Academic Search Tapped by the University of Saint Mary to Find 10th President
February 17, 2026 – Education-focused executive recruiter Academic Search has been retained by the University of Saint Mary (USM), in Leavenworth, KS, to lead a national search for its 10th president. Senior consultants Suzanne Mellon and Disa Mason are leading the assignment.
The university is seeking a dynamic, mission-focused, and visionary leader who will build upon the achievements of the past decade and its distinctive contributions. The successful candidate will be expected to expand institutional resources, enhance engagement with neighboring communities, and articulate a clear and compelling vision that motivates the campus community, alumni, and philanthropic supporters to propel the university’s pursuit of continued excellence. The new president will take office on or before July 1, 2026.
The University of Saint Mary is at a crossroads in its history and presents a unique opportunity for presidential leadership. As the university embarks on this pivotal leadership transition, it is essential to acknowledge both the accomplishments of the past and the dynamic environment in which higher education institutions now operate. The next president will not only be tasked with upholding the traditions and values that define the University of Saint Mary but also with steering the institution through the complexities of a rapidly changing academic landscape.
The school is looking for a leader that is an excellent communicator with strong interpersonal skills; the ability to develop relationships and communicate effectively with students, faculty, staff, the board of trustees, the Sisters of Charity, alumnae/i and donors, and externally with the broader community. The next President should be adept at fostering an environment where innovation and growth are encouraged at every level of the university. This includes cultivating a spirit of inclusivity and respect across the campus community, empowering faculty and staff to pursue excellence, and facilitating opportunities for professional development and collaboration. A forward-thinking approach to challenges, particularly in the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education, will be essential.
The University of Saint Mary is a private Catholic university located in Leavenworth, Kansas. Founded in 1923 by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, the university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as business, education, health sciences, and the liberal arts.
For over three decades, Academic Search has been a leader in designing and implementing search processes for leaders of colleges and universities across the country. The firm has completed hundreds of executive searches for higher education institutions and related organizations, for roles ranging from presidents to provosts to deans. Academic Search has a formal relationship to a premier leadership development program. As the subsidiary of the American Academic Leadership Institute (AALI), the firm provides substantial financial support to a number of leadership identification, development, and support programs across all sectors of public and private higher education. The firm is headquartered in Washington, D.C.
Related: Academic Search Places New Provost for New Mexico State University
Dr. Mellon is president emerita of Carlow University, a masters comprehensive private university in Pittsburgh, PA, where she served as president and professor from 2013 to 2021. She has had a distinguished career in higher education administration for the past 23 years. Dr. Mellon joined Academic Search in 2021 and is transitioning to a senior executive coach. She has held leadership positions and served on regional, state, and national organizations in higher education and healthcare.
Ms. Mason’s experience at Academic Search spans nearly two decades, making her one of the most experienced members of the firm. In addition to her work as a consultant, she served for two years as the assistant director of Academic Search’s parent organization, the American Academic Leadership Institute, which greatly expands her network and ability to reach top-tier candidates.
Muskingum University Search
Academic Search was also selected by Muskingum University in New Concord, OH, to lead in its search for its 22nd president. Current president Susan Hasseler will retire in June 2026, after a decade of leadership. The search is being led by senior consultants Sharon D. Herzberger and Dan DiBiasio, along with Carly Place, associate consultant. The board of trustees seeks an innovative, collaborative, and decisive leader to build on the university’s 189- year history of academic excellence and achievement.
The next president of Muskingum University will bring a deep commitment to the liberal arts and a broad understanding of the role of higher education in an increasingly competitive landscape. The successful candidate will be a bold collaborator and a dynamic leader with a distinguished record of successful and progressive leadership in a complex organization.
Muskingum is dedicated to serving a “continuum of learners” and offers programs designed to meet their diverse needs. Academic options include more than 60 undergraduate majors, an adult degree completion program, master’s degrees and a doctoral program, and continuing education in partnership with local business and industry.
Related: Why Universities Have Stepped Up Efforts to Involve Search Firms
Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief; Dale M. Zupsansky, Managing Editor; and Stephen Sawicki, Managing Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media
