St Ambrose University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

St Ambrose University has 10 executives leading key functions including information technology, finance, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to liberal arts and social justice, St Ambrose University provides a comprehensive educational experience rooted in Catholic values, fostering intellectual curiosity and community engagement across its Iowa campus.

Leadership Roles at St Ambrose University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Edward Henkhaus
  • President - Thomas Prior
  • President - Ireland Stewart
  • President - John Darmody
  • President - Joan Lescinski
  • President - Kevin Randle
  • President - Carla Stevens
  • Chief Information Officer - Adam Kurth
  • St. Ambrose University - Heppy Jacobs
  • St. Ambrose University - Abigail Carpenter
  • Edward Henkhaus - Chief Financial Officer

    Edward Henkhaus, the Chief Financial Officer at St Ambrose University, manages all financial planning, budgeting, and fiscal operations. Overseeing the university's economic health, Edward Henkhaus ensures responsible allocation of resources and financial sustainability. This critical role involves developing long-term financial strategies, managing investments, and maintaining compliance with all relevant financial regulations. By analyzing financial performance and identifying opportunities for revenue enhancement, Edward Henkhaus directly supports the institution's growth and operational stability. Ultimately, Henkhaus safeguards the financial integrity of St Ambrose University, enabling continued investment in its educational programs and campus infrastructure across the United States.

    Thomas Prior - President

    Thomas Prior, the President at St Ambrose University, provides overarching strategic direction and leadership for the entire institution. Overseeing all academic and administrative functions, Thomas Prior champions the university's mission and values, fostering a culture of excellence and inclusivity. This executive position involves engaging with the Board of Trustees, external stakeholders, and the wider community to advance the university's goals. By setting institutional priorities and guiding major initiatives, Thomas Prior directly impacts the academic quality and market position of St Ambrose University. Ultimately, Prior ensures the continued success and development of the university's educational offerings and its presence in Davenport, Iowa.

    Ireland Stewart - President

    Ireland Stewart, the President at St Ambrose University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution across all university departments. Overseeing key initiatives, Ireland Stewart ensures alignment with the institution's core values and academic mission. This leadership role involves fostering strong relationships with faculty, staff, and students, while also engaging with external partners to enhance the university's reach and impact. By driving forward critical projects and advocating for institutional development, Ireland Stewart directly contributes to the advancement of educational excellence. Ultimately, Stewart guides St Ambrose University in its commitment to providing a robust liberal arts education within the United States.

    John Darmody - President

    John Darmody, the President at St Ambrose University, leads the institution with a focus on strategic growth and academic innovation. Overseeing the university's comprehensive operations, John Darmody ensures the delivery of high-quality education aligned with Catholic traditions and social justice principles. This pivotal role involves collaborating with leadership teams to implement forward-thinking policies and programs that benefit the student body and faculty. By championing new academic ventures and strengthening community ties, John Darmody directly enhances the university's reputation and effectiveness. Ultimately, Darmody guides St Ambrose University in its mission to cultivate intellectual curiosity and prepare students for impactful careers.

    Joan Lescinski - President

    Joan Lescinski, the President at St Ambrose University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the institution's continued development. Overseeing all facets of university operations, Joan Lescinski champions academic excellence and fosters a vibrant campus community grounded in Catholic values. This significant role involves engaging with stakeholders to advance the university's mission, secure resources, and enhance its national standing. By driving key institutional initiatives and promoting innovation, Joan Lescinski directly impacts the quality of education and student experience. Ultimately, Lescinski ensures St Ambrose University remains a leading center for liberal arts and social justice education within the United States.

    Kevin Randle - President

    Kevin Randle, the President at St Ambrose University, leads the institution's strategic planning and operational management. Overseeing the university's academic and administrative frameworks, Kevin Randle ensures alignment with its Catholic and liberal arts mission. This key role involves fostering a collaborative environment and driving initiatives that enhance student learning and faculty development. By guiding the university through evolving educational landscapes, Kevin Randle directly contributes to its sustained growth and reputation. Ultimately, Randle is committed to advancing the educational excellence and community impact of St Ambrose University across the United States.

    Carla Stevens - President

    Carla Stevens, the President at St Ambrose University, provides strategic leadership and oversight for the university's comprehensive operations. Overseeing academic programs and institutional development, Carla Stevens champions the university's commitment to liberal arts, social justice, and Catholic values. This vital role involves engaging with faculty, staff, and external partners to foster innovation and enhance the educational experience. By setting institutional priorities and guiding key initiatives, Carla Stevens directly influences the university's trajectory and impact. Ultimately, Stevens ensures St Ambrose University continues to thrive as a distinguished institution in Davenport, Iowa.

    Adam Kurth - Chief Information Officer

    Adam Kurth, the Chief Information Officer at St Ambrose University, directs all technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Overseeing the university's IT operations, Adam Kurth ensures robust cybersecurity measures and seamless integration of educational technologies. This leadership role involves managing the deployment of new software solutions and maintaining the integrity of student and faculty data systems. By optimizing network performance and supporting digital learning platforms, Adam Kurth directly enhances the academic and administrative functions of the institution. Ultimately, Kurth drives technological innovation to support St Ambrose University's mission of providing accessible and advanced educational resources across its Iowa operations.
    Adam Kurth

    Heppy Jacobs - St. Ambrose University

    Heppy Jacobs, the St. Ambrose University at St Ambrose University, oversees critical functions that support the university's educational mission. Driving key operational strategies, Heppy Jacobs ensures the efficient delivery of services essential to student success and faculty support. This role involves close collaboration with various departments to implement best practices and enhance institutional effectiveness. By focusing on strategic implementation and operational excellence, Heppy Jacobs directly contributes to the smooth functioning of the university. Ultimately, Jacobs supports St Ambrose University's commitment to providing a comprehensive and enriching academic environment in Davenport, Iowa.

    Abigail Carpenter - St. Ambrose University

    Abigail Carpenter, the St. Ambrose University at St Ambrose University, directs essential administrative and operational activities supporting the university's core objectives. Driving strategic initiatives, Abigail Carpenter ensures the effective implementation of policies that enhance the student and faculty experience. This position involves close coordination with various university divisions to optimize resource allocation and streamline processes. By focusing on operational efficiency and institutional advancement, Abigail Carpenter directly contributes to the university's overall success. Ultimately, Carpenter supports St Ambrose University's dedication to providing a high-quality educational environment in Davenport, Iowa.

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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 Edward Henkhaus (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Thomas Prior (President) and Ireland Stewart (President).
    Who is part of St Ambrose University’s executive team?
    The executive team of St Ambrose University includes leaders such as Edward Henkhaus (Chief Financial Officer), Thomas Prior (President), Ireland Stewart (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does St Ambrose University have?
    St Ambrose University has 10 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.