Marquette University mourns the loss of James A. Runde, trustee emeritus, who died on Saturday, July 26. He was 78.
Runde served on the Marquette Board of Trustees from 2000 to 2012, when he was elected to emeritus status. During his time on the Board, Jim served on and eventually chaired the Advancement Committee and was instrumental in guiding Marquette’s fundraising success.
Runde graduated from Marquette’s College of Engineering in 1969. During his time at Marquette, he was a member of the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps. He later served as an officer in the U.S. Navy, and used the GI BIll to earn his master’s degree in business at George Washington University.
He went on to be one of the longest-serving investment bankers in American history, rising to vice chairman of Morgan Stanley. He was a trusted advisor to many of the world’s leading companies.
A strong believer in civic engagement, Runde brought three distinguished speakers to campus, enriching Marquette students’ educational experience:
- Adm. Michael Mullen, who was serving as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
- Hon. Andrew Natsios, who was serving as administrator of the United States Agency for International Development
- Hon. Newt Gingrich, former speaker of the House of Representatives, who spoke about and screened his documentary about the role that Pope John Paul II played in the downfall of communism in Eastern Europe
Runde also spoke to Marquette students about his leadership lessons and his book, “Unequaled: Tips for Building a Successful Career Through Emotional Intelligence.”
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Paralyzed Veterans of America.
A full obituary is available online.
Please remember James, his family and friends in your prayers.
