SXU Board of Trustees Selects Interim President

CHICAGO — Rebecca Sherrick, Ph.D., will serve as Saint Xavier University’s interim president beginning July 1. She was the unanimous choice of the board of trustees after a comprehensive review process guided by the higher education search firm AGB with input from a representative set of community constituents who participated in the search.

Sherrick recently concluded a 22-year tenure as president of Aurora University, making her one of the longest-serving presidents in the institution's history. Under her leadership, Aurora University experienced record growth, with increases in enrollment and a revitalization and renovation of the institution's main campus, all while maintaining strong financial health.

Dr. Rebecca Sherrick | SXU

She brings extensive administrative experience to Saint Xavier with a successful track record of strategically navigating the changes confronting higher education and championing mission-focused, student-centered initiatives committed to student outcomes. Sherrick initiated changes that improved access for students traditionally underserved by higher education.

“We are grateful for the vision, courage and committed leadership of President Laurie M. Joyner, which has elevated SXU's sacred Mercy mission,” said SXU board chair Tasha Henderson in a written statement. “During her tenure as president, Dr. Joyner led strategic initiatives that created new academic programs, increased enrollment and retention, expanded SXU's equity and inclusion agenda, and resulted in the emergence of a financially stable institution after decades of financial fragility.”

The SXU Board of Trustees will launch a national search for a permanent president in the coming months. Sherrick will begin her new role July 1.