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James Lyons

Vice President for University Relations
Santa Clara University


Since 2013, James Lyons leads the departments of Development, Corporate and Foundation Relations; Alumni Relations, and Event Planning as Vice President for University Relations. Lyons brings 37 years of experience in higher education and is a member of the president’s cabinet.

Under his direction, Santa Clara University achieved a monumental milestone, raising over $1 billion in its comprehensive fundraising campaign, “Innovating with a Mission,” in January 2024.

Additionally, he holds leadership positions in several professional organizations, including chair of the Jesuit Advancement Administrators (JAA), board member of the Bay Area Council (BAC) and Global ADE, and is a member of the Rotary Club of San Jose.

Lyons received a bachelor’s degree in political science and public administration and a master’s degree in public administration from Seattle University. He attended the Harvard Institutes for Higher Education.