WINONA, Minn. – Saint Mary’s University has a new chief academic officer. Max Bonilla most recently was the international director for the Expanded Reason Institute at University Francisco de Vitoria in Spain. Bonilla joins Saint Mary’s in the middle of major curriculum overhaul that has eliminated several academic majors and included massive faculty layoffs. The university’s president, James Burns, who engineered the downsizing, announced Bonilla’s appointment. Bonilla said he fully support the university’s strategic plans. His title will be provost and dean of faculties.
Bonilla. A graduate in educational nanagement at Harvard University. Advanced degree in 2000 from Gregorian University in Rome in Biblical theology. Has been at University Francisco de Vitoria in Madrid since 2018.
Verbatim
Bonilla: “As I learned of the heritage, legacy and teaching philosophy that grounds Saint Mary’s University, I recognized the same inspiring fundamentals that have informed my own educational approach throughout my career: The dignity of every person; the essential importance of community; the great need for character education and ethical formation; and the ever-present need for a practical, accessible education.”
Verbatim
Burns: “Saint Mary’s, like most higher education institutions, is facing significant industry change and challenge, and we are fortunate to find a leader who has a demonstrated track record of innovative thinking that has advanced and helped stabilize several institutions. I am confident he will elevate the reputation and recognition of our academic programs on a regional and national level, and most importantly, he has expressed how deeply he values and relates to our mission and our Lasallian Catholic heritage.”