President Donovan Set to Retire in 2027
In April, Dr. Susan M. Donovan announced plans to retire at the conclusion of her contract in the summer of 2027. Her departure will mark a decade of transformative leadership that has strengthened the university’s mission, expanded opportunities for students, and positioned Bellarmine for continued success.
Donovan, who became the university’s fourth president in 2017, has led a period of strategic growth and national recognition, anchored by a steadfast commitment to student success and academic excellence, informed by the Catholic intellectual tradition.
“Dr. Donovan’s leadership has been exemplary,” said Donald Kelly, chair of Bellarmine’s Board of Trustees. “Over the past decade, she has advanced a bold vision for Bellarmine rooted in student success and mission-driven excellence. From tough choices to strengthen our post-COVID financial foundation to elevating our academic profile and expanding opportunities for our students, her impact will be felt for generations. We are deeply grateful for her leadership in shaping both our present and our future.”
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve Bellarmine University and the remarkable community that defines it over the past decade,” Donovan said.
“This institution’s commitment to educating students in mind, body, and spirit — and to preparing them for meaningful lives and rewarding careers — has guided every decision we’ve made. Together, we have strengthened Bellarmine’s foundation and expanded its impact, and I am confident the university’s best days are ahead. This work has been the pinnacle of my career.”
Donovan added that this was the right time to step away, noting that her plan when she accepted the Bellarmine presidency was to work for 10 years before retiring from higher education.
The university’s Board of Trustees is engaged in a comprehensive national search for the next president.
A Decade of Leadership: Key Accomplishments at Bellarmine
Tradition & Transformation
Bellarmine’s 2019 strategic plan has served as a guiding framework, aligning academic innovation, student success, and operational priorities, ensuring disciplined decision-making and measurable institutional progress.
NCAA Division I Athletics
A successful transition to NCAA Division I in 2020 as a member of the Atlantic Sun Conference enhanced the national visibility, strengthened school spirit, and expanded opportunities for student-athletes. Donovan chaired the Council of Presidents for three years.
Philanthropic Momentum
Unprecedented philanthropic growth, including the most successful fundraising year in history provided a strong foundation for the launch of a comprehensive fundraising campaign. The campaign, which launched last October, has raised $66 million of its $75 million goal so far.
National Recognition
The designation “Opportunity College and University – Higher Access, Higher Earnings,” placed Bellarmine among a select group of institutions acclaimed for fostering student success and advancing economic mobility. This distinction reflects the university’s commitment to access, affordability, and strong student outcomes.
Unrivaled Career Outcomes
Bellarmine strengthened its position as a leader in career readiness and student outcomes. Consistently, 99% of graduates are employed or pursuing advanced education within six months of commencement, with 97% working in their field, an outcome that is 15% higher than average for U.S. colleges and universities.
Leadership During the Pandemic
Donovan guided Bellarmine through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading a transition to remote learning in just one week while maintaining academic continuity and student support. Steady leadership ensured the university’s resilience and mission.
Financial Health & Institutional Stability
Early in Donovan’s presidency, Bellarmine’s financial standing improved through debt reduction and increased endowment, creating a stronger financial foundation for long-term growth and strategic investment.
Campus & Strategic Assets
An expanded physical footprint includes the acquisition of the Watterson Medical Center, strengthening Bellarmine’s presence in healthcare education and community partnerships, and reflecting a broader strategy of aligning campus resources with academic and workforce priorities.
Community Engagement & Regional Impact
A deepened role as a community partner strengthens relationships with employers, civic organizations, and regional leaders; reinforces the university’s mission as a private institution serving the common good; and contributes to national recognition for community engagement.
Catholic Identity & Mission
Donovan consistently emphasized Bellarmine’s Catholic identity, rooted in the inclusive spirit of Thomas Merton and the tradition of educating students in mind, body, and spirit. Her leadership strengthened campus ministry, mission integration, and a shared commitment to forming ethical, compassionate leaders.
Student Access
Significant progress in enrolling a more diverse and representative student population, including first-generation students and those eligible for Pell Grants, reflects the university’s mission and contributes to its strong outcomes in student success and upward mobility.
More to Come
With a full academic year ahead in President Donovan’s tenure, there will be more successes across campus. Watch Bellarmine media and the next issue of Bellarmine Magazine for a final farewell and celebration