St Ambrose University Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

St Ambrose University has 8 executives leading key functions including financial management, academic strategy, institutional governance, and administrative oversight.

Committed to academic excellence and social justice, St Ambrose University fosters a transformative educational environment that prepares students for meaningful careers and lifelong service within the liberal arts tradition.

Leadership Roles at St Ambrose University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Courtney Berg
  • President - John Darmody
  • President - Thomas Prior
  • President - Kevin Randle
  • President - Carla Stevens
  • President - Joan Lescinski
  • President - Ireland Stewart
  • St. Ambrose University - Heppy Jacobs
  • Courtney Berg - Chief Financial Officer

    Courtney Berg, the Chief Financial Officer at St Ambrose University, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic sustainability of the institution. Overseeing budget allocation, endowment growth, and capital investment strategies, the Chief Financial Officer ensures alignment between financial resources and the core mission of providing high-quality liberal arts education. Courtney Berg directs complex financial reporting processes while collaborating with the Board to maintain institutional stability. By optimizing operational expenditures and securing funding for campus infrastructure, the Chief Financial Officer supports the broader academic goals of the university. This leadership role involves rigorous oversight of financial compliance and risk management protocols. Through prudent fiscal planning, Berg strengthens the university's ability to invest in student success and faculty development. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer maintains the financial integrity required to sustain the educational impact of the institution across the Midwest region.
    Courtney Berg

    John Darmody - President

    John Darmody, the President at St Ambrose University, directs the overarching academic vision and strategic growth of the institution. Focusing on the expansion of liberal arts programs and the integration of social justice initiatives, the President guides the university toward increased regional prominence. John Darmody coordinates with faculty leadership and administrative departments to enhance student outcomes and campus culture. This role involves representing the university to external stakeholders and donors to secure necessary support for academic innovation. By prioritizing the development of inclusive educational pathways, the President ensures the institution remains competitive within the higher education landscape. Darmody oversees the implementation of long-term strategic plans that align with the Catholic identity of the university. Through consistent engagement with the academic community, the President drives initiatives that improve retention and graduation rates, ultimately securing the future of the institution as a premier center for learning.

    Thomas Prior - President

    Thomas Prior, the President at St Ambrose University, manages the operational efficiency and administrative infrastructure of the campus. Concentrating on the modernization of facilities and the optimization of student services, the President ensures that the physical and digital environments support contemporary learning needs. Thomas Prior collaborates with department heads to streamline internal processes and improve service delivery across the university. This leadership position involves overseeing campus safety, facility maintenance, and logistical operations to provide a seamless experience for the student body. By aligning administrative functions with the educational mission, the President fosters an environment conducive to academic achievement. Prior directs the execution of campus-wide projects that enhance the overall quality of life for students and staff. Through effective management of institutional resources, the President maintains the operational readiness required to support the diverse academic programs offered by the university.

    Kevin Randle - President

    Kevin Randle, the President at St Ambrose University, leads the development of external partnerships and community engagement strategies. Focusing on building relationships with regional employers and civic organizations, the President creates opportunities for student internships and career placement. Kevin Randle coordinates with the career services department to align academic curricula with the evolving demands of the workforce. This role involves promoting the university's value proposition to prospective students and community members to drive enrollment growth. By fostering strong ties with the local business community, the President enhances the reputation of the institution as a vital contributor to regional economic development. Randle oversees outreach programs that emphasize the university's commitment to social justice and community service. Through strategic networking and public advocacy, the President secures the necessary support to expand the reach and influence of the university across the state.

    Carla Stevens - President

    Carla Stevens, the President at St Ambrose University, oversees the advancement of faculty research and academic scholarship. Focusing on the promotion of intellectual inquiry and the support of faculty-led projects, the President fosters a culture of academic excellence. Carla Stevens coordinates with the provost and department chairs to allocate research grants and provide resources for scholarly publication. This role involves encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration to address complex social issues through the lens of the liberal arts. By prioritizing the professional development of the teaching staff, the President ensures that students receive instruction from experts engaged in current research. Stevens directs the implementation of academic policies that uphold the rigorous standards of the university. Through the cultivation of a vibrant intellectual community, the President strengthens the academic reputation of the institution and attracts high-caliber faculty and students to the campus.

    Joan Lescinski - President

    Joan Lescinski, the President at St Ambrose University, manages the institutional advancement and fundraising efforts to support long-term growth. Focusing on the cultivation of donor relationships and the management of capital campaigns, the President secures the financial resources necessary for campus expansion and scholarship programs. Joan Lescinski collaborates with the development office to communicate the impact of the university's mission to alumni and philanthropic partners. This leadership position involves overseeing the stewardship of endowment funds and ensuring that charitable contributions are directed toward high-priority initiatives. By building a robust network of supporters, the President ensures the financial sustainability of the university for future generations. Lescinski directs the strategic planning of fundraising events and outreach campaigns that highlight the achievements of the institution. Through effective donor engagement, the President provides the essential funding required to maintain the high standards of the university.

    Ireland Stewart - President

    Ireland Stewart, the President at St Ambrose University, directs the student life and campus wellness initiatives. Focusing on the holistic development of the student body, the President oversees programs related to mental health, residential life, and extracurricular activities. Ireland Stewart coordinates with the student affairs team to create a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes personal growth and community building. This role involves addressing the diverse needs of the student population and ensuring that campus services contribute to overall well-being. By prioritizing student engagement and leadership development, the President fosters a vibrant campus culture that aligns with the values of the university. Stewart oversees the implementation of policies that enhance the student experience and promote a sense of belonging. Through the continuous improvement of student support services, the President ensures that the university provides a nurturing environment for all students.

    Heppy Jacobs - St. Ambrose University

    Heppy Jacobs, the St. Ambrose University at St Ambrose University, directs the integration of technology and digital learning resources across all academic departments. Focusing on the implementation of advanced educational tools, the St. Ambrose University ensures that faculty and students have access to modern platforms that facilitate effective instruction. Heppy Jacobs collaborates with the IT department to upgrade campus infrastructure and support the transition toward hybrid learning models. This leadership role involves evaluating new software solutions and hardware requirements to maintain a competitive edge in the digital education space. By optimizing the use of data analytics, the St. Ambrose University supports evidence-based decision-making regarding curriculum design and student support services. Through the continuous improvement of digital capabilities, Jacobs enhances the accessibility and quality of the educational experience, ensuring that the university remains at the forefront of technological innovation in higher education.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding St Ambrose University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads St Ambrose University?
    St Ambrose University is led by Courtney Berg (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as John Darmody (President) and Thomas Prior (President).
    Who is part of St Ambrose University’s executive team?
    The executive team of St Ambrose University includes leaders such as Courtney Berg (Chief Financial Officer), John Darmody (President), Thomas Prior (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does St Ambrose University have?
    St Ambrose University has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in St Ambrose University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of St Ambrose University includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, President, President, President, President.