Seattle University Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Seattle University has 10 executives leading key functions including financial management, academic administration, institutional advancement, and presidential operations.

Rooted in Jesuit traditions, Seattle University fosters academic excellence and social justice through a comprehensive educational mission that prepares students for global leadership and community service.

Leadership Roles at Seattle University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Stephen Smith
  • Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Christopher Malins
  • Executive Secretary To the President - Elizabeth Pilati
  • President - Patrick Cunanan
  • President of Board of Regents - Maureen Brotherton
  • President - Stephen Sundborg
  • President - Society of Women Engineers - Frances Pappajohn-Goldade
  • Senior Executive Coordinator To the President - Monica Scott
  • Interim Chief of Staff To the Provost - Laura Knote
  • Advancement Chief of Staff - Julie Brady
  • Stephen Smith - Chief Financial Officer

    Stephen Smith, the Chief Financial Officer at Seattle University, directs all fiscal planning and budgetary oversight for the institution. Managing the university's endowment and operational funds, the Chief Financial Officer ensures long-term economic stability while supporting academic growth. This role involves collaborating with the Board of Regents to align financial resources with the strategic goals of the university. By optimizing capital allocation and monitoring institutional expenditures, Stephen Smith maintains the fiscal health necessary for campus infrastructure development. The Chief Financial Officer also oversees risk management protocols and financial reporting standards to ensure transparency across all departments. Through rigorous analysis of revenue streams and cost-efficiency measures, Smith secures the financial foundation required for the university to thrive within the competitive higher education landscape of the Pacific Northwest.

    Christopher Malins - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Christopher Malins, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Seattle University, manages the comprehensive financial architecture and administrative operations of the institution. Overseeing the integration of fiscal policy with academic priorities, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer drives sustainable growth through strategic investment and resource management. This leadership position involves coordinating with executive teams to evaluate the financial impact of new academic programs and campus initiatives. By streamlining procurement processes and enhancing budgetary controls, Christopher Malins improves operational efficiency across the university. The Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer also monitors regional economic trends to inform long-term planning and institutional resilience. Through meticulous oversight of financial systems, Malins ensures that the university remains well-positioned to fulfill the educational mission while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

    Elizabeth Pilati - Executive Secretary To the President

    Elizabeth Pilati, the Executive Secretary To the President at Seattle University, manages the administrative operations and scheduling for the Office of the President. Coordinating high-level interactions between the President and the Board of Regents, the Executive Secretary To the President ensures that all executive communications remain professional and aligned with the university's mission. This role involves overseeing the flow of information and documentation required for critical decision-making processes. By maintaining the President's calendar and facilitating meetings with internal and external partners, Elizabeth Pilati supports the efficient functioning of the university's top leadership. The Executive Secretary To the President also assists in the preparation of reports and presentations that highlight the institution's achievements. Through meticulous attention to detail and organizational support, Pilati enables the President to focus on strategic leadership and institutional advancement.

    Patrick Cunanan - President

    Patrick Cunanan, the President at Seattle University, provides the overarching strategic vision and leadership for the entire institution. Directing the university's commitment to Jesuit values and academic excellence, the President oversees the implementation of long-term goals that shape the campus culture and educational impact. This leadership role involves engaging with the Board of Regents, faculty, and students to foster an environment of innovation and social justice. By representing the university in regional and national forums, Patrick Cunanan drives the institution's reputation and growth. The President also manages the executive team to ensure alignment across all academic and administrative departments. Through the promotion of inclusive excellence and community service, Cunanan guides the university toward its mission of preparing students for meaningful lives and professional success in a complex global society.

    Maureen Brotherton - President of Board of Regents

    Maureen Brotherton, the President of Board of Regents at Seattle University, leads the governing body responsible for the university's fiduciary oversight and strategic direction. Overseeing the governance process, the President of Board of Regents ensures that all institutional policies align with the university's mission and long-term sustainability. This leadership role involves facilitating discussions among regents to address critical issues such as campus development, financial health, and academic standards. By providing guidance to the executive leadership team, Maureen Brotherton supports the achievement of the university's strategic objectives. The President of Board of Regents also represents the interests of the university to external stakeholders and the broader community. Through effective governance and collaborative decision-making, Brotherton ensures that the institution remains true to its Jesuit identity while adapting to the evolving needs of higher education.

    Stephen Sundborg - President

    Stephen Sundborg, the President at Seattle University, leads the institution's efforts to expand its academic reach and community influence. Focusing on the development of new programs and the enhancement of campus facilities, the President drives the university's growth strategy within the competitive landscape of higher education. This leadership role involves fostering partnerships with local and regional organizations to increase the university's impact on social justice and community development. By overseeing the alignment of academic resources with the institution's core mission, Stephen Sundborg ensures that students receive a high-quality education rooted in Jesuit traditions. The President also works closely with the Board of Regents to secure the financial resources necessary for long-term success. Through dedicated leadership, Sundborg continues to shape the university's role as a leader in education and service.

    Frances Pappajohn-Goldade - President - Society of Women Engineers

    Frances Pappajohn-Goldade, the President - Society of Women Engineers at Seattle University, leads the student-focused organization dedicated to advancing women in engineering and technology fields. Overseeing the development of professional workshops and networking events, the President - Society of Women Engineers drives initiatives that support the academic and career success of female students. This leadership role involves collaborating with faculty and industry partners to provide mentorship and internship opportunities. By promoting inclusivity and technical excellence, Frances Pappajohn-Goldade fosters a supportive community that encourages women to pursue leadership roles in engineering. The President - Society of Women Engineers also manages the organization's outreach efforts to inspire the next generation of engineers. Through active engagement and strategic programming, Pappajohn-Goldade strengthens the presence and influence of women within the university's technical programs.

    Monica Scott - Senior Executive Coordinator To the President

    Monica Scott, the Senior Executive Coordinator To the President at Seattle University, manages the complex administrative requirements and logistical operations for the Office of the President. Coordinating the President's daily activities and high-level engagements, the Senior Executive Coordinator To the President ensures that all executive functions proceed efficiently. This role involves managing correspondence, preparing briefing materials, and facilitating communication between the President and various university stakeholders. By streamlining administrative workflows, Monica Scott enables the President to focus on strategic initiatives and institutional leadership. The Senior Executive Coordinator To the President also assists in the organization of major university events and board meetings. Through proactive management and organizational support, Scott ensures that the Office of the President operates effectively to support the university's mission and long-term goals.

    Laura Knote - Interim Chief of Staff To the Provost

    Laura Knote, the Interim Chief of Staff To the Provost at Seattle University, coordinates the administrative functions and strategic initiatives within the Office of the Provost. Facilitating communication between academic departments and the executive leadership, the Interim Chief of Staff To the Provost ensures the seamless execution of faculty-related policies and academic programs. This role involves managing complex projects that support the university's commitment to Jesuit educational values. By organizing high-level meetings and tracking progress on key academic goals, Laura Knote enables the Provost to focus on curriculum development and faculty excellence. The Interim Chief of Staff To the Provost also assists in the implementation of institutional reforms and academic planning efforts. Through proactive management of administrative workflows, Knote supports the overall success of the academic enterprise and the advancement of student learning outcomes.

    Julie Brady - Advancement Chief of Staff

    Julie Brady, the Advancement Chief of Staff at Seattle University, directs the operational strategy for the university's fundraising and alumni relations divisions. Overseeing the coordination of development campaigns, the Advancement Chief of Staff ensures that philanthropic efforts align with the institution's long-term vision for growth and community impact. This leadership role involves managing internal communications and project timelines for the advancement team to maximize donor engagement. By streamlining administrative processes, Julie Brady facilitates the successful execution of major capital projects and scholarship initiatives. The Advancement Chief of Staff also collaborates with university leadership to cultivate relationships with key stakeholders and supporters. Through the effective management of advancement resources, Brady strengthens the financial support network necessary for the university to continue providing high-quality education and service to the broader community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Seattle University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Seattle University?
    Seattle University is led by Stephen Smith (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Christopher Malins (Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer) and Elizabeth Pilati (Executive Secretary To the President).
    Who is part of Seattle University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Seattle University includes leaders such as Stephen Smith (Chief Financial Officer), Christopher Malins (Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer), Elizabeth Pilati (Executive Secretary To the President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Seattle University have?
    Seattle University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Seattle University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Seattle University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Executive Secretary To the President, President, President of Board of Regents.