President Stephen V. Sundborg, S.J. will retire from Seattle University on June 30, 2021. During his 24 year tenure as president, his vision and deep commitment to developing and advancing Seattle University’s mission has physically and foundationally transformed our campus and the surrounding community.

The Student Center, Sullivan Hall (School of Law), Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons, several student-housing buildings, and the new Jim and Janet Sinegal Center for Science and Innovation reflect Fr. Sundborg’s vision for creating a modern campus for learning and engagement, and his commitment to supporting and lifting up the community is embodied in signature projects and programs like the Center for Community Engagement and Seattle University Youth Initiative.

Three funds have been created for Seattle University alumni and friends who wish to make a gift to honor Fr. Sundborg’s legacy and expand upon his impact and commitment to community engagement and the Jesuit mission and presence at Seattle U.

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Father Steve chats with a group of students

The Seattle University Community Engagement Endowed Fund

This fund will provide operational support for community engagement activities and programs of the Fr. Stephen Sundborg, S.J. Center for Community Engagement, including the Seattle University Youth Initiative, and further Seattle U's efforts to positively transform the University and its communities through deepening student learning, creating a culture of service, and promoting a more just and humane world. Learn more about the Fr. Stephen Sundborg, S.J. Center for Community Engagement and the Seattle University Youth Initiative.

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The Sundborg Fund for Community Business Impact 

The Sundborg Fund for Community Business Impact will build upon and amplify the community work that Fr. Sundborg has so passionately championed as president. Gifts to this fund will support the Albers School of Business and Economics’ efforts to build capacity for entrepreneurial leadership in students and local microenterprises through programs like the Resource Amplification and Management Program (RAMP-up), providing students with experiential learning opportunities to help small BIPOC owned businesses improve and grow their companies. Learn more about the RAMP-up program.

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Stephen V. Sundborg Endowment for Jesuit Teaching and Ministry

Seattle U’s Jesuit presence has been a touchstone that preserves, animates and perpetuates the distinctive education that lies at our core, differentiating us among universities. The Endowment for Jesuit Teaching and Ministry will further Seattle University’s Jesuit tradition of excellence in education, teaching and service in perpetuity, assuring our ability to recruit, welcome and employ Jesuits on the Seattle U campus. Read about the ways in which Seattle University supports and fosters a deeper understanding of Jesuit mission through programs, services and teaching.

“I AM PRIMARILY AND DEEPLY A JESUIT, AND I BRING THAT TO EVERYTHING I DO.”

STEPHEN V. SUNDBORG, S.J., PRESIDENT

Fr. Sundborg’s retirement announcement and reflections on his 24 years as president of Seattle University.

Read the Seattle U Board of Trustees resolution honoring Fr. Sundborg.

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