Mount Mercy Campus Board Strengthens Local Stewardship, Advocacy, and Mission

Following the transition to a shared governing structure under the St. Ambrose University Board of Trustees, Mount Mercy University established the Mount Mercy Campus Board to ensure the university's distinctive identity, Catholic heritage, and Mercy mission remain central to its future.

The Mount Mercy Campus Board is a mission-focused, non-governing board that provides local stewardship and advocacy for the university. Board members serve as ambassadors for Mount Mercy throughout Cedar Rapids and the Corridor, helping strengthen community connections, advance strategic partnerships, and champion the institution's values and priorities.

The creation of the Campus Board reflects a shared commitment by Mount Mercy and St. Ambrose to preserve the distinctive character of both institutions. While governance is provided by the St. Ambrose University Board of Trustees, the Campus Board ensures Mount Mercy maintains a strong local presence and voice within the Cedar Rapids community.

"The Board is off to a very strong start, and one mark of their commitment was the Board financial giving challenge for Have Mercy Give Mercy this spring," said Todd Olson, PhD, president of Mount Mercy University. "Every single member of the Board made a commitment to this challenge, and that helped fuel the largest-ever total giving on this day. Along with this support, Board members are helping develop strategic partnerships for Mount Mercy across the Corridor and strengthening the visibility of Mount Mercy. I am enthused and grateful for their leadership and hard work."

During its inaugural year, the Campus Board focused on building a strong foundation for long-term impact. Members established committee structures, engaged in strategic planning discussions, identified priorities, and began advancing initiatives designed to strengthen community engagement, support philanthropy, enhance Mount Mercy's visibility, and reinforce the university's Mercy mission.

The board brings together alumni, community leaders, Sisters of Mercy, and professionals with expertise across business, healthcare, education, philanthropy, and civic engagement, creating a powerful network of advocates dedicated to Mount Mercy's future success. A full list of Mount Mercy Campus Board members can be found here.

"We have an engaged and talented Board, a shared sense of purpose, and an opportunity to strengthen Mount Mercy University's identity, expand community engagement, and support the continued success of the strategic combination with St. Ambrose University," said LeAnn Ridgeway, chair of the Mount Mercy Campus Board. "I am confident that, together, we can make a meaningful and lasting contribution to the future of Mount Mercy and the students we serve."

As the university continues its strategic combination with St. Ambrose University, the Campus Board will remain focused on preserving and advancing Mount Mercy's mission while serving as a champion for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the broader community.