February 17, 2026 – The University of Saint Mary (USM) in Leavenworth, Kansas, is looking for its next president. The search is being led by Academic Search, with senior consultants Suzanne Mellon and Disa Mason at the helm.
USM wants a leader who can build on its strengths from the past decade. This person should expand resources, connect with the community, and inspire everyone—students, staff, alumni, and donors—with a clear vision for the university’s future. The goal is to achieve continuous excellence, with the new president starting by July 1, 2026.
USM is at a key moment in its history. The next president will face the challenge of honoring the university’s traditions while navigating the fast-changing world of higher education.
Strong communication skills are vital for this role. The new leader must foster relationships with various groups, including faculty, trustees, and the wider community. It’s important to create an innovative atmosphere where inclusivity thrives and everyone can grow.
Founded in 1923 by the Sisters of Charity, USM is a private Catholic university offering diverse programs in business, education, health sciences, and liberal arts. With an emphasis on community engagement and academic excellence, the university stands ready for its next chapter.
For over 30 years, Academic Search has specialized in helping higher education institutions find their leaders, executing various searches for roles ranging from presidents to deans. They bring expertise from their work across the nation, and as a part of the American Academic Leadership Institute, they support leadership development in higher ed.
Dr. Suzanne Mellon, former president of Carlow University, and Disa Mason, a long-time consultant, bring a wealth of experience to the search. Their backgrounds in higher education administration position them well to find the right fit for USM.
Meanwhile, Academic Search is also assisting Muskingum University in Ohio in its own search for a new president. The current president, Susan Hasseler, will retire in June 2026 after a decade of service. Experts believe Muskingum’s next leader will need to understand the liberal arts deeply and navigate an increasingly competitive educational landscape.
With over 60 undergraduate programs and various advanced degrees, Muskingum is committed to serving a diverse student body. This transition at both universities reflects broader trends in higher education, where leadership roles are becoming crucially important.
As institutions evolve, bringing in the right leadership can shape their futures significantly. It’s an exciting yet challenging time for the University of Saint Mary and Muskingum University as they seek dynamic leaders for the years ahead.
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