Sue S. Stewart has been named senior vice president and general counsel for the University of Rochester. Her appointment became effective this month.
Stewart, who was previously vice president and general counsel for the University, is a well-known specialist in legal affairs for educational institutions and other nonprofit organizations. She retired from Nixon Peabody in March 2001 after a 33-year stint with the firm, the last three as managing partner of the Rochester office. Her practice concentrated on legal issues relating to educational institutions, including medical schools and their related hospitals, museums, and other non-profit institutions.
"Sue Stewart is an exceptional general counsel, which means that she is both a close advisor to me and to the Board and that she is also an extraordinarily thoughtful attorney," said President Joel Seligman. "Her distinguished career has earned her broad respect in Greater Rochester and beyond."
Stewart was for many years the primary outside counsel for the University as well as several other educational institutions. Her areas of focus included issues relating to corporate structure and governance, tax-exempt status, fundraising, student affairs, academic affairs, employee relations, risk management, intellectual property, finance, and medical-school affairs.
A graduate of Wellesley College and Georgetown Law School, Stewart received many awards including, the 1999 Athena Award from the Greater Rochester Metro Chamber of Commerce and the 2001 Distinguished Volunteer Service Award from the United Neighborhood Centers of Greater Rochester. She has served on a number of community organization boards, including the United Way of Greater Rochester, International Museum of Photography at George Eastman House, Center for Governmental Research, and Genesee Country Village & Museum.