St. Norbert College officials confirmed today that Brian Bruess has been appointed as the next president, effective July 1, 2017.
Bruess will succeed Thomas Kunkel, who has led the college for the past nine years.
"It’s a most significant distinction to follow President Tom Kunkel, a person I respect so deeply. The entire St. Norbert community is indebted to Tom for the extraordinary leadership he’s shown the college.”
Bruess was introduced to the college and local community at Old St. Joseph Church at 10:00 a.m. today.
"The list of potential candidates was long and included several sitting presidents," said Jay Williams, a chair member of the search committee. "Through this process, Dr. Bruess reflected the skill, the passion, the vision, and most important the values, to be the right leader to continue the success of President Kunkel.”
Bruess, a 1990 graduate of St. Norbert, is only the second St. Norbert graduate to hold the position of president. The Rev. Dennis Burke, O. Praem.,’26, was the first.
Bruess has served in various leadership roles in his 21-year tenure at St. Catherine University in St. Paul, Minn. He is currently executive vice president and chief operating officer. During his career at St. Kate’s, Bruess has been responsible for multiple areas including enrollment management, student affairs, information technology, athletics, finance and administration.
“As a community, we look forward to working with Brian in sharing and growing the Norbertine tradition and values at St. Norbert College,” said Abbot Gary Neville.
