The Saint Joseph’s University Board of Trustees elected Cheryl A. McConnell its 29th — and first female — president in the university’s 172-year history, effective immediately.

McConnell is a 35-year veteran of Jesuit higher education, having most recently served as Saint Joseph’s interim president since last June, and as provost and chief academic officer for three years prior.

“Dr. McConnell is the right person to lead Saint Joseph’s at this time of exceptional change,” says James M. Norris, chair of the university’s Board of Trustees and also chair of the search committee.

McConnell joined Saint Joseph’s in 2019, immediately accelerating academic and student-life goals and initiatives as part of the university’s strategic plan.

Among her most notable achievements are:

• The creation of several undergraduate and graduate programs in response to market demand, societal need, and the university’s mission
• Sharpening focus on diversity, equity and inclusion
• Taking a leadership role in the SJU COVID-19 response
• Leading the acquisition of the University of the Sciences

Before her arrival at Saint Joseph’s, McConnell held several leadership positions at Rockhurst University, a Jesuit institution in Kansas City.

_____

Hear Cheryl A. McConnell, in her role as provost and vice president for academic affairs, discuss women’s roles in leadership.