Francis Flannery served the University with distinction for 46 years as vice president and treasurer before his retirement. He joined the University administration in 1964 as assistant treasurer before being named treasurer six years later. In 1972, Flannery was appointed vice president. On two occasions he served as acting University president. His able leadership in matters of finance made possible the expansion of academic programs and the addition of academic buildings and residence halls. He was honored with a Suffolk University Centennial Heritage Medallion in 2006. Flannery earned an MBA from Suffolk University in 1964, and his many contributions to the University were recognized with an honorary Doctor of Commercial Science degree in 1991.