Dr. Sinda K. Vanderpool
President, University of St. Thomas
Dr. Sinda K. Vanderpool became the 10th President of the University of St. Thomas in 2025, bringing more than 20 years of leadership in Catholic and Christian higher education. She previously served as President and Vice-Chancellor of St. Mary’s University in Calgary and spent 18 years at Baylor University advancing student success, most recently as Associate Vice Provost. A scholar of French literature, Dr. Vanderpool earned her Ph.D. from Princeton University and her B.A. from Davidson College. She has been recognized with the URSA Leadership Award and is active in national higher education organizations. At UST, she is leading efforts to strengthen the Catholic mission, expand academic excellence, and broaden access and opportunity for students.
Executive Leadership
Dawn Koenning, Sr. Vice President of University Advancement & External Relations
Jose Luis Del Aguila, Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer
John A. Palasota, Ph.D., Interim Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs, Professor of Chemistry
Deans
Dr. Claudine Dufrene, Dean of the Carol and Odis Peavy School of Nursing
Bob Keith, Dean of the Cameron School of Business
Dr. Ana-Lisa Gonzalez, Dean of the School of Education and Human Services
Jim Piccininni, Dean of Doherty Library and Beran Library
Dr. Nicole Walters, Dean of the Kolbe School of Innovation and Professional Studies