Amy Novak, the president and CEO of St. Ambrose University and Mount Mercy University, has been named the new chair of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities (ACCU) Board of Directors, the organization announced Thursday, Feb. 19.
Ms. Novak’s appointment comes as Catholic higher education institutions nationwide face challenges including demographic shifts, financial pressures and evolving workforce demands, all while striving to maintain their mission and identity.
As chair, she will collaborate with ACCU leadership and member presidents to foster cooperation, enhance advocacy, and promote the distinct contribution of Catholic higher education to the church and society.
“It is an honor to serve as chair of the ACCU,” Ms. Novak said. “Catholic colleges and universities play a vital role in forming students for lives of purpose, leadership, and service. At this moment in higher education, our call is to be both deeply rooted in our faith tradition and boldly responsive to the needs of today’s students and communities.”
Ms. Novak has been a national leader in mission-centered innovation and strategic partnerships within Catholic higher education. Under her leadership, St. Ambrose University has pursued initiatives focused on student success, access and long-term sustainability while honoring the Catholic intellectual tradition.
Selected as a 2025 QCBJ Woman of Influence, Ms. Novak’s efforts include launching the Nano Nagle Online Nursing Program and her work to integrate Mount Mercy under a parent-company model of St. Ambrose University. She has been recognized for its values-driven approach to preserving institutional identity while strengthening shared capacity.
