TACOMA, WASH., (April 3, 2019) Pacific Lutheran University’s Board of Regents has appointed Allan Belton as PLU’s 14th President. Mr. Belton has served in the role as acting president for the past two years while the board conducted an international presidential search.
“Our board carried out an extensive recruitment process for PLU’s next president. In the end, we feel strongly that the best person for the job was already sitting in the chair,” said Ed Grogan, Chair, Board of Regents. “We have watched Allan in action for several years. His accomplishments and selfless leadership in this period speak volumes to his character and readiness for this appointment.”
President Belton first came to Pacific Lutheran University four years ago as the senior vice president and chief administrative officer.
“I am deeply honored and humbled by the faith the Board of Regents has placed in me to lead PLU for this next chapter.” said Allan Belton, President, Pacific Lutheran University (PLU). “We have taken some important strides forward these past two years and I am inspired by the passion and pride I see on this campus and within the PLU family.”
Belton identified several top priorities in the coming year:
“We will continue our focus on the success of our students by providing them with the academic programs and support services they need to pursue their education and meet the needs of a dynamic world. In the near term, this includes investment in state-of-the-art facilities for our School of Nursing as well as improvements to our athletic and wellness facilities,” said Belton. “We are close to finalizing our new five-year strategic plan which calls upon our uniqueness as a university guided by the values of Lutheran education and invests in the programmatic and financial sustainability of our school. We have the talent at PLU to transform this campus into a model for other universities, rooted in our calling and highly-engaged in our communities.”
Prior to joining PLU, Allan enjoyed a 25-year career with Bank of America Merrill Lynch, where he served most recently as Managing Director in global treasury management for higher education, government and non-profit organizations. He holds a B.A. in Business Administration and an M.B.A. from Washington State University.
Allan is married to Melinda Krotz Belton, PLU Class of 1991; they live in Gig Harbor with their three children.
About PLU
Pacific Lutheran University purposefully integrates the liberal arts, professional studies and civic engagement. With distinctive international programs and close student-faculty research opportunities, PLU helps its 3,100 students from all faiths and backgrounds discern their vocations in life. Founded in 1890 by Norwegian immigrants, PLU continues the distinctive tradition of Lutheran higher education through its commitment to the advancement of knowledge, thoughtful inquiry and questioning, the preparation of citizens in service to the world.
MEDIA CONTACT: Lace M. Smith, 253-535-7001, smithla@plu.edu