Advisory Councils at the University of Dallas
A Legacy of Leadership and Engagement in the Pursuit of Wisdom, Truth and Virtue
The University of Dallas is dedicated to the pursuit of wisdom, truth and virtue as the fundamental and highest purposes of education. The university seeks to educate its students so they may develop the intellectual and moral virtues, prepare themselves for life and work in a problematic and changing world, and become leaders able to act responsibly for their own good and for the good of their family, community, country and church.
To further this vision, we established Advisory Councils: dedicated groups of volunteer
leaders who serve as champions, ambassadors and philanthropic leaders across our academic
colleges and divisions. Council members invest in the University of Dallas in a meaningful
way, most notably through generous financial support, and are invited into this deeper
relationship as a reflection of their commitment. These councils offer an intimate
forum for conversation with university leadership in which members help shape strategic
priorities and amplify the impact of the university’s mission.
Rooted in the University of Dallas’ Strategic Plan, our Advisory Councils bring the university’s values to life, supporting academic excellence, character formation, service to church and country, and greater reputation and recognition. Members play a vital role in strengthening the Catholic liberal arts tradition and ensuring its place in society today.
How Council Members Lead and Serve
Council members contribute their expertise, time and resources in the following ways:
- Philanthropic Investment
Provide financial leadership to support high-impact initiatives that directly benefit students and faculty, such as endowed scholarships, capital projects, endowed faculty positions, student research opportunities, and special academic or mission-driven projects. - Strategic Leadership
Offer advice and insight to university leadership on key institutional priorities and initiatives, helping shape the direction and long-term success of the university. - Mission Representation
Promote and represent the University of Dallas within your personal and professional spheres of influence, serving as a visible and trusted champion of its Catholic liberal arts mission. - Student Engagement (Optional)
Support students by serving as mentors and professional connectors — helping them explore potential career paths, secure internships and build meaningful networks that prepare them for life beyond UDallas.
While each council is tailored to address the priorities of its area, all share one goal: to help the University of Dallas flourish as the premier Catholic liberal arts university in the country.
Becoming a Council Member
Advisory Councils are composed of people who demonstrate a deep commitment to the
mission of the University of Dallas. Individuals who are nominated by others, or who
express interest through self-nomination, may be invited to enter a consideration
process led by university leadership and the Office of Development.
Council members serve three-year terms and may serve up to three consecutive terms. After completing their third term, members must rotate off the Council for a minimum of one year before being eligible for re-nomination. Following the one-year break, former Council members can be nominated for a new three-year term, with the option to serve three consecutive terms again.
Councils are supported by the Office of Development, in close partnership and collaboration with the colleges and with university leadership.
Council members are expected to:
- Provide annual financial support to advance high-impact initiatives such as capital projects, endowed scholarships, faculty positions, and other strategic priorities
- Attend and actively participate in bi-annual council meetings held on campus
- Share insights and guidance informed by their personal expertise and professional experience
- Serve as visible champions for UDallas within their professional and social communities
The Rewards of Council Service
Advisory Council members enjoy:
- Recognition across university publications, events and special communications.
- Invitations to exclusive events such as private reception, lectures, campus celebrations and milestone ceremonies.
- Early insight into strategic initiatives and future plans, offering opportunities for members’ voices to help shape key decisions.
- Personal engagement with university leadership, faculty and students, creating a closer connection to the university’s vibrant community.
- Opportunities to expand and deepen their professional and personal networks with like-minded leaders, innovators and advocates who share their passion for education and excellence.
- The deep satisfaction of making a meaningful and lasting impact on forming students and advancing the university’s mission for generations to come.
Make a Lasting Impact
Service on a University of Dallas Advisory Council is a powerful way to shape the
future of Catholic higher education. Council members have a tangible impact on the
lives of students — helping the University of Dallas deliver an education that forms
the next generation of leaders, thinkers and faithful servants.
Join us in shaping the future of Catholic higher education.
Interested in Joining the Council or Learning More?
Contact Koji de Ramos, Assistant Director of Development
dderamos@udallas.edu