LOUISIVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Bellarmine University President Susan M. Donovan announced Wednesday afternoon she will retire next year after a decade in the role.
According to a news release from the university Wednesday, Donavan will retire following the expiration of her contract in the summer of 2027. She said this was "the right time to step away," because her plan since her presidency began was to work for 10 more years before retiring from higher education.
Donovan became Bellarmine's fourth president in 2017. During her tenure, she most notably contributed to the university's most successful fundraising year in the school's history in 2024. In 2025, Bellarmine was nationally recognized as a Carnegie "Opportunity College," and also earned the Carnegie Community Engagement Classification.
The university also noted Donovan's leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of a strategic plan Bellarmine has worked under since 2019. Additionally, she helped elevate the athletics program to an NCAA Division I distinction in 2020.
Prior to her presidency at Bellarmine, Donovan spent three decades at Loyola University as executive vice president, and at one point acting president.
"I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve Bellarmine University and the remarkable community that defines it over the past decade," Donovan said in the release. "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."
Bellarmine's Board of Trustees said they will launch a national search for the next president in the coming year. Details about this search process, including timeline and opportunities for community engagement, will be announced at the start of the 2026-27 academic year.
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