Coleen Burrus is a member of Princeton University’s Office of the Dean for Research leadership team. Burrus is committed to creating a culture of innovation, bold initiative, and open communication on her team.

As the executive director of corporate engagement and foundation relations, Burrus advances the mission of the University by leading efforts to develop strategic and innovative research collaborations with external partners. Her team creates opportunities to expand and deepen industry engagement; and cultivates relationships and the exchange of ideas with foundations dedicated to research. During her time at Princeton, Burrus has been successful in broadening discussion and creating dynamic new models for interaction by convening non-traditional research partners.

Prior to Princeton, Burrus had leadership roles in both government and higher education, including at Northwestern University, University of Chicago, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and St. Louis County government.

Burrus has an unwavering, lifelong dedication to public service, which was reinforced when she was elected to two terms as the City of Evanston, Illinois’ 9th Ward Alderman. She was appointed to and led several of the city’s committees including planning, economic development, and administration and public works; and has volunteered on numerous political campaigns. Burrus has served as a board member on community-focused organizations in Missouri, Illinois and New Jersey.