06/04/2025

The Saint Louis University Board of Trustees has named President Fred P. Pestello, Ph.D., president emeritus, effective July 1, in recognition of his transformational 11-year tenure as SLU’s first lay president.

Emeritus status for a college president is a prestigious — and typically lifelong — designation that honors an outgoing leader’s legacy, service and contributions to a university community and beyond. 

In its resolution conferring the emeritus title, SLU’s Board highlighted Pestello’s values-based leadership and the many ways he helped transform the University, from record-setting enrollment and fundraising efforts to major construction projects, an expanded research enterprise, and community partnerships that have reimagined Midtown St. Louis.

Also in May, SLU’s Student Government Association established a new undergraduate scholarship to honor the leadership of Dr. Pestello and his spouse, Fran. The Drs. Fred and Fran Pestello Legacy of Leadership Award will recognize one outstanding undergraduate student each year who:

• Upholds SLU’s Catholic, Jesuit mission through education, ethics, and service
• Maintains academic excellence
• Actively engages in community service in St. Louis

“The creation of this award is a tribute to the years Drs. Pestello have given to students and their dedication to shared governance,” said outgoing SGA president, Reueline Arulanandam, (PH ’25). “It is intentionally designed to remember their incredible legacy and honor students who are making their own. With this award, we honor them and hope to encourage many students to come to take after their example of leadership.”

To contribute to the Fred and Fran Pestello Legacy of Leadership Award fund, visit the Giving to SLU website.