Mount Mercy University and St. Ambrose University have taken the next step toward a shared future, celebrating the successful completion of Phase One in a two-step process to fully combine the two Catholic institutions. With St. Ambrose now serving as the parent organization of Mount Mercy, this milestone sets the stage for a stronger, more sustainable model of Catholic higher education in Iowa and the surrounding region.
Leaders from both universities gathered at Mount Mercy to reflect on their shared mission and express optimism about what’s ahead. The combination—expected to be finalized in Summer 2026 pending federal approval—will preserve each university’s distinct identity while strengthening student services, expanding academic offerings, and broadening regional impact.
We look forward to extending the conversation further as this collaboration continues to take shape with the joint input from members of both the Mount Mercy and St. Ambrose communities. Learn more about the agreement and statements of support below:
Even before talks of combination began, Mount Mercy and St. Ambrose have celebrated a long history of collaboration. Now, while embarking on this journey to combine, we have a great opportunity to share stories of the combined impact both schools have had on our alumni. Have a Mount Mercy and St. Ambrose story of your own? Reach out today!
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Mount Mercy University and St. Ambrose University
High school brought together Katie and Bob Gaffney, and now their chosen universities have created a new mutual connection.
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Clinical Specialist | Axonics
Reeann (McCarty) Huber’s academic path through Mount Mercy University and St. Ambrose University opened professional opportunities she didn’t initially envision.
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Mount Mercy University and St. Ambrose University
Kyle and Hillary Wehr—a married couple of Mount Mercy and St. Ambrose alumni who are living this partnership in their personal lives—bring a unique perspective to the evolving collaboration.
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Clinical Manager for Physical Therapy and Oncology Physical Therapist
Long before discussion of an institutional partnership between Mount Mercy University and St. Ambrose University, Nichole (Clefisch) Plagge was a beneficiary of the academic opportunities provided by both institutions.
Read moreIt seemed a little like destiny that our two alma maters would come together to drive the tradition of a Catholic liberal arts education forward in Eastern Iowa.
