St Ambrose University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

St Ambrose University has 8 executives leading key functions including finance and strategy.

Driven by a commitment to liberal arts and social justice, St Ambrose University upholds its Catholic educational mission, fostering intellectual growth and community impact from its Davenport, Iowa location.

Leadership Roles at St Ambrose University

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

    Courtney Berg, the Chief Financial Officer at St Ambrose University, directs all fiscal operations and financial strategy. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the university's economic stability and sustainable growth. This leadership position involves managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining compliance with financial regulations. By implementing robust financial controls, Courtney Berg supports the university's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to managing endowments and capital expenditures, directly impacting the institution's long-term viability and capacity to serve its students and community. Berg's financial acumen is critical for navigating the evolving landscape of higher education funding.
    Courtney Berg

    Joan Lescinski - President

    Joan Lescinski, the President at St Ambrose University, sets the overarching strategic direction and vision for the institution. Leading all academic and administrative functions, the President ensures alignment with the university's Catholic and liberal arts mission. This executive role involves fostering a culture of academic excellence, promoting social justice initiatives, and enhancing the university's reputation. Joan Lescinski engages with stakeholders, including faculty, staff, students, alumni, and the wider community, to advance institutional goals. The President's responsibilities include overseeing curriculum development, faculty recruitment, and campus development. By championing innovation and student success, Joan Lescinski drives the university's impact in Davenport, Iowa, and beyond. Lescinski's leadership guides St Ambrose University's commitment to transformative education.

    Carla Stevens - President

    Carla Stevens, the President at St Ambrose University, spearheads strategic initiatives focused on institutional growth and community engagement. Directing key operational areas, the President ensures the university effectively delivers on its liberal arts and social justice commitments. This leadership role involves cultivating partnerships, enhancing student experience, and promoting the university's unique educational offerings. Carla Stevens works to strengthen the university's financial health and operational efficiency, supporting its independent, Catholic identity. The President's purview includes overseeing campus infrastructure improvements and program expansion. By driving forward-thinking strategies, Carla Stevens reinforces St Ambrose University's position as a leading educational institution in Iowa. Stevens's focus is on advancing the university's mission through collaborative leadership.

    Thomas Prior - President

    Thomas Prior, the President at St Ambrose University, guides the institution's strategic planning and operational execution. Overseeing the integration of academic programs with the university's Catholic and liberal arts foundation, the President ensures a cohesive educational experience. This executive position involves fostering an environment that champions social justice and intellectual inquiry. Thomas Prior works to enhance the university's standing and reach, engaging with diverse constituencies to support its mission. The President's responsibilities encompass driving innovation in teaching and learning, as well as managing institutional resources effectively. By championing student success and faculty development, Thomas Prior strengthens St Ambrose University's contribution to higher education. Prior's leadership emphasizes academic rigor and community impact.

    Ireland Stewart - President

    Ireland Stewart, the President at St Ambrose University, directs the strategic vision and operational framework of the institution. Leading the advancement of the university's liberal arts, social justice, and Catholic educational tenets, the President ensures programmatic excellence. This critical role involves fostering a dynamic campus environment that encourages scholarly pursuits and personal development. Ireland Stewart collaborates with university leadership to enhance student outcomes and expand institutional reach. The President's oversight includes managing key administrative departments and driving initiatives that support the university's independent status. By championing educational innovation and community partnerships, Ireland Stewart reinforces St Ambrose University's commitment to transformative learning. Stewart's leadership cultivates a forward-looking academic community.

    Kevin Randle - President

    Kevin Randle, the President at St Ambrose University, leads the institution's strategic development and operational management. Overseeing the implementation of academic and administrative policies, the President ensures adherence to the university's Catholic, liberal arts, and social justice values. This executive function involves fostering a collaborative environment that prioritizes student success and faculty achievement. Kevin Randle engages with internal and external stakeholders to advance the university's mission and enhance its community impact. The President's responsibilities include driving initiatives for institutional growth and financial sustainability. By championing educational innovation, Kevin Randle strengthens St Ambrose University's role as a vital center for learning in Iowa. Randle's leadership promotes academic excellence and holistic student development.

    John Darmody - President

    John Darmody, the President at St Ambrose University, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. Leading the advancement of the university's core tenets in liberal arts, social justice, and Catholic education, the President ensures programmatic integrity and innovation. This leadership position involves cultivating a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment for students and faculty. John Darmody collaborates with university leadership to enhance student outcomes, foster community partnerships, and strengthen the university's financial health. The President's purview includes overseeing key administrative functions and driving initiatives that align with the university's independent status. By championing educational excellence, John Darmody reinforces St Ambrose University's commitment to transformative learning experiences. Darmody's leadership focuses on institutional growth and mission fulfillment.

    Heppy Jacobs - St. Ambrose University

    Heppy Jacobs, the St. Ambrose University at St Ambrose University, contributes to the strategic direction and operational effectiveness of the institution. This role involves supporting key initiatives that align with the university's Catholic, liberal arts, and social justice mission. Heppy Jacobs works to enhance the student experience and foster a vibrant academic community. The responsibilities include collaborating with various departments to ensure seamless operations and program delivery. By focusing on institutional advancement and community engagement, Heppy Jacobs supports St Ambrose University's commitment to providing quality education. Jacobs's efforts contribute to the university's ongoing success and its impact 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 Courtney Berg (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Joan Lescinski (President) and Carla Stevens (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), Joan Lescinski (President), Carla Stevens (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.