Statement from university presidents Dr. Amy Novak and Dr. Todd A. Olson

August 1, 2024

We are excited to share some transformative news with all of you. St. Ambrose University and Mount Mercy University have officially entered into a strategic agreement marking our intent to ultimately combine our institutions, subject to all applicable regulatory approvals.

We have completed months of due diligence and negotiations and our plans have received affirmation from both Boards of Trustees to move this work forward. This milestone is a significant step forward in our work to redefine Catholic higher education for the better.

What This Means:

• First, while we await regulatory approvals, we will continue our shared work to expand academic offerings, athletic programs, and innovative opportunities for students of both universities.
• The strategic agreement is being submitted to the Higher Learning Commission and other agencies for its regulatory reviews. If approvals are received, St. Ambrose will become the nonprofit parent organization of Mount Mercy, effective in summer 2025.
• We will then enter a transition period while the Department of Education conducts its regulatory review of the agreement. During this time, Mount Mercy will continue to operate as a separate university from St. Ambrose, maintaining its own degree authorization, accreditation, and federal student financial aid participation. This period is expected to last until mid-2026.
• Ultimately, our two universities will fully combine under St. Ambrose with distinct campuses and athletic programs in Davenport and Cedar Rapids. The Mount Mercy name will remain as the Mount Mercy Campus of St. Ambrose University.

We want to express our deepest gratitude to all of you for your dedication, hard work, and unwavering support. Your contributions have been invaluable in reaching this important milestone. We would like to spend special thanks to the members of our integration planning teams who are working hard to make this work a success.

This strategic combination will not only enrich our educational offerings but also foster growth and innovation within our vibrant campus communities. We are doing this important work in faith and prayer, and your efforts are a testament to our shared commitment to serving others and advancing Catholic higher education for generations to come.

We understand that this announcement may bring questions and curiosity. We are committed to providing transparent and timely updates throughout this process. For more information and frequently asked questions, please visit Education Together.

Together, we are better. This partnership embodies the spirit of collaboration and community that defines St. Ambrose University. Thank you for your continued faith, courage, and dedication as we embark on this exciting journey. If you have any further questions, please let us know.

Dr. Amy Novak, President, St. Ambrose University
Dr. Todd A. Olson, President, Mount Mercy University