In Tough Times Notre Dame Leans Into Mission
For Shannon Cullinan ’93, executive vice president at the University of Notre Dame, there is no challenge Notre Dame cannot navigate—so long as it leans in and stays true to its mission. Join us as Shannon reflects on what drew him to Notre Dame and how he continues to find joy, optimism, and profound hope on campus every day.
Experience the Episode
For Shannon Cullinan ’93, executive vice president at the University of Notre Dame, there is no challenge Notre Dame cannot navigate—so long as it leans in and stays true to its mission.
In this episode of For Good, Shannon discusses the financial headwinds facing Notre Dame—and all of higher education—and shares how the University is well-positioned to weather times of uncertainty thanks to its stable leadership, strategic planning, and unwavering commitment to its people.
Join us as Shannon reflects on what drew him to Notre Dame and how he continues to find joy, optimism, and profound hope on campus every day.
This episode was originally released on October 2, 2025. To explore more, please visit their website.
Meet the Speaker: Shannon Cullinan
Shannon Cullinan was elected executive vice president of the University of Notre Dame effective July 1, 2019, by the University’s Board of Trustees. In this role, Cullinan oversees the University’s $1.9 billion operating budget and leads the divisions that are responsible for operating the University, including University Operations, Events, and Safety; Facilities Design and Operations; Finance; Human Resources; the Office of Information Technology, the Investment Office; and Economic Development.
Previously, Cullinan served as the vice president for finance and associate vice president for University Relations. He earned his master of business administration degree with highest honors from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School. Cullinan and his wife Sarah (ND ’95) have four children.