GREENVILLE, Pa.—Thiel College, a leading independent college in western Pennsylvania, announces that Paul Runge ’70 has returned to its Board of Trustees.
Runge’s second tenure on the board began with the Board of Trustees’ meeting in early November. He previously served on the College’s Board from 2015-2020.
“We welcome Paul back to the board, and we look forward to his contributions,” Thiel College President Susan Traverso, Ph.D. said. “His extensive experience in finance and investments, coupled with his deep connection to Thiel as an alumnus, will be instrumental in guiding the College as we navigate a dynamic higher education landscape. Paul’s expertise and dedication will help us seize new opportunities to strengthen and grow our institution.”
Runge retired following an accomplished career in International Finance and Investment Management having worked with such global firms as GE Asset Management, Mercer Investment Consulting, and Banque Paribas.
Runge earned an MBA in finance and economics from the University of Maine and a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Thiel College. He also completed the AIMSE/Wharton Business School Asset Management Program. Runge was active in the Thiel Choir and several campus organizations revolving around the arts and is a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. As a Thiel Trustee, he serves on the Investment Sub-Committee of the Finance and Investment Committee and the Academic Affairs Committee.
He has served on several advisory boards around the U.S. and abroad and maintains his particular interest in supporting the conversation around preserving sound retirement benefits for public employees and teachers throughout the U.S. He has also been an advisory board member of St. Mary’s College Master of Science in finance program.
Runge and his wife, Maryellen, have been married for 45 years and live near San Francisco.
Runge is one of four professionals recently elected to Thiel’s board. Joining Runge are Joseph Scarpitti ’80, John Barr ’70 and Joel Yuhas. The Board of Trustees comprises 33 men and women who bring diverse life, higher education and professional experience to their roles. The Trustees are responsible for the oversight of Thiel College. The Board adopts rules, regulations and policies governing Thiel College and has authority over curricular development, use of property, development of facilities and fiscal and human resources management. The Board of Trustees meets formally three times a year on campus.
About Thiel College
Thiel College is an independent college founded in the Lutheran tradition. Located in Greenville, Pa., the College offers 60 majors and minors, 24 varsity sports, and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. The College is also home to a new Master of Science in speech-language pathology and 2Master of Business Administration. Both master’s degree programs offer innovative and accelerated five-year paths which allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The speech-language pathology program also has an accelerated 15-month graduate-level program. The M.B.A. program also has a 12-month post-graduate program.A dedicated faculty paired with dynamic research and internship opportunities produce numerous graduate school and job placements. Coeducational from its beginnings, the College remains committed to combining tradition with innovation as it celebrates 150 years.