Mobile, Ala. — Spring Hill College announces the renewal of President Dr. Mary Van Brunt’s contract for an additional five years, reinforcing the College’s commitment to bold leadership and strategic growth as it approaches its 200th anniversary in 2031.
Since becoming the first female president of Spring Hill College in January 2023, Dr. Van Brunt has ushered in a new era of transformation for Alabama’s oldest Catholic college — one marked by expanded academic offerings, significant philanthropic support, and new facilities that will shape the future of higher education on The Hill.
Under her leadership, the College has broken ground on the new Health and Science Innovation Center, a state-of-the-art facility designed to prepare students for careers in healthcare, science, and research. The center will serve as a cornerstone of the College’s long-term vision to address critical workforce needs and enhance academic excellence.
“We are thrilled to extend Dr. Van Brunt’s contract and reaffirm our belief in her inspiring and effective leadership,” said Patti Kane, Chair of the Spring Hill College Board of Trustees. “From securing transformational gifts to launching new academic partnerships and facilities, her impact has been nothing short of extraordinary.”
Since she arrived at Spring Hill College in 2023, Dr. Van Brunt has secured $13 million in gifts to support the Presidential Leadership Fund and drive strategic initiatives, including the new Health and Science Innovation Center.
“The Trustees’ renewal of Dr. Mary Van Brunt’s contract is an affirmation of the steady, thoughtful leadership she has brought to Spring Hill College. She’s tackled real challenges head-on and laid the groundwork for a promising future. I’m proud to support her continued work on behalf of the College,” said Mobile County Commissioner Connie Hudson, who represents District 2, which includes Spring Hill College.
Dr. Van Brunt has also solidified three new academic agreements with Rockhurst University that will expand Spring Hill’s academic reach and provide students with direct access to advanced degrees in high-demand healthcare fields. These include:
● Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) pathway
● Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) pathway
● Course Sharing Consortium that increases curriculum flexibility and course availability for students
“These new programs and partnerships are a reflection of our deep commitment to innovation and student success,” said Dr. Van Brunt. “Together with our supporters and academic partners, we are creating powerful pathways for students to thrive — in Mobile and beyond.”
As Spring Hill College prepares to celebrate its 200th anniversary, the renewal of Dr. Van Brunt’s leadership, the momentum of record-breaking philanthropy, and the launch of visionary academic and capital initiatives mark a new chapter of growth and excellence for the College.
ABOUT SPRING HILL COLLEGE
Founded in 1830, Spring Hill College is the oldest institution of higher learning in Alabama, the oldest Catholic college in the Southeast and the third oldest Jesuit college in the United States. Spring Hill combines the Jesuit tradition of excellence in education and a commitment to caring for the whole person — mind, body and spirit — with innovative educational experiences. Located in Mobile, Alabama, Spring Hill’s mission is to form leaders engaged in learning, faith, justice and service for life. As a result, Spring Hill students are engaged, inspired and transformed by their experiences.