New structure unifies key advisory boards, including alumni and athletics

Bellarmine University today announced the Bellarmine President's Council (BPC), a new volunteer leadership structure led by the Office of Development and Alumni Relations. The Council brings together leaders from the Alumni Board, Advancement Board, B Club, reunion committees, the Rubel School of Business Advisory Board, and other volunteer groups in a coordinated structure designed to strengthen collaboration and communication.  

The President’s Council will provide a coordinated approach to advancing Bellarmine's mission, strategic priorities, and long-term goals. The council will ensure volunteer leaders serve as informed ambassadors for the university – expanding alumni and donor outreach, increasing engagement and participation, and fostering lifelong connections with Bellarmine. 

Paul Burke, a 1999 Bellarmine graduate and former student-athlete who currently serves on the Bellarmine Advancement Board as part of his longtime service to Bellarmine, sees significant opportunity in the formation of the new Bellarmine President’s Council. 

"The Bellarmine President's Council gives alumni and friends a clear and meaningful way to align their service with the mission of the university we love," said Burke. "By uniting our boards and committees under one structure, we can continue to serve as informed ambassadors, expand our reach, and create new opportunities for Knights to connect, mentor, and give back. There has never been a better time to be engaged with this university, and I am proud to help lead this new effort." 

The Council will convene its first meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026. 

Abby Martin has been named Associate Director of Alumni Relations for Volunteer Engagement & Reunions, a newly created role dedicated to recruiting, supporting and developing volunteer leaders, coordinating reunion programs and building pathways for lifelong connection across the Bellarmine community. She will serve as the primary staff advisor to the President’s Council’s volunteer leaders and board liaisons. 

"Bellarmine's greatest strength is its people,” said Martin. “The President's Council creates a more strategic approach to volunteer engagement by bringing together leaders who are passionate about advancing the university's mission. By investing in those relationships, we can build an even stronger Bellarmine for future generations.” 

Bellarmine is actively recruiting alumni, parents, and friends to serve on volunteer boards and advisory groups. Additional opportunities will be announced in the coming months as the President's Council is fully implemented. Individuals interested in volunteer service are encouraged to contact Abby Martin at amartin20@bellarmine.edu or 502-272-8488.