North Park University Executive and Leadership Team

Carl Balsam, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at North Park University, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, Balsam ensures the university's long-term financial health and sustainability. This leadership role involves managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining compliance with all financial regulations. By implementing robust financial controls, Carl Balsam drives operational efficiency across all departments. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer also collaborates with other senior leaders to align financial objectives with the university's strategic goals, securing resources for academic programs and campus development. Balsam's oversight extends to managing institutional risk and exploring new funding opportunities to support North Park University's mission.

Dorothy-Ellen Gross, the President at North Park University, provides overarching leadership and strategic vision for the institution. Directing all university operations, Gross champions academic excellence, institutional growth, and community engagement. This pivotal role involves fostering a culture of innovation, ensuring financial stability, and advancing the university's mission. By collaborating with the Board of Trustees and senior leadership, Dorothy-Ellen Gross guides strategic planning and resource development. The President oversees all academic and administrative functions, ensuring alignment with the university's core values and educational objectives. Gross's leadership focuses on enhancing the student experience, supporting faculty research, and strengthening North Park University's position within the higher education landscape.

Jacob Phelan, the Emeritus President and Dean at North Park University, provides ongoing counsel and strategic guidance based on extensive institutional knowledge. While no longer holding direct operational responsibilities, Phelan contributes valuable historical perspective and leadership insights to current university initiatives. This advisory role involves supporting senior leadership in navigating complex challenges and identifying opportunities for advancement. By leveraging decades of experience, Jacob Phelan assists in maintaining the continuity of the university's mission and values. The Emeritus President and Dean offers mentorship and contributes to special projects, ensuring the enduring strength of North Park University's academic programs and community.

Mary Surridge, the President at North Park University, drives the strategic direction and operational effectiveness of the institution. Overseeing all facets of university management, Surridge champions academic innovation, student success, and community impact. This executive position involves fostering a collaborative environment, securing resources, and advancing the university's mission. By engaging with stakeholders across Chicago and beyond, Mary Surridge strengthens external partnerships and enhances the university's public profile. The President directs academic planning, financial oversight, and campus development, ensuring North Park University remains a leader in higher education. Surridge's leadership focuses on cultivating a dynamic learning environment and preparing students for meaningful contributions.

Kayla Stelle, the President of the Biblical and Theological Studies Organization at North Park University, leads the strategic development and academic programming for theological education. Overseeing curriculum design, faculty recruitment, and student engagement within the organization, Stelle ensures the delivery of high-quality theological studies. This leadership role involves fostering scholarly inquiry, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and advancing the organization's mission. By cultivating relationships with religious communities and academic partners, Kayla Stelle enhances the reach and impact of North Park University's theological programs. The President of the Biblical and Theological Studies Organization directs initiatives that prepare students for leadership and service in diverse ministry contexts, upholding academic rigor and spiritual formation.

Peter Krause, the Director, Enterprise Applications Data Service & Deputy Chief Information Officer at North Park University, spearheads the strategic direction and operational execution of the university's enterprise applications and data services. Overseeing the development, implementation, and maintenance of critical IT systems, Krause ensures seamless data flow and application functionality supporting academic and administrative functions. This role involves managing a team of IT professionals, driving innovation in data management, and enhancing the user experience for students, faculty, and staff. By optimizing data governance and application architecture, Peter Krause supports the university's digital transformation initiatives. The Director, Enterprise Applications Data Service & Deputy Chief Information Officer collaborates closely with university leadership to align technology roadmaps with institutional priorities, ensuring robust and secure IT infrastructure.

Skylar Bryl, the Chief Marketing Officer, Freedom Forum at North Park University, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and student recruitment. Overseeing all marketing, communications, and public relations efforts, Bryl drives initiatives that articulate the university's value proposition and academic strengths. This leadership position involves managing digital marketing campaigns, content creation, and brand messaging across various platforms. By analyzing market trends and audience engagement, Skylar Bryl ensures marketing efforts resonate with prospective students and stakeholders. The Chief Marketing Officer, Freedom Forum collaborates with academic departments and administrative offices to develop targeted outreach programs, fostering strong community relationships and amplifying the university's impact. Bryl's strategic vision guides the university's external communications, solidifying its reputation.