President

Dr. Matthew J. Draud is a distinguished academic leader with over 20 years of administrative experience in higher education, Draud began his career as a full-time faculty member at Long Island University in 1997, achieving tenure and promotion to Associate Professor in 2003 and becoming Chair of the biology department, a position he held for 10 years. Promoted to Professor in 2009, Draud has published extensively in animal behavior and ecology. In 2013, he became a tenured Professor and Department Head at Armstrong State University, supervising a large faculty and student body. He later served as Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Siena Heights University and, in 2020, became Vice President for Academic Affairs at McMurry University. He has overseen significant growth and innovation, established new academic programs, and played a key role in various student affairs initiatives. He has also been instrumental in securing substantial gifts to support student success.

Draud received a Doctor of Philosophy from Lehigh University, a Master of Science from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and a Bachelor of Arts from Thomas More University, all within the Department of Biology. He has been involved in leadership development with the Future Presidents Intensive Educational Advisory Board, engaged in service, and has been published in several articles and a book.

Presidential Advisor, Capital Campaign Chair, Board Chair Emeritus

Steve Freeman ('69) is a formerly retired business professional with experience in higher education and pharmaceuticals. Freeman served on Briar Cliff's Board of Trustees for 12 years and as Chair from 2018 to 2022. A 1969 Briar Cliff alumnus, he received the University Medal in 2022 and was recognized as Board Chair Emeritus in 2023, both in honor of his service to Briar Cliff and his unwavering dedication and contributions to the University. 

Provost & Vice President of Academic & Student Affairs

Mark joined Briar Cliff University in 1984 as an Adjunct Professor. Most recently, he has served as a Tenured Professor, Department Chair of Business Administration, and Faculty Senate Chair. He holds a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from Creighton University and a  Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from Illinois State University.

Vice President of Finance 

John Robertson is the Vice President of Finance at Briar Cliff University. John provides leadership and manages financial services, including the business office. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Belmont University and a Master of Science in Strategic Finance from Bellevue University.

Vice President of University Advancement

Cori Koopman is the Vice President of University Advancement. Cori joined Briar Cliff in 2024 and has expertise in various facets of development, including capital campaigns, cultivation and stewardship, annual events, and more. She is a graduate of the University of Nebraska with a bachelor's degree in human development and family services. She also serves as a Sioux City Chamber Ambassador.

Vice President of Marketing & Enrollment Management

Suzie Fischer is the Vice President of Marketing & Enrollment Management. She is responsible for admissions, financial aid, marketing and communications, events, retail, print and mail, residence life, security, and Talent Search. Fischer holds a Bachelor of Arts from Morningside College and a Masters in Management in Leadership from Briar Cliff University.

Executive Director of Athletics

Tim Jager is the Executive Director of Athletics and oversees the University's athletic programs, ensuring alignment with NAIA and GPAC regulations. He supervises coaches and staff, promotes student-athlete success, enhances recruitment efforts, and supports student experience.