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 strategic fiscal planning. Overseeing budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation, Balsam ensures the university's financial health and sustainability. This leadership role involves managing investments, optimizing expenditures, and securing funding to support academic initiatives and campus development. By maintaining robust financial controls, Carl Balsam directly impacts the university's ability to expand its educational offerings and infrastructure. Ultimately, Balsam drives fiscal responsibility across all departments, safeguarding the institution's long-term viability and growth.

Jacob Phelan, the Emeritus President and Dean at North Park University, provides invaluable historical perspective and strategic guidance based on extensive institutional knowledge. While no longer holding day-to-day operational responsibilities, Phelan's emeritus status signifies a continued advisory capacity, contributing to long-term institutional planning and legacy preservation. This distinguished role involves offering counsel on critical academic and administrative matters, drawing from decades of experience in university leadership. By sharing insights on past challenges and successes, Jacob Phelan aids current leadership in navigating complex decisions and upholding the university's enduring values. Phelan's enduring connection supports North Park University's commitment to its foundational principles.

Mary Surridge, the President at North Park University, provides overarching strategic direction and executive leadership for the entire institution. Overseeing all academic, administrative, and operational functions, Surridge champions the university's mission and vision, ensuring alignment with its educational and community goals. This critical role involves fostering a culture of academic excellence, driving institutional growth, and managing relationships with key stakeholders, including the board, faculty, staff, and external partners. By setting institutional priorities and guiding strategic initiatives, Mary Surridge directly impacts the university's development and its capacity to serve students effectively. Surridge's leadership ensures North Park University remains at the forefront of higher education.

Kayla Stelle, the President of the Biblical and Theological Studies Organization at North Park University, leads the strategic development and academic programming within this specialized division. Overseeing curriculum design, faculty engagement, and student support services for theological studies, Stelle ensures the organization uphms its mission of fostering deep understanding and practical application of biblical and theological principles. This leadership position involves cultivating scholarly research, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and enhancing the organization's reputation within academic and religious communities. By guiding innovative educational initiatives, Kayla Stelle directly contributes to the intellectual and spiritual growth of students pursuing theological education. Stelle's focus strengthens North Park University's commitment to comprehensive theological scholarship.

Dorothy-Ellen Gross, the President at North Park University, provides comprehensive executive leadership and strategic vision across all university operations. Overseeing academic affairs, institutional advancement, and campus development, Gross ensures the effective execution of North Park University's mission and strategic objectives. This pivotal role involves fostering an environment of academic rigor, promoting innovation in teaching and research, and cultivating strong relationships with faculty, students, alumni, and community partners. By directing key initiatives and resource allocation, Dorothy-Ellen Gross directly enhances the university's educational impact and its capacity for sustainable growth. Gross's leadership guides North Park University toward achieving its long-term institutional goals.

Peter Krause, the Director, Enterprise Applications Data Service & Deputy Chief Information Officer at North Park University, spearheads the management and strategic deployment of enterprise applications and data services. Overseeing the university's core technological infrastructure, Krause ensures the integrity, security, and accessibility of critical data systems that support academic and administrative functions. This role involves leading teams responsible for application development, data governance, and IT service delivery, directly contributing to operational efficiency and innovation. By optimizing data management strategies, Peter Krause enhances the university's capacity for informed decision-making and technological advancement. Krause's leadership ensures seamless integration of technology across all university operations, supporting North Park University's mission.

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 promotional activities, digital campaigns, and public relations efforts, Bryl drives engagement with prospective students, alumni, and the broader community. This position involves analyzing market trends, developing compelling brand narratives, and managing marketing budgets to maximize return on investment. By fostering strategic partnerships and innovative outreach programs, Skylar Bryl elevates the university's profile and strengthens its market position. Bryl's leadership ensures consistent brand messaging and impactful communication across all platforms, supporting North Park University's growth objectives.