The St. Ambrose University Board of Trustees has extended its contract with President Amy Novak through June 30, 2030, reaffirming the board’s confidence in her “bold leadership, deep Catholic faith, and transformative vision for the future of higher education.”
Novak, appointed in 2021, serves as St. Ambrose University’s 14th president. She has “led with an entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to innovation deeply rooted in Catholic values,” the university’s news release states. Most recently, she played a “pivotal role in the university’s ongoing integration with Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, an effort that reflects a groundbreaking model for mission-centered collaboration and shared sustainability in Catholic higher education,” the statement said.
“President Novak understands that Catholic higher education is not just about academics, it’s about the formation of the whole person,” said Bishop Dennis Walsh, co-chair of SAU’s Board of Trustees. “Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to faith and the common good. In a time of great challenge and change, she is building a future where the Catholic intellectual tradition doesn’t just survive but thrives.”
SAU Board of Trustees co-chair Renee Citera described Novak as “a forward-thinking and faithful leader who is positioning St. Ambrose, and now Mount Mercy, for long-term strength and success. She has the rare ability to honor tradition while innovating boldly toward what’s next. We are excited for her continued leadership for many years to come.”
Under Novak’s leadership, SAU has expanded innovative technologies that enhance teaching and learning across disciplines, launched new certificate programs and fully online degree programs for lifelong learning opportunities, and partnered with the Presentation Sisters to establish the Nano Nagle Online Nursing Program. In addition, the university has strengthened philanthropic support, deepening community investment in the university’s mission and future, and forged partnerships with local and regional businesses to align academic programs with workforce needs and ensure students graduate career-ready.
“I’m deeply honored to continue serving the St. Ambrose community,” Novak said. “This is a university rooted in faith, animated by service and full of potential. Together, we’re building something resilient and deeply needed, a Catholic university that meets today’s challenges with courage, care and a commitment to the common good.”
