APPLETON, Wis., Dec. 13, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Princeton University executive vice president and Cedar Grove native Mark Burstein has been named Lawrence University's 16th president.  

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20121213/DC29494)

Burstein succeeds Jill Beck, who is retiring June 30 after nine years as president. 

"I was drawn to Lawrence's rigorous academic environment, its commitment to providing an individualized learning experience to all students and its unique combination of a strong liberal arts education with a nationally-recognized conservatory of music," said Burstein, a 1979 Memorial High School graduate.

"Through the dedication of its faculty, Lawrence provides an educational experience that literally changes lives, setting its graduates on a trajectory of success and continued exploration. I'm looking forward to working with colleagues to ensure Lawrence's tradition of excellence."

Terry Franke, chair of Lawrence's Board of Trustees, cited Burstein's breadth of leadership and deep higher education experience among the reasons he stood out from more than 100 candidates.

"Mark brings with him a unique set of experiences in public service, finance, consulting as well as leadership with two of the country's most prestigious educational institutions," said Franke. "This background positions him to be a great leader and president.

Burstein, 51, was named executive vice president at Princeton in 2004. He led efforts to enhance campus life and modernize the university's operations and infrastructure. He oversaw a $200 million budget and a staff of 1,800 in the areas of student life, public safety, university audit and compliance, human resources and facilities.

"It is a great pleasure to welcome my colleague Mark Burstein into the ranks of university and college presidents and to congratulate Lawrence University on a wonderful choice," said Princeton President Shirley Tilghman. "Mark has been a stellar leader at Princeton. There is no aspect of university life that has not benefited from his stewardship."  

Burstein previously spent 10 years as a vice president at Columbia University.

He earned a bachelor's degree in history and independent studies at Vassar College and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

Additional information:
http://www.lawrence.edu/the16thpresident/
http://www.lawrence.edu/dept/communications/images/Mark-Burstein.jpg

Founded in 1847, Lawrence University uniquely integrates a college of liberal arts and sciences with a nationally recognized conservatory of music, both devoted exclusively to undergraduate education. Individualized learning, the development of multiple interests and community engagement are central to the Lawrence experience. Lawrence draws its 1,500 students from nearly every state and more than 50 countries.

SOURCE Lawrence University