St. Ambrose University Endowment

St. Ambrose University Endowment

St. Ambrose University established its endowment in 1882. The fund originated from donations to the institution founded by the Bishop of Davenport. Amy C. Novak leads the university; Michael Poster serves as vice president for finance with direct responsibility for endowment oversight. The endowment holds public equity positions and limited partnership interests in private equity and real estate vehicles. Confirmed holdings include Adams Street Co-Investment Fund IIIA LP, Adams Street 2013 Global Fund LP, and ApexOne Multifamily Special Situation Fund IV, LP. Geographic exposure centers on North America with additional commitments to global emerging markets vehicles. The portfolio also contains direct ownership of campus real estate valued at approximately $110 million. The university employs 664 staff. Northern Trust acts as custodian and RSM US LLP serves as auditor. In 2024 the university announced a strategic merger with Mount Mercy University scheduled for completion by mid-2026. The endowment maintains membership in NACUBO and the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities. The endowment operates under the university's board governance with the Bishop of Davenport serving as co-chair. Investment decisions incorporate Catholic identity constraints that limit exposure to certain sectors.