After an extensive search process with a strong pool of finalists, Julie Furst-Bowe, Ed.D., has been named vice president for Academic Affairs (VPAA) for Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, effective July 1.
Dr. Furst-Bowe is a higher education leader specializing in academic program development, accreditation, and performance excellence. With more than 20 years of experience in senior leadership positions at public and private universities, including most recently as provost at Georgian Court University, as well as Winona State University, Arkansas Tech University, and the University of Wisconsin-Stout; and chancellor at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. She has worked with institutions across the nation and around the globe on academic programming, integrated enrollment management, quality improvement, strategic planning and systems thinking.
Dr. Furst-Bowe currently serves as a peer reviewer and team chair for the Higher Learning Commission. She has served as a Fulbright Specialist in Jordan and Azerbaijan and has been recognized with Fellow status from the American Society for Quality. She received her doctorate in education from the University of Minnesota and was recognized with the University of Minnesota’s Distinguished Alumni Award from the College of Education and Human Development in 2024. Dr. Furst-Bowe has published numerous articles and edited two books on quality improvement in higher education.
“With a distinguished career spanning academic planning, accreditation, and global education, Dr. Furst-Bowe’s extensive background will be a tremendous asset in her role as vice president for Academic Affairs,” said president Father James P. Burns, IVD, Ph.D. “In a time of significant change, Saint Mary’s is fortunate to find a strong leader with both a national and global understanding of the challenges facing higher education institutions today. Her leadership will undoubtedly elevate our academic reputation while remaining steadfastly committed to our Lasallian Catholic mission of preparing ethical, service-driven leaders.”
“I am excited to serve as the vice president for Academic Affairs at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, an institution committed to academic excellence, ethical leadership, and service to others,” said Dr. Furst-Bowe. “I have long been impressed with Saint Mary’s innovation and flexibility in meeting the needs of a wide range of learners.”
