Mark Austin, ScM — Staff ; Senior Director, Global Engagement ; Office of Global Engagement - Office of the Provost ; Areas of Expertise: Global Development | Strategic Planning | Resource Mobilization | Diplomacy | Equitable Access .

Mark Austin joins Seattle University as Associate Vice Provost and Chief Global Engagement Officer, bringing more than 25 years of international leadership experience spanning higher education, global development, diplomacy, and strategic partnerships across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.

Throughout his career, Mark has advised senior leaders in the U.S. government, foreign governments, international organizations, universities, and civil society institutions on issues ranging from education and global health to economic development and humanitarian response. A former Fulbright Fellow fluent in Arabic and German, he has built and led cross-cultural partnerships that advance institutional capacity, foster innovation, and create opportunities for learning, collaboration, and social impact in some of the world's most complex environments.

His leadership experience includes contributions to major international initiatives such as the White House Global Health Initiative, President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, and recovery and resilience efforts in conflict-affected regions. Known for his collaborative leadership style, Mark has a distinguished record of bringing diverse stakeholders together to advance shared goals, strengthen institutions, and expand international engagement.

At Seattle University, Mark will lead the university's global engagement strategy, cultivating partnerships with academic institutions, industry leaders, and organizations around the world. His work will focus on expanding global opportunities for university engagement with mission-driven partners who share the university's Jesuit mission of educating leaders for a just and humane world through global citizenship, intercultural understanding, and service to others.

Outside of work, Mark enjoys competitive cycling, snowboarding, skiing, playing guitar, and attending his son's music performances with his wife.