Show-Me State Times

William Johnson, J.D., has been appointed as the new rector and vice president of Saint Louis University's Madrid campus. His appointment will take effect on October 1. Johnson, who is currently the dean of the Saint Louis University School of Law, was selected for his unique blend of academic, professional, and personal skills.

SLU Provost Michael Lewis praised Johnson's qualifications for the role. "Bill rightly recognizes the scholarly expertise, teaching excellence, operational prowess, and embodiment of SLU’s institutional Mission among the Madrid campus faculty and staff," Lewis stated. He expressed confidence in Johnson's ability to champion their work and growth.

Johnson's background includes a passion for international engagement that began with an exchange program in West Germany during his youth and continued with graduate studies in The Netherlands. He has held visiting academic positions at universities in Lithuania, Germany, France, and has lectured in Hungary. An expert in international commercial law, particularly contract law, Johnson previously directed SLU's Center for International and Comparative Law.

During his tenure as director of the School of Law’s Summer Law Program in Madrid, he spent four summers developing strong ties with faculty and staff at SLU Madrid. This experience has made him a vocal advocate for recognizing the distinct educational context of the Madrid campus within SLU leadership circles.

Lewis noted that Johnson is well-prepared for success due to his established relationship with the Madrid campus. "He has been a champion of the need to better recognize the Madrid campus’ distinct educational and operational contexts," Lewis said.

Johnson's leadership as dean over seven years was marked by fostering meaningful engagement among faculty and staff amidst transformative changes. "The result was indeed transformation – for the good," Lewis remarked.

The search committee led by Anne McCabe from English and Marta Moreno from Mathematics selected Johnson from numerous candidates. He will succeed interim co-directors Laurie Mazzuca, Francisco García-Serrano, and Victoria Villarreal who have led since May 2023.

Lewis acknowledged their contributions: “Laurie, Paco, and Viki have provided more than just steady leadership since Paul’s departure; they have been able to move important work forward.”