University of Washington President Robert J. Jones on Wednesday announced that David Lance has been appointed chief of staff to the president, effective May 11. The chief of staff serves as a senior advisor to the president and plays a critical role in advancing the University’s strategic priorities and institutional goals.
Lance brings more than 18 years of university leadership and legal experience to the role, serving for the past five years as chief of staff to the provost at Seattle University. Prior to that role, Lance served as SU’s associate university counsel from 2017 to 2021 and assistant to the executive vice president and assistant university counsel from 2010 to 2017.
“David stood out not only for the depth and breadth of his experience as a university chief of staff, but for the incredible esteem in which he is held by all who have worked with him. In addition, his deep knowledge and understanding of the local higher education landscape makes him the ideal person to fill this important role,” said President Jones.
Before joining Seattle University, Lance was an associate attorney for Miller Nash, LLP where his practice focused on higher education. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Marquette University, a juris doctorate from Seattle University School of Law and was an adjunct law professor from 2012 to 2016.
“Having been born and raised in Washington, I am honored to join the Husky family,” Lance said. “The UW stands as a leading public research university and prominent member of the AAU and Big Ten Conference. I look forward to serving alongside President Jones, Provost Serio and the UW community as we navigate the headwinds facing higher education, lead in this moment of change, and continue our work to educate students, care for patients, innovate and produce knowledge, and serve our communities, all for the common good.”
As chief of staff, Lance will serve as a senior advisor to the president, helping to drive strategic priorities and oversee the operations of the Executive Office of the President and Provost. He will work closely with campus and external partners to ensure alignment across the University, advance the institution’s strategic plan and strengthen collaboration among divisions. Lance will also support the administration’s engagement with the UW Board of Regents and help ensure the University’s mission and values are reflected in its leadership and decision making.
Lance is the youngest son of two Huskies — Stan Lance, who graduated with a master’s degree in 1972 and an MBA in 1975, and Nora Lance, who earned a bachelor’s degree in 1973.
Outside of work, Lance enjoys running and longs for more October baseball in Seattle. He also explores the Pacific Northwest’s trails, beaches and mountains with his wife, Christi, and three young kids.
Lance succeeds Hasoni Pratts, who served as chief of staff following the departure of Margaret Shepherd, who left the UW in September after serving at the University for 16 years.