Seattle University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Seattle University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and advancement.

Driven by Jesuit values, Seattle University fosters a commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and service, shaping graduates prepared to address complex global challenges.

Leadership Roles at Seattle University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Stephen Smith
  • Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Christopher Malins
  • Senior Executive Coordinator To the President - Monica Scott
  • President - Stephen Sundborg
  • President - Patrick Cunanan
  • President - Lauren Farricker
  • President - Society of Women Engineers - Frances Pappajohn-Goldade
  • Chief of Staff - Anne Moran
  • Chief of Staff & Associate Provost - David Lance
  • Advancement Chief of Staff - Julie Brady
  • Stephen Smith - Chief Financial Officer

    Stephen Smith, the Chief Financial Officer at Seattle University, manages the institution's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Smith oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability. This executive directs the allocation of financial resources to support academic programs, research endeavors, and campus development. The Chief Financial Officer plays a critical part in developing long-term financial strategies that align with Seattle University's mission and growth objectives. Smith's responsibilities include managing investments, debt, and revenue streams to maximize institutional value. By providing expert financial guidance, Stephen Smith ensures the university operates efficiently and maintains a strong financial foundation for future endeavors. This leadership ensures robust financial stewardship for Seattle University's ongoing success.

    Christopher Malins - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Christopher Malins, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Seattle University, directs comprehensive financial management and strategic fiscal planning. Malins oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting, ensuring robust fiscal responsibility and institutional sustainability. This executive guides the allocation of financial resources to support academic programs, research initiatives, and campus infrastructure development. The Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer is integral in developing long-term financial strategies that align with Seattle University's mission and expansion goals. Malins' purview includes managing investments, debt portfolios, and diverse revenue streams to optimize institutional value. Through expert financial leadership, Christopher Malins ensures the university operates with maximum efficiency and maintains a strong financial bedrock for future achievements. This role guarantees diligent financial stewardship for Seattle University's continued prosperity.

    Monica Scott - Senior Executive Coordinator To the President

    Monica Scott, the Senior Executive Coordinator To the President at Seattle University, provides critical administrative and strategic support to the university's highest office. Scott manages complex scheduling, coordinates high-level meetings, and facilitates communication between the President and various internal and external constituencies. This role is essential for ensuring the efficient operation of the President's office and the seamless execution of institutional priorities. The Senior Executive Coordinator To the President acts as a key liaison, managing sensitive information and ensuring timely follow-through on critical action items. Monica Scott's meticulous organization and proactive approach are vital to supporting the President's leadership agenda. By maintaining operational continuity and facilitating strategic alignment, Scott significantly contributes to Seattle University's governance and advancement. This position ensures effective executive support for the university's vision.

    Stephen Sundborg - President

    Stephen Sundborg, the President at Seattle University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Sundborg guides the university's mission, academic excellence, and community engagement, upholding its Jesuit Catholic tradition. This executive oversees all major university operations, fostering an environment of innovation, inclusivity, and service. The President is responsible for external relations, representing Seattle University to alumni, donors, government bodies, and the broader public. Stephen Sundborg's leadership ensures the university's financial stability and long-term growth, championing its educational impact. By setting institutional goals and inspiring the university community, Sundborg drives progress and upholds the highest standards of academic and ethical conduct. This role is central to Seattle University's identity and its commitment to transformative education.

    Patrick Cunanan - President

    Patrick Cunanan, the President at Seattle University, provides strategic leadership and guides the institution's overall mission and operational framework. Cunanan directs the university's academic endeavors, community outreach, and commitment to its Jesuit values, fostering a culture of scholarly pursuit and ethical development. This executive oversees all facets of university operations, promoting an atmosphere of collaboration, discovery, and social responsibility. The President serves as the primary ambassador for Seattle University, engaging with stakeholders including alumni, benefactors, public officials, and the wider community. Patrick Cunanan's leadership is instrumental in securing the university's financial resilience and advancing its educational impact, advocating for its role in shaping future leaders. By establishing institutional objectives and motivating the university populace, Cunanan propels advancement and maintains rigorous standards in education and integrity. This position is fundamental to Seattle University's core purpose and its dedication to impactful learning.

    Lauren Farricker - President

    Lauren Farricker, the President at Seattle University, spearheads the institution's strategic vision and comprehensive operational management. Farricker leads the university's academic mission, community engagement initiatives, and dedication to its Jesuit heritage, cultivating an environment that champions intellectual curiosity and ethical leadership. This executive directs all university functions, encouraging a spirit of partnership, research, and civic contribution. The President acts as the chief representative for Seattle University, cultivating relationships with key constituents such as alumni, donors, governmental agencies, and the general public. Lauren Farricker's leadership is crucial for ensuring the university's financial strength and amplifying its educational influence, championing its role in developing future leaders. By defining institutional goals and inspiring the university community, Farricker drives progress and upholds stringent standards in education and ethical practice. This role is foundational to Seattle University's ethos and its commitment to profound educational experiences.

    Frances Pappajohn-Goldade - President - Society of Women Engineers

    Frances Pappajohn-Goldade, the President - Society of Women Engineers at Seattle University, leads initiatives focused on advancing women in engineering and technology. Pappajohn-Goldade directs programs and advocacy efforts designed to support female students and professionals in STEM fields, fostering mentorship and professional development. This role involves collaborating with industry partners and academic departments to create opportunities and address systemic challenges. The President - Society of Women Engineers champions initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within engineering disciplines. Frances Pappajohn-Goldade's leadership aims to empower women engineers and enhance their visibility and impact. By driving engagement and fostering a supportive community, Pappajohn-Goldade contributes to the growth and success of women in technical careers. This leadership position is vital for promoting gender equality and innovation in engineering.

    Anne Moran - Chief of Staff

    Anne Moran, the Chief of Staff at Seattle University, directs strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across university departments. Moran coordinates high-level projects, ensuring alignment with the institution's mission and academic goals. This role involves managing critical communications and supporting the President's office in executing institutional priorities. Moran's oversight extends to resource allocation and process improvement, driving operational excellence. The Chief of Staff facilitates collaboration among senior leadership, fostering a cohesive approach to university-wide objectives. By streamlining administrative functions, Anne Moran enhances the university's capacity to serve its students and community effectively. This leadership position is pivotal in translating institutional vision into actionable plans, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and long-term strategic development for Seattle University.

    David Lance - Chief of Staff & Associate Provost

    David Lance, the Chief of Staff & Associate Provost at Seattle University, orchestrates strategic academic initiatives and administrative operations. Lance manages key projects that bridge academic affairs and institutional strategy, ensuring seamless execution of university-wide goals. This dual role involves supporting the Provost in academic planning and overseeing critical administrative functions that enhance the educational experience. The Chief of Staff & Associate Provost facilitates collaboration between academic departments and administrative offices, fostering an environment conducive to scholarly achievement and student success. David Lance's leadership ensures that academic policies and operational frameworks are aligned with Seattle University's Jesuit mission. By driving efficiency and strategic coherence, Lance strengthens the university's capacity for innovation and service. This executive's contributions are vital to advancing Seattle University's academic excellence and operational effectiveness.

    Julie Brady - Advancement Chief of Staff

    Julie Brady, the Advancement Chief of Staff at Seattle University, directs strategic operations within the university's advancement division. Brady oversees key initiatives focused on fundraising, alumni relations, and donor engagement, driving philanthropic support for institutional priorities. This role involves coordinating efforts to strengthen relationships with benefactors and stakeholders, ensuring alignment with Seattle University's mission. The Advancement Chief of Staff plays a crucial part in developing and implementing strategies that enhance the university's financial resources and community partnerships. Julie Brady's leadership ensures efficient management of advancement campaigns and programs, maximizing their impact. By fostering a culture of engagement and support, Brady contributes significantly to Seattle University's long-term growth and success. This executive's focus is on building robust connections that fuel the university's future.

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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 Monica Scott (Senior Executive Coordinator 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), Monica Scott (Senior Executive Coordinator 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, Senior Executive Coordinator To the President, President, President.