In the midst of St. Ambrose University’s ongoing merger with Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids, the St. Ambrose Board of Trustees extended SAU President Amy Novak’s contract through June 30, 2030.
Ms. Novak was originally named to lead the Davenport-based university as its 14th president in 2021. Trustees said in a news release today this four-year extension reaffirms their “confidence in Novak’s bold leadership, deep Catholic faith, and transformative vision for the future of higher education.”
The board also lauded Ms. Novak’s pivotal role in its ongoing integration with Mount Mercy, which trustees said is “an effort that reflects a ground-breaking model for mission-centered collaboration and shared sustainability in Catholic higher education.”
The combined entity, which will be called St. Ambrose University, will be led by President Novak. It is expected to save $3 million-$5 million annually within three to five years after the merger is completed, leaders have said.
Renee Citera, co-chair of the St. Ambrose board, called Ms. Novak “a forward-thinking and faithful leader who is positioning St. Ambrose, and Mount Mercy, for long-term strength and success.”
She added in the release “She has the rare ability to honor tradition while innovating boldly toward what’s next. We are excited for her continued leadership for many years to come.”
The board’s vote ensures Ms. Novak will continue to lead the university through the next phase of a “strategic alignment with Mount Mercy that is focused on affordability, and mission integration, all while upholding the values that have defined St. Ambrose and Mount Mercy universities since their respective foundings.”
‘Entrepreneurial spirit’
Trustees said Ms. Novak has led with entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to innovation deeply rooted in Catholic values.
“President Novak understands that Catholic higher education is not just about academics, it’s about the formation of the whole person. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to faith and the common good. In a time of great challenge and change, she is building a future where the Catholic intellectual tradition doesn’t just survive but thrives,” St. Ambrose Board Co-Chair the Most Rev. Dennis G. Walsh, the bishop of the Diocese of Davenport.
Under Ms. Novak’s visionary leadership, the release said, St. Ambrose has advanced key strategic priorities to enrich the student experience and elevate academic excellence. They include:
- Expanded innovative technologies to enhance teaching and learning across disciplines.
- Reimagined lifelong learning by launching new certificate programs and fully online degree pathways.
- Pioneered a landmark partnership with the Presentation Sisters to establish the Nano Nagle Online Nursing Program.
- Strengthened philanthropic support, deepening community investment in the university’s mission and future.
- Forged robust partnerships with local and regional businesses to align academic programs with workforce needs and ensure students graduate career-ready.
Ms. Novak’s efforts also have been shaped by a clear vision: to form students who are intellectually prepared, spiritually grounded, and ready to lead lives of impact and purpose, trustees added.
“I’m deeply honored to continue serving the St. Ambrose community,” President Novak said in the release. “This is a university rooted in faith, animated by service, and full of potential. Together, we’re building something resilient and deeply needed, a Catholic university that meets today’s challenges with courage, care, and a commitment to the common good.”
About the universities
Founded in 1882 by the Diocese of Davenport, St. Ambrose’s commitment to academic excellence, the liberal arts, social justice and service is rooted in its Catholic intellectual tradition.
The private university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs. St. Ambrose remains centered on intentional, holistic and experiential learning, with a vision to be a vibrant, sustainable, and learner-focused model for Catholic higher education, preparing individuals from all walks of life to lead lives characterized by our core values of courage, wisdom, justice, and service.
Mount Mercy University was founded in 1928 by the Sisters of Mercy in Cedar Rapids. The university, which emphasizes liberal arts education and professional preparation, offers undergraduate and graduate programs, including doctoral degrees. It is also widely recognized for a commitment to service, social responsibility, and ethical leadership. Learn more here.
