Susan M. Donovan, the fourth president of Bellarmine University in Louisville, Kentucky, has announced she will retire at the conclusion of her contract at the end of the 2026-27 academic year.
Dr. Donovan began her tenure at Bellarmine in 2017. Over the past decade, the university has elevated its athletics programs to NCAA Division I status, aligned its academic offerings with regional workforce needs, and strengthened its partnerships with the local Louisville community. Under Dr. Donovan’s leadership, Bellarmine experienced its most successful fundraising and philanthropic campaigns.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve Bellarmine University and the remarkable community that defines it over the past decade,” said Dr. Donovan. “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.”
Dr. Donovan earned her bachelor’s degree in communications from Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, Iowa. She holds a master’s degree in higher education from Florida State University and a Ph.D. in higher education from St. Louis University in Missouri. Prior to her time with Bellarmine, Dr. Donovan spent 32 years at Loyola University Maryland, where she ultimately served as executive vice president and had a stint as acting president in 2015.