas – Delegate of Youth Ministry
Fr. Michael Gergen – Provincial Council Member
Fr. Kristian Laygo – Delegate of Formation
Bro. Tom Mass – Provincial Economer
Bro. Alphonce Vu – Leadership Team Member
Gina Robles – Youth Ministry Associate
Dani Snow – Director of Philanthropy
Julie LaNasa – Strategic Consultant to the Provincial
JC Montenegro – Delegate of Mission Animation
