Shelby Leadership

Finis E. St. John, IV

Executive Director

A long-time leader of the University of Alabama System, Fess St. John has a deep understanding of the essential value of rigorous educational programs that prepare students for success in life. As chancellor of the UA System from 2018–2024, St. John served as chief executive officer of the state’s largest higher education enterprise and gained national recognition for his leadership in higher education.

The UA System experienced record-breaking growth under St. John’s leadership in areas ranging from research and development to annual economic impact. Despite national trends, enrollment across the UA System remained steady under St. John’s leadership, and there was only one marginal increase in tuition for Alabama residents during his six-year tenure as chancellor. These initiatives contributed to the UA System’s ability to provide accessible and quality education to nearly 70,000 students.

Prior to becoming chancellor, St. John served on the UA System Board of Trustees for 17 years, including three consecutive terms as president pro tempore. During that time, he also practiced law at one of Alabama’s oldest law firms, St. John & St. John LLC, in his hometown of Cullman. He comes from a family with a long and distinguished history of public service.

St. John is a cum laude graduate of UA, where he was a member of Phi Beta Kappa. He is also a graduate of the University of Virginia School of Law and a member of the distinguished American College of Trial Lawyers.