In January 2019, Dr. Matthew Shank became the eighth President of the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges (VFIC).  The mission of the VFIC is to advance the distinctive values and strengths of sixteen, independent member colleges and universities in Virginia.  Prior to the VFIC, Dr.  Shank became Marymount University’s sixth president in July 2011 and stepped down to become President Emeritus in June 2018.  Before serving as President, Dr. Shank was the Dean of the School of Business at the University of Dayton.

In recognition of his work, Dr. Shank accepted the World Affairs Council – DC Global Educator of the Year Award.  He has also received the Robert Ball Lifetime Achievement Award from the Ballston Business Improvement District, the Edu-Futuro Community Partner Award and earned the distinction of Visiting Distinguished Professor – National University of Public Service, Budapest, Hungary.

Dr. Shank currently serves on several non-profit boards including: Arlington Free Clinic (advisory); Arlington Public Schools (advisory); Path Forward (advisory); American University in the Emirates, Dubai; Cristo Rey High School; Dream Project (advisory); Leadership Center for Excellence (advisory); National Catholic Education Association; Northern Virginia Community College Foundation; Youth Apostles; and Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School.

An accomplished scholar, Dr. Shank has published numerous articles, presented at many conferences, and is the author of the book Sports Marketing: A Strategic Perspective (6th Edition). He has consulted with over 75 organizations in the areas of marketing research, strategic planning, and marketing strategy.