Idaho State University President Kevin Satterlee Announces Retirement

In a video Monday afternoon, Satterlee thanked the Bengal community for their dedication to helping students reach their goals and change their lives. As a first-generation college student, Satterlee said, the mission of the University - to change lives for the better - is a personal one. 

“As I reflect on my over 25 years in higher education, I am humbled by how much this work has meant to me personally,” he said. “I have had the tremendous opportunity to follow my professional passions and help countless students realize their full potential. It has been a privilege and an honor to serve this State and to serve our students. And I am beyond grateful to have been able to serve Idaho State University with our mission, a mission that resonates so deeply with me, and with a team that shows more dedication and grit than I could have ever imagined.” 

Satterlee, a native Idahoan from Priest River, became Idaho State’s 13th president in 2018. Prior to his arrival, Satterlee served 17 years at Boise State University in a variety of leadership positions, most recently Chief Operating Officer, Vice President and Special Counsel to the President. Before that, Satterlee was a Deputy Attorney General in the Idaho Attorney General’s Office for six years, serving as Chief Legal Officer for the State Board of Education during much of that time. 

During his time leading Idaho State University, Satterlee oversaw the reinstallation of the Red Hill “I”, improvements to Davis Field, Holt Arena, and student housing facilities, as well as the completion of the Idaho Central Credit Union Bengal Alumni Center. Enrollment has increased during his leadership, reversing a decade of declines, and retention rates have improved dramatically. 

“It has been my goal to serve our Bengal community and support our team to truly move us forward to be the best version of ourselves,” Satterlee told employees Monday. “I am excited about ISU and the direction in which we are moving. The growth that we have all made since my arrival is immeasurable. And it is not because of me. It is never one person. We did this. Together, we have accomplished so much.” 

After retirement, Satterlee plans to travel and spend time with family and friends. The Idaho State Board of Education will launch a national search for the next Idaho State University President.