Seattle University Reappoints Stephen Sundborg as University President

After completing multiple successful terms as President of Seattle University, the University’s Board of Trustees voted to reappoint Father Stephen Sundborg to another five-year term as president. The vote was unanimous and will install Father Steve as President from 2017-22.

To earn the reappointment, the Board reviewed—through in-depth interviews and surveys—President Sundborg’s service, leadership and accomplishments. An outside consultancy was also engaged to oversee the evaluation and ensure the process remained above board.

In a press release from the university, Board Chair Bob Ratliffe talked about the reappointment and affirmed the school’s decision to keep Father Steve as President for another five years.

“Steve has led Seattle University to new heights of excellence and impact over the past two decades,” he said. “Working together with an exceptional faculty and staff, he has extended the reach of SU’s Jesuit Catholic education to more students from more regions, elevated the academic reputation of the university regionally, nationally and internationally, created a mission-driven culture across the campus community, established the nationally recognized Youth Initiative and engineered Seattle U’s return to NCAA Division I athletics. We look forward to Fr. Steve’s continued service as president and working with him over the next five years to build upon an impressive record of achievement.”

Father Stephen Sundborg was initially elected Seattle University President in July 1997. Since becoming president, he has focused on three key objectives:

• Encourage student-centered education
• Enhance academic excellence
• Develop resources to support a growing student population

Sundborg has achieved these goals through the creation of a new law school, student center and student residences. In addition, his tenure has been firmly committed to promoting social justice, and he has actively supported programs that encourage students, faculty and staff to give back to the local community and overseas.

Beyond reappointing Father Sundborg as President, the Board of Trustees also approved two important actions related to socially responsible investing (SRI). The first act was to approve three amendments to the Investment Policy Statement. And, secondly, the Board approved a charter for the new SRI Advisory Working Group.

regions: Seattle

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