Statements of support from the Sisters of Mercy

August 1, 2024

The Sisters of Mercy in Cedar Rapids have been committed to Mercy Catholic higher education for almost 100 years. Today, Mount Mercy University enters a new moment in its long history. We embrace a new partner – St. Ambrose University – and an exciting future where our shared values and dedication to excellence will bring enhanced opportunities to students, faculty, staff and the wider civic community. We are grateful for the vision, courage and perseverance that has brought all of us to today and will continue to create the path forward.

Sister Patricia Flynn RSM
Vice President of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas

May 6, 2024

We want to commend Presidents Todd Olson and Amy Novak as well as the members of each University’s Board of Trustees and senior leadership for their vision, forward thinking and commitment to Catholic higher education in Eastern Iowa.

We have met with both presidents and have heard their plans for the future relationships between both institutions and the proposed next steps. We affirm and support the courageous efforts to collaboratively strengthen Catholic higher education in the region.

We recognize the authentic commitment to our Mercy charism and encourage you to continue to preserve the nearly 100-year-old legacy of the Sisters of Mercy in Cedar Rapids and we look forward to the ways in which you will evolve and animate Mercy into the future.

In Mercy,

Sisters Susan Sanders, Patricia Flynn, Teresa Bednarz, Judith Frikker and Maureen King, The Institute Leadership Team of the Sisters of Mercy
Jane Gerety, RSM, Ph.D., Chair of the Board
Julia Cavallo, Ed.D., Executive Director, The Conference for Mercy Higher Education