President Jan Cervelli has named George Keegan special assistant to the president for strategic initiatives, effective Monday, January 16.

George Keegan

In his new role, Keegan will work closely with Cervelli to advance College initiatives that require the president’s attention with respect to strategic initiatives and investments. He will help faculty and staff conceptualize and develop innovative academic programs, impactful community and industry partnerships, and align strategic initiatives with resources that advance the College’s mission. 

Before joining Saint Mary’s, Keegan served for nearly a decade as senior director of academic advancement and senior director of corporate and foundation relations at the University of Notre Dame where he provided strategic oversight for corporate and foundation relations as well as interdisciplinary academic initiatives. He also worked as the executive director for the Edison Innovation Foundation to support ongoing fundraising needs of the Thomas Edison National Historical Park, and as a fiscal manager for the Diocese of Saint Augustine.

“I’m delighted that George Keegan has agreed to become my special assistant for strategic initiatives,” Cervelli said. “He will serve as a bridge working across College divisions and academic departments focusing on targeted areas of institutional strength and opportunity. His proven talent make him spectacularly well qualified for this appointment. He will hit the ground running.”  

Keegan earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame in 1995 and also holds a master of arts in teaching from the University of Portland and a master of business administration from the University of Florida. 

“I am honored to serve Saint Mary’s in this new role,” Keegan said. “I look forward to working with President Cervelli and colleagues across campus to advance cross-departmental initiatives in support of the College.”