St Ambrose University Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

St Ambrose University has 8 executives leading key functions including financial oversight, academic administration, and institutional leadership.

Committed to fostering academic excellence and social justice, St Ambrose University empowers students through a comprehensive liberal arts curriculum rooted in Catholic values and community engagement.

Leadership Roles at St Ambrose University

  • Chief Financial Officer - Courtney Berg
  • President - Carla Stevens
  • President - John Darmody
  • President - Joan Lescinski
  • President - Thomas Prior
  • President - Kevin Randle
  • President - Ireland Stewart
  • 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 long-term budgetary planning for the institution. Managing the university's endowment and operational funds, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the financial sustainability required to support diverse liberal arts programs. Berg oversees the allocation of resources across various departments, maintaining strict compliance with diocesan standards and educational regulations. By optimizing revenue streams and controlling institutional expenditures, Berg strengthens the university's ability to invest in campus infrastructure and student services. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the Board of Trustees to align financial strategies with the broader mission of academic growth. Through rigorous financial analysis and risk management, the Chief Financial Officer secures the economic foundation necessary for the university to thrive within the competitive landscape of higher education in the Midwest.
    Courtney Berg

    Carla Stevens - President

    Carla Stevens, the President at St Ambrose University, architects the overarching vision and strategic direction for the entire academic institution. Focusing on the expansion of liberal arts programs, the President drives initiatives that promote social justice and academic rigor across all departments. Stevens oversees the faculty recruitment process and ensures the maintenance of high educational standards consistent with the university's Catholic identity. This leadership role involves frequent interaction with the Board of Trustees to define long-term goals and institutional priorities. By championing innovation in teaching and research, Stevens elevates the university's profile within the national higher education landscape. Through the implementation of comprehensive growth strategies, the President secures the resources necessary to support student success and faculty development. Ultimately, Stevens maintains the integrity of the university's mission while navigating the complexities of modern academic administration.

    John Darmody - President

    John Darmody, the President at St Ambrose University, manages the operational efficiency and administrative infrastructure of the university campus. Focusing on the optimization of student services and campus facilities, the President drives improvements in the daily experience of the student body. Darmody oversees the coordination between academic departments and administrative support units to ensure seamless service delivery. This leadership role involves managing large-scale capital projects and facility upgrades that support the university's educational mission. By streamlining internal processes and enhancing operational workflows, Darmody increases the overall effectiveness of the institution. Through consistent oversight of campus resources, the President ensures that the university environment remains conducive to learning and personal growth. Darmody maintains a focus on operational excellence to support the long-term viability of the university's academic programs and community initiatives.

    Joan Lescinski - President

    Joan Lescinski, the President at St Ambrose University, directs the development and implementation of academic policies that define the university's intellectual character. Focusing on the advancement of the liberal arts and social justice curriculum, the President drives the creation of new degree programs that meet contemporary market demands. Lescinski oversees the accreditation process and ensures that all academic offerings align with the university's mission and Catholic values. This leadership role involves working with department heads to foster a culture of research and scholarly inquiry. By promoting academic excellence, Lescinski enhances the university's reputation for producing well-rounded graduates prepared for professional success. Through the strategic expansion of academic offerings, the President ensures the university remains a leader in higher education. Lescinski maintains a commitment to rigorous academic standards while fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.

    Thomas Prior - President

    Thomas Prior, the President at St Ambrose University, manages the university's external relations and fundraising efforts to support institutional growth. Focusing on donor engagement and alumni relations, the President drives campaigns that secure the financial future of the university. Prior oversees the development of strategic partnerships with corporate and philanthropic entities to fund scholarships and research initiatives. This leadership role involves representing the university at national forums and advocating for the importance of liberal arts education. By cultivating a strong network of supporters, Prior ensures the university has the necessary resources to invest in new technologies and campus improvements. Through effective communication of the university's mission, the President builds lasting relationships that benefit the entire academic community. Prior maintains a focus on long-term sustainability and institutional advancement to ensure the university continues to thrive.

    Kevin Randle - President

    Kevin Randle, the President at St Ambrose University, directs the university's diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to foster a welcoming campus culture. Focusing on the integration of social justice principles into student life, the President drives programs that support underrepresented populations and promote community cohesion. Randle oversees the implementation of policies that ensure equitable access to educational opportunities and campus resources. This leadership role involves collaborating with student organizations and faculty committees to address systemic challenges and improve the campus climate. By championing inclusive practices, Randle enhances the university's commitment to its Catholic mission of service and social responsibility. Through the development of comprehensive support systems, the President ensures that every student has the opportunity to succeed. Randle maintains a focus on creating a vibrant and diverse academic community that prepares students for a globalized world.

    Ireland Stewart - President

    Ireland Stewart, the President at St Ambrose University, manages the university's technological infrastructure and digital transformation efforts. Focusing on the integration of modern learning tools into the classroom, the President drives the adoption of innovative educational technologies that enhance student engagement. Stewart oversees the IT department and ensures the security and reliability of the university's digital systems. This leadership role involves planning for future technological needs and ensuring that the campus remains at the forefront of digital innovation. By leveraging data analytics and digital platforms, Stewart improves administrative efficiency and student support services. Through the strategic investment in technology, the President ensures the university provides a modern and effective learning environment. Stewart maintains a focus on digital excellence to support the university's academic mission and prepare students for the demands of the modern workforce.

    Heppy Jacobs - St. Ambrose University

    Heppy Jacobs, the St. Ambrose University at St Ambrose University, manages strategic partnerships and community outreach initiatives that expand the institution's regional influence. Coordinating with local stakeholders and educational organizations, the St. Ambrose University drives collaborative projects that enhance the university's reputation for social justice and academic excellence. Jacobs oversees the integration of community-based learning opportunities into the core curriculum, ensuring students gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge. This role requires constant engagement with external partners to secure funding and support for university-led initiatives. By fostering these connections, Jacobs strengthens the university's position as a pillar of the Davenport community. Through the development of sustainable outreach programs, Jacobs ensures the university remains responsive to the evolving needs of the region while upholding the foundational values of the institution.

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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 Carla Stevens (President) and John Darmody (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), Carla Stevens (President), John Darmody (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.