Meet Kathy Lustyk
SPU’s Vice President for Academic Affairs / Chief Academic Officer Kathy Lustyk has demonstrated a lifelong dedication to empowering students through her years as an educator and leader.
For more than 20 years, she was part of the Seattle Pacific University community as a professor and department chair in SPU’s School of Psychology, Family, and Community before moving in 2017 to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Prescott, Ariz. As the vice chancellor and associate chief academic officer at ERAU, she provided strategic leadership and intentional supervision to academic colleges, student-support services, and academic-enrichment services. She previously served as the dean for the ERAU College of Arts and Science.
In 2024, she returned to Seattle Pacific University when she was named vice president for academic affairs / chief academic officer, where her dedication to academic excellence and mission alignment positions her to support SPU’s faculty and advance the University’s vision. Her ability to guide institutions through times of change while maintaining focus on long-term goals will make a lasting impact at Seattle Pacific.
Known for navigating complex challenges, Dr. Lustyk is recognized for her thoughtful, data-driven decision-making and ability to align her work with a broader academic vision. Her student-centered approach and mentoring skills have earned her a reputation as a respected leader with a collaborative spirit and positive leadership style.
Dr. Lustyk holds a bachelor of science in psychology and a doctorate in physiological psychology from the University of Washington.