A cross-practice, cross-service Faegre Drinker team has advised St. Ambrose University (Davenport, Iowa) on a strategic transaction to ultimately combine with Mount Mercy University (Cedar Rapids, Iowa).
Pursuant to a definitive agreement signed on August 1, 2024, the first stage of the combination occurred on June 3, 2025, with St. Ambrose acquiring substantially all of the assets and becoming the parent organization of Mount Mercy. The two institutions will continue to operate under separate degree authorizations and accreditations, however, for a transition period of approximately one year. At the end of the transition period, pending additional regulatory approvals, the two universities will be fully combined under St. Ambrose with campuses, academic offerings and intercollegiate athletic programs in both Davenport and Cedar Rapids.
The combination is expected to strengthen student services, increase program offerings and expand regional impact, while also preserving the distinct histories and traditions that define each campus community. Once the institutions are fully combined, the Mount Mercy name also will be retained, with the Cedar Rapids location becoming the Mount Mercy Campus of St. Ambrose University.
