Susan R. Burns is the sixth president of the University of Mount Saint Vincent, where she champions the transformative power of the liberal arts and a strong commitment to access, equity, and student success. Since joining in 2021, she has led a period of strategic growth and innovation, including the University’s 2024 transition from college to university status, the launch of a new academic school structure, and the creation of Seton College—an associate degree program designed to support students with high academic need.

Under her leadership, the University has expanded academic offerings, strengthened partnerships across the Bronx community, and advanced initiatives in the arts and healthcare education, including the launch of a physician assistant master’s program. She has also overseen significant campus improvements and funding efforts while deepening the institution’s mission in partnership with the Sisters of Charity of New York.

A nationally recognized psychologist and educator, Dr. Burns is an accomplished scholar and author who remains active in mentoring student research and publication. She holds degrees from Emporia State University and Kansas State University and previously served in senior academic leadership roles at Clarke University and Morningside College.

Harrison Keller serves as the 17th president of the University of North Texas, the third-largest university in Texas and flagship of the UNT System. Since assuming the role in August 2024, he has focused on advancing student success and elevating UNT’s national profile in academic and research excellence.

A recognized leader in higher education policy and innovation, Keller most recently served as Commissioner of Higher Education and CEO of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, where he led statewide efforts to improve college readiness and student outcomes, particularly for low-income and first-generation students.

Previously, he held multiple leadership roles at the University of Texas at Austin, including Deputy to the President for Strategy and Policy and Vice Provost for Higher Education Policy and Research. His career also includes experience in state government and teaching roles at Georgetown University, St. Edward’s University, and UT Austin.

Keller earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame and his master’s and Ph.D. in philosophy from Georgetown University. He also served as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve for a decade. He and his wife, Gena, have three children.