Seattle University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence and social justice, Seattle University fosters a transformative educational experience, preparing students to lead with purpose and create a more just and humane world.

Leadership Roles at Seattle University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Stephen Smith
  • Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Christopher Malins
  • President - Society of Women Engineers - Frances Pappajohn-Goldade
  • President - Stephen Sundborg
  • President of Board of Regents - Maureen Brotherton
  • President - Lauren Farricker
  • Senior Executive Coordinator To the President - Monica Scott
  • 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, directs the institution's financial strategy and operations. Overseeing all fiscal activities, Smith ensures robust financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation to support Seattle University's educational mission and long-term sustainability. This leadership involves managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions and stakeholders. Smith's oversight extends to financial reporting, compliance, and the implementation of sound financial policies across all departments. The Chief Financial Officer's role is critical in maintaining the university's financial health and enabling strategic growth initiatives. Stephen Smith drives fiscal responsibility, ensuring that financial resources effectively support academic programs and campus development.

    Christopher Malins - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Christopher Malins, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Seattle University, oversees the comprehensive financial operations of the institution. Malins directs financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and treasury functions, ensuring fiscal integrity and strategic resource allocation. This role is pivotal in managing the university's financial health, supporting academic initiatives, and driving sustainable growth. The Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer collaborates with executive leadership to develop financial strategies that align with Seattle University's mission and long-term objectives. Christopher Malins ensures robust financial management, providing the necessary resources and oversight to advance the university's educational and research endeavors.

    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 champions programs that foster professional development, networking, and mentorship for students and professionals within the engineering field. This leadership role involves strategic planning for the society's activities, promoting diversity and inclusion, and advocating for equitable opportunities in STEM. The President - Society of Women Engineers collaborates with academic departments and industry partners to enhance educational experiences and career pathways. Frances Pappajohn-Goldade drives engagement and support for women in engineering, contributing to a more diverse and innovative future in the field.

    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 programs, and community engagement, fostering an environment of intellectual inquiry and Jesuit values. This role involves overseeing all university operations, from academic affairs to campus development, and ensuring alignment with the institution's core principles. The President works closely with the Board of Regents, faculty, staff, and students to advance Seattle University's goals. Stephen Sundborg champions the university's commitment to social justice, academic excellence, and holistic student development, shaping its future impact.

    Maureen Brotherton - President of Board of Regents

    Maureen Brotherton, the President of Board of Regents at Seattle University, provides critical governance and strategic oversight for the institution. Brotherton leads the Board in its fiduciary responsibilities, ensuring the university operates effectively and ethically to fulfill its mission. This leadership position involves guiding policy development, approving major institutional decisions, and ensuring the long-term financial health and strategic direction of Seattle University. The President of Board of Regents collaborates closely with the university President to align governance with operational execution. Maureen Brotherton upholds the highest standards of institutional governance, safeguarding Seattle University's mission and its commitment to academic excellence and social responsibility.

    Lauren Farricker - President

    Lauren Farricker, the President at Seattle University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution of the institution. Farricker oversees all facets of university life, ensuring academic rigor, student success, and community impact align with Seattle University's Jesuit Catholic mission. This leadership role involves fostering innovation in teaching and research, cultivating a diverse and inclusive campus environment, and strengthening external partnerships. The President works collaboratively with university leadership, faculty, staff, and stakeholders to advance institutional goals. Lauren Farricker drives Seattle University's commitment to preparing students for lives of purpose, leadership, and service in a complex world.

    Monica Scott - Senior Executive Coordinator To the President

    Monica Scott, the Senior Executive Coordinator To the President at Seattle University, provides essential administrative and operational support to the university's highest leadership position. Scott manages complex scheduling, coordinates executive communications, and facilitates the smooth execution of presidential initiatives. This role is vital in ensuring the President's agenda is managed efficiently and effectively, supporting strategic decision-making and institutional progress. The Senior Executive Coordinator To the President acts as a key point of contact, streamlining workflows and enhancing organizational productivity. Monica Scott ensures the President's office operates with maximum efficiency, directly contributing to Seattle University's strategic objectives and operational success.

    Anne Moran - Chief of Staff

    Anne Moran, the Chief of Staff at Seattle University, provides strategic support and operational leadership to the university's executive team. Moran coordinates key initiatives, manages cross-departmental projects, and facilitates communication between various university divisions. This role involves streamlining operations, enhancing organizational efficiency, and ensuring the effective execution of strategic priorities. The Chief of Staff acts as a key liaison, bridging communication gaps and fostering collaboration among leadership. Moran's responsibilities include preparing executive briefings, managing schedules, and ensuring that the President's agenda is advanced effectively. Anne Moran drives operational excellence, supporting the President in achieving Seattle University's mission and vision through coordinated executive action.

    David Lance - Chief of Staff & Associate Provost

    David Lance, the Chief of Staff & Associate Provost at Seattle University, integrates strategic administrative functions with academic oversight. Lance manages critical projects that bridge administrative operations and academic planning, ensuring alignment with the university's mission. This dual role involves enhancing institutional effectiveness through coordinated efforts in both finance and academic affairs. The Chief of Staff & Associate Provost oversees the implementation of key university policies and initiatives, driving progress in academic program development and operational efficiency. David Lance's leadership ensures that administrative structures robustly support Seattle University's educational and research endeavors, fostering an environment conducive to scholarly achievement and student success.

    Julie Brady - Advancement Chief of Staff

    Julie Brady, the Advancement Chief of Staff at Seattle University, spearheads strategic initiatives within the university's advancement division. Brady focuses on enhancing fundraising efforts, cultivating donor relationships, and managing campaigns that support Seattle University's growth and academic programs. This leadership position involves coordinating development activities, aligning advancement strategies with institutional goals, and ensuring effective communication with stakeholders. The Advancement Chief of Staff plays a crucial part in securing the financial resources necessary for scholarships, faculty support, and campus improvements. Julie Brady drives the success of advancement operations, strengthening the university's financial foundation through strategic engagement and philanthropic support.

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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 Frances Pappajohn-Goldade (President - Society of Women Engineers).
    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), Frances Pappajohn-Goldade (President - Society of Women Engineers) 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, President - Society of Women Engineers, President, President of Board of Regents.