St Ambrose University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

St Ambrose University has 10 executives leading key functions including finance, information technology, 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 ethical development for all students.

Leadership Roles at St Ambrose University

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

    Courtney Berg, the Chief Financial Officer at St Ambrose University, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the university's long-term financial health and sustainability. This leadership role involves managing investments, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining compliance with all financial regulations. By implementing robust financial controls, Courtney Berg directly supports the university's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to managing endowments and capital expenditures, driving efficient operational performance across all departments. Berg's strategic financial management underpins the institution's ability to expand academic programs and enhance student services, securing its position as a leading educational provider in Iowa.
    Courtney Berg

    John Darmody - President

    John Darmody, the President at St Ambrose University, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Overseeing all academic, administrative, and operational facets, the President ensures the university uphms its mission and values. This pivotal role involves fostering a culture of academic excellence, promoting community engagement, and driving institutional growth. By setting the vision for St Ambrose University, John Darmody directly guides its development and impact. The President's responsibilities include representing the university to external stakeholders, managing relationships with the Board of Trustees, and championing fundraising efforts. Darmody's leadership ensures the continued success and advancement of the university's educational offerings and student support services.

    Thomas Prior - President

    Thomas Prior, the President at St Ambrose University, spearheads the strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. Overseeing all university functions, the President ensures alignment with the core mission of providing liberal arts education grounded in Catholic tradition. This leadership position involves cultivating an environment of scholarly inquiry and student success. By guiding institutional policy and development, Thomas Prior directly advances the university's objectives. The President's duties encompass fostering strong relationships with faculty, staff, alumni, and the wider community, while also managing key partnerships. Prior's commitment to academic integrity and student welfare shapes the ongoing trajectory of St Ambrose University.

    Kevin Randle - President

    Kevin Randle, the President at St Ambrose University, drives the strategic direction and overall management of the institution. Overseeing academic programs, student affairs, and administrative operations, the President ensures the university uphms its Catholic and liberal arts mission. This leadership role involves fostering innovation in teaching and learning, and promoting a vibrant campus community. By championing the university's values, Kevin Randle directly enhances its educational impact. The President's responsibilities include engaging with the Board of Trustees, cultivating donor relations, and representing St Ambrose University in public forums. Randle's leadership is instrumental in guiding the institution toward continued growth and academic distinction.

    Joan Lescinski - President

    Joan Lescinski, the President at St Ambrose University, provides visionary leadership and strategic oversight for the institution. Overseeing all aspects of university operations, Lescinski ensures the consistent delivery of high-quality education aligned with Catholic principles and liberal arts traditions. This executive position involves fostering academic excellence, promoting research, and enhancing the student experience. By guiding the university's strategic planning, Joan Lescinski directly advances its mission and goals. The President's responsibilities include managing institutional resources, building key partnerships, and advocating for the university's interests. Lescinski's leadership cultivates an environment of continuous improvement and institutional growth at St Ambrose University.

    Carla Stevens - President

    Carla Stevens, the President at St Ambrose University, directs the strategic vision and operational framework of the institution. Overseeing academic endeavors, student development, and administrative functions, Stevens ensures the university uphms its commitment to liberal arts and social justice education. This leadership role involves fostering an inclusive and dynamic learning environment. By championing institutional priorities, Carla Stevens directly contributes to the university's mission. The President's responsibilities include engaging with faculty, staff, and external constituencies to advance the university's objectives. Stevens's guidance supports the ongoing success and reputation of St Ambrose University as a distinguished educational institution.

    Ireland Stewart - President

    Ireland Stewart, the President at St Ambrose University, provides strategic leadership and executive oversight for the institution. Overseeing academic affairs, campus operations, and institutional development, Stewart ensures the university uphms its Catholic identity and liberal arts mission. This role involves fostering a culture of innovation and academic excellence. By guiding the university's long-term vision, Ireland Stewart directly advances its educational impact. The President's responsibilities include cultivating relationships with stakeholders, managing financial resources, and representing St Ambrose University in the broader community. Stewart's leadership ensures the continued growth and success of the university's academic programs and student support services.

    Adam Kurth - Chief Information Officer

    Adam Kurth, the Chief Information Officer at St Ambrose University, architects and executes the institution's technology strategy. Overseeing all IT infrastructure, digital platforms, and cybersecurity measures, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless technological operations that support academic and administrative functions. This critical role involves driving innovation in educational technology, enhancing data management systems, and providing robust support for faculty and students. By championing digital transformation initiatives, Adam Kurth directly enables enhanced learning experiences and operational efficiencies. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include managing IT budgets, leading technology teams, and ensuring the security and integrity of university data. Kurth's leadership ensures St Ambrose University remains at the forefront of technological advancement in higher education.
    Adam Kurth

    Abigail Carpenter - St. Ambrose University

    Abigail Carpenter, the St. Ambrose University at St Ambrose University, contributes to the institution's strategic initiatives and operational effectiveness. Overseeing specific departmental functions, Carpenter ensures the smooth execution of programs aligned with the university's educational mission. This role involves collaborating with various stakeholders to enhance student services and academic support. By focusing on key areas of responsibility, Abigail Carpenter directly supports the university's commitment to fostering intellectual and personal growth. Carpenter's efforts contribute to the overall vitality and success of St Ambrose University, reinforcing its dedication to providing a comprehensive and values-driven educational experience.

    Heppy Jacobs - St. Ambrose University

    Heppy Jacobs, the St. Ambrose University at St Ambrose University, plays a key role in advancing the institution's strategic objectives. Overseeing specific operational areas, Jacobs ensures the effective implementation of programs designed to enhance the student experience and academic delivery. This position involves close collaboration with various university departments to foster synergy and efficiency. By focusing on critical aspects of university management, Heppy Jacobs directly supports the mission of St Ambrose University. Jacobs's contributions are vital to maintaining the institution's commitment to academic rigor and holistic student development, reinforcing its standing 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 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.