Mount Mercy University has named Todd Olson its campus president, a role he will assume upon the completion of the university’s integration with St. Ambrose University.
Mr. Olson, who has served as president of Mount Mercy since 2021, will retain that title until the transaction receives federal approval. In his new role, he will continue providing on-site leadership for the Cedar Rapids campus while helping guide the ongoing integration with St. Ambrose, a Davenport-based Catholic institution.
Amy Novak, president and CEO of St. Ambrose University, announced the new appointment.
“(Mr.) Olson is a strong partner and mission-driven leader who is well-positioned to help guide our universities into the future,” Ms. Novak said. “His appointment reflects the strong momentum already underway and supports our shared focus on student success, innovation, and opportunity as we continue this important work together.”
As campus president, Mr. Olson will oversee daily operations at Mount Mercy and lead philanthropic, community and governmental engagement efforts. He will also represent Mount Mercy within the Conference for Mercy Higher Education, support the Mount Mercy Campus Board and maintain oversight of student services and engagement, athletics, facilities and public safety. He will also serve on the St. Ambrose University leadership team.
“I am enthused about continuing the innovative work of our combination, and continuing to lead the Mount Mercy campus in the years to come,” Mr. Olson said. “I look forward to collaborating with President Novak and our colleagues on both campuses to see that we are delivering a great experience for our students, and building a promising future for Catholic higher education together.”
Michele Busse, a St. Ambrose University board member and philanthropist who previously served as chair of the Mount Mercy Board of Trustees, also weighed in on the appointment.
“Todd is a trusted and innovative leader for Mount Mercy and our broader community, and he has been instrumental in the early success of the combination,” Ms. Busse said. “I am confident Mount Mercy will continue to thrive under his steady, forward-looking leadership.”
Mount Mercy, located in Cedar Rapids, enrolls more than 1,400 students and offers baccalaureate and graduate programs. St. Ambrose was founded in 1882 by the Diocese of Davenport and offers more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs.
