Dear Members of the University Community,
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Matthew Shank, PhD, as interim president of St. Edward’s University. He will begin a transition period on June 1 and assume the interim presidency on July 1.
Dr. Shank brings to this role a distinguished record of higher education leadership, including seven years as President of Marymount University in Virginia. He has also served as president of the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges, dean of the School of Business Administration at the University of Dayton and held faculty and administrative roles at Northern Kentucky University. He leads with a clear commitment to academic excellence and a steady, mission-centered approach to institutional stewardship.
At a time when universities across the country are navigating profound change, the Board is confident that Dr. Shank can provide the clarity, stability and forward momentum our institution needs.
During the interview process, leaders from across the university and our shared governance groups spoke highly of Dr. Shank’s thoughtfulness, judgment and collaborative style. We are grateful for their input, and the Board enthusiastically agreed that he is well-positioned to lead St. Edward’s during this interim period.
Dr. Shank has a deep respect for our mission and for the people who bring it to life each day—our students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners. Under his leadership, we will continue advancing the university’s distinctive Holy Cross mission and liberal arts identity while expanding our impact in service to students and society.
This summer, we will create both formal and informal opportunities for the community to meet Dr. Shank and begin the relationship-building that will matter most in the months ahead.
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Shank as interim president. We are excited about his leadership in the period ahead and will begin the search for a permanent president, with plans to launch that process in spring 2027.
With appreciation and confidence,
