North Park University Executive and Leadership Team

Carl Balsam, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at North Park University, manages the fiscal health and operational sustainability of the institution. Overseeing the university's budget, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer ensures alignment with long-term strategic goals for undergraduate and graduate programs. Carl Balsam directs financial planning, risk management, and resource allocation to support the university's mission. This leadership role involves collaborating with the Board to maintain institutional stability while funding critical infrastructure and academic initiatives. By optimizing operational efficiency, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of degree completion programs. Through rigorous financial oversight, the university sustains its commitment to high-quality education. Ultimately, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer secures the financial foundation necessary for the institution to thrive within the competitive landscape of higher education in the United States.

Mary Surridge, the President at North Park University, provides overarching strategic direction for the entire institution. Overseeing the university's academic mission, the President ensures the delivery of high-quality undergraduate and graduate programs. Mary Surridge leads the executive team in fostering a culture of excellence and service, aligning institutional goals with the needs of the student body. This leadership role involves engaging with stakeholders to advance the university's reputation and impact within the higher education sector. By championing innovation in curriculum and student support, the President drives growth and institutional development. Through collaborative governance, the university maintains its commitment to academic rigor and community values. Ultimately, the President secures the future of the institution by guiding long-term planning and ensuring the university remains a leader in providing comprehensive educational opportunities for diverse learners across the region.

Jacob Phelan, the Emeritus President and Dean at North Park University, provides historical perspective and academic guidance to the leadership team. Overseeing the preservation of institutional values, the Emeritus President and Dean supports the development of academic programs and faculty excellence. Jacob Phelan advises on long-term strategic initiatives, ensuring that the university's mission remains central to all decision-making processes. This leadership role involves mentoring academic staff and contributing to the intellectual life of the campus community. By leveraging extensive experience in higher education, the Emeritus President and Dean assists in navigating complex institutional challenges. Through these contributions, the university maintains continuity in its commitment to theological and academic inquiry. Ultimately, the Emeritus President and Dean strengthens the foundation of the institution, ensuring that the university continues to provide meaningful educational experiences for students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Kayla Stelle, the President of the Biblical and Theological Studies Organization at North Park University, directs the academic and spiritual focus of the theological seminary. Overseeing the curriculum and research initiatives, the President of the Biblical and Theological Studies Organization ensures that theological programs meet the highest standards of academic rigor. Kayla Stelle manages faculty development and student engagement within the seminary, fostering an environment of deep inquiry and faith-based learning. This leadership role involves collaborating with other university departments to integrate theological perspectives into the broader academic mission. By promoting scholarly excellence, the President of the Biblical and Theological Studies Organization enhances the university's reputation in the field of religious studies. Through these efforts, the institution prepares students for leadership and service in diverse ministry contexts. Ultimately, the President of the Biblical and Theological Studies Organization secures the theological integrity of the university's academic offerings.

Dorothy-Ellen Gross, the President at North Park University, leads the institution's operational and academic strategy. Overseeing the implementation of university-wide policies, the President ensures that all undergraduate and graduate programs align with the core mission of the institution. Dorothy-Ellen Gross manages relationships with external partners and donors to secure resources for campus development and student scholarships. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Board of Trustees to set the vision for the university's future growth. By fostering an inclusive and supportive campus environment, the President drives student success and retention. Through strategic planning, the university expands its influence and impact within the higher education landscape. Ultimately, the President secures the long-term viability of the institution, ensuring that the university continues to provide transformative educational opportunities for students seeking to advance their professional and personal goals.

Skylar Bryl, the Chief Marketing Officer, Freedom Forum at North Park University, directs all institutional branding and outreach initiatives. By aligning promotional strategies with the university's mission of providing diverse undergraduate and graduate programs, the Chief Marketing Officer, Freedom Forum expands the reach of academic offerings across North American markets. Skylar Bryl manages complex communication channels to ensure consistent messaging regarding the institution's unique value proposition. This leadership role involves coordinating with admissions departments to drive enrollment growth through targeted digital campaigns and community engagement. By analyzing market trends and student demographics, the Chief Marketing Officer, Freedom Forum optimizes resource allocation for maximum impact. Through these efforts, the university maintains a competitive edge in the higher education sector. Ultimately, the Chief Marketing Officer, Freedom Forum secures the long-term visibility and reputation of the institution within the broader academic landscape.

Peter Krause, the Director, Enterprise Applications Data Service & Deputy Chief Information Officer at North Park University, architects the digital infrastructure supporting academic and administrative functions. Overseeing enterprise data systems, the Director, Enterprise Applications Data Service & Deputy Chief Information Officer ensures seamless integration across all university departments. Peter Krause manages the technological framework that powers undergraduate and graduate programs, facilitating efficient data management and student services. This leadership role involves coordinating with IT teams to implement scalable solutions that enhance the user experience for faculty and students. By prioritizing cybersecurity and data integrity, the Director, Enterprise Applications Data Service & Deputy Chief Information Officer protects institutional assets. Through these technical advancements, the university improves operational agility and supports modern learning environments. Ultimately, the Director, Enterprise Applications Data Service & Deputy Chief Information Officer drives the digital transformation necessary for the institution to remain at the forefront of educational technology.