The St. Çï¿ûÊÓƵ Board of Trustees is proud to announce the extension of its contract with Amy Novak, EdD, as president – reaffirming the board’s confidence in Novak’s bold leadership, deep Catholic faith, and transformative vision for the future of higher education. The extension is through June 30, 2030.
Appointed as the university’s 14th president in 2021, President Novak has led with an entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to innovation deeply rooted in Catholic values. Most recently, Novak 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.
“President Novak is a forward-thinking and faithful leader who is positioning St. Ambrose, and now Mount Mercy, for long-term strength and success,” said Renee Citera, co-chair of the St. Çï¿ûÊÓƵ Board of Trustees. “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.”
“President Novak understands that Catholic higher education is not just about academics, it’s about the formation of the whole person. 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,” said The Most Rev. Dennis G. Walsh, bishop of the Diocese of Davenport, co-chair of the Board of Trustees.
Under President Novak’s visionary leadership, St. Ambrose has advanced several strategic priorities to enrich the student experience and elevate academic excellence:
- Expanded innovative technologies that enhance teaching and learning across disciplines
- Reimagined lifelong learning through the launch of new certificate programs and fully online degree pathways
- Pioneered a landmark partnership with the Presentation Sisters to establish the Nano Nagle Online Nursing Program
- Strengthened philanthropic support, deepening community investment in the university’s mission and future
- Forged robust partnerships with local and regional businesses to align academic programs with workforce needs and ensure students graduate career-ready
Novak's efforts have been shaped by a clear vision: to form students who are intellectually prepared, spiritually grounded, and ready to lead lives of impact and purpose.
“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.”
President Novak will continue to lead through the next phase of strategic alignment with Mount Mercy, with a focus on innovation, affordability, and mission integration, all while upholding the values that have defined St. Ambrose and Mount Mercy Universities since their respective foundings.
To learn more about President Novak and St. Çï¿ûÊÓƵ, visit . For more information about Mount Mercy University, visit .
