Scott McClellan — Staff - Leadership ; Vice President for University Affairs ; Office of the President .

As Vice President for University Affairs at Seattle University, Scott McClellan leads public affairs across government relations, public policy, strategic partnerships and integrated communications in support of the university’s strategic priorities. Previously, he served as White House Press Secretary (2003-2006) and held senior roles in government and politics. A graduate of the University of Texas and author of a No. 1 New York Times bestseller, he brings deep experience in leadership, public affairs, and communications to strengthen connections between higher education and the broader community.

In his current role, Scott oversees marketing, communications and external affairs and provides strategic counsel to the university’s president and other university leaders. Prior to joining the university, he advised a variety of clients on public affairs and communications strategy.

Scott’s 2008 memoir, What Happened: Inside the Bush White House and Washington’s Culture of Deception, was a #1 New York Times bestseller. The Associated Press called it a “sophisticated assessment” that “makes an important commentary on Washington’s poisonous political climate.”

Before being named press secretary, Scott served as the principal deputy White House press secretary from 2001 to 2003. Previously, he was the traveling press secretary for the Bush-Cheney 2000 presidential campaign.

Earlier in his career, Scott spent several years working in Texas politics as a senior aide to then-Governor Bush, chief of staff to a state senator and campaign manager for three successful statewide campaigns.

A native of Austin, Scott is a graduate of the University of Texas. In 2005, he received the Outstanding Young Texas Ex Award, which recognizes graduates under 40 who have made significant achievements in their careers and in service to the University.

Scott and his wife Jill are the proud parents of three young sons.