Executive positions announced

Lonna Drewelow ’86 has been named vice president for institutional advancement.

Drewelow has served Mount Mercy for more than 20 years, starting as capital campaign coordinator for the Vision for Tomorrow Campaign, which established the Busse Library. She has also served as director of alumni services, and most recently, as director of major gifts. In her new role she will provide strategic direction, vision and management of Mount Mercy’s comprehensive fundraising program and will serve as the institution’s chief development officer. “We are pleased to have Lonna’s leadership and vision continue to guide
Mount Mercy in her new capacity as vice president,” says President Christopher Blake. “Lonna’s experiences, talent and potential equip her excellently to undertake this executive role.”

Sister Shari Sutherland ’71 has been named executive director for Mercy mission and identity.

As executive director, Sr. Shari will supervise the Office of Campus Ministry, collaborate with faculty and staff to foster the institution’s mission and identity, and work to infuse and integrate Mount Mercy’s key foundational characteristics into all aspects of campus life and ministry.

Sr. Shari has previously served in various leadership positions in the religious community and with non-profit organizations in the Cedar Rapids area. She is the former vice president of the Cedar Rapids Sisters of Mercy, and has previously served as a case manager for Big Brothers Big Sisters, as the executive director of the Catherine McAuley Center, and as campus minister at the University of Iowa. She has been a valuable member of Mount Mercy’s Board of Trustees since 2003, a role she vacated upon assuming her new responsibility.

“I am excited for the opportunity to continue the advancement and promotion of Mount Mercy’s rich heritage and distinct Mercy tradition,” says Sr. Shari.