5 Major Transformations At Briar Cliff University That Will Define Its Future (2025 Update)
Briar Cliff University (BCU) is not standing still, and the end of 2025 marks a period of significant, transformative change for the Sioux City, Iowa institution. This article, updated on December 15, 2025, details the most critical developments, from a new presidential inauguration to ambitious new academic programs and a record-breaking fundraising campaign that is reshaping the campus experience.
The university is forging a path focused on accessibility, academic rigor, and student experience, highlighted by a new dual-degree engineering partnership and a major tuition advantage program aimed at local workforce development. These moves signal a clear commitment to securing BCU’s future as a vital regional educational leader.
The 13th President: Dr. Matthew J. Draud Biography Profile
The leadership transition at Briar Cliff University is one of the most significant recent developments, culminating in the formal inauguration of Dr. Matthew J. Draud as the 13th President in March 2025.
- Name: Dr. Matthew J. Draud
- Title: 13th President of Briar Cliff University
- Inauguration Date: Formal ceremony held in March 2025.
- Appointment Date: Announced by the Board of Trustees in June 2024.
- Experience: A distinguished academic leader with over 20 years of administrative experience in higher education.
- Background: Began his career as a former biology professor, demonstrating a strong foundation in academic instruction and research.
- Vision: His tenure is focused on enhancing the university's mission and driving new strategic initiatives, including academic partnerships and fundraising efforts.
Dr. Draud’s extensive background as a college administrator and educator is expected to guide the university through its current period of growth and expansion, focusing on both the academic quality and the overall student experience.
Academic Expansion and New Programs for the 2025-2026 Academic Year
Briar Cliff University is aggressively expanding its academic portfolio and accessibility, addressing the needs of both traditional students and the local workforce. These initiatives are designed to boost enrollment and solidify BCU's role in regional development.
The New Dual-Degree Engineering Program
A major highlight for the Fall 2025 semester is the launch of a new dual-degree engineering program, established through a partnership with the University of North Dakota (UND).
- Program Structure: Students will complete a portion of their studies at Briar Cliff, focusing on foundational science and liberal arts, before transferring to UND to complete their specialized engineering degree.
- Goal: This partnership provides BCU students with a direct, structured pathway to a highly sought-after engineering degree while retaining the small-college experience for their initial years.
- Start Date: The program is set to welcome its first cohort in Fall 2025.
Partner Tuition Advantage (PTA) Program
In a move to increase educational access for working professionals, BCU formally introduced its new Partner Tuition Advantage (PTA) program in December 2025.
- Key Partnership: The Crittenton Center in Sioux City was announced as one of the first partners in this program.
- Benefit: The PTA program provides specific tuition advantages and educational opportunities for employees of partner organizations, making higher education more affordable and accessible to those already in the workforce.
- Strategy: This initiative is a key component of the university's strategy to engage with the local community and support career advancement.
Financial Health, Campus Upgrades, and Student Life Success
The university's commitment to modernization and student support is evident in its successful fundraising and physical campus improvements, ensuring a vibrant future for the institution.
Foundations for the Future Campaign Success
Briar Cliff University’s ambitious "Foundations for the Future Comprehensive Campaign" has achieved remarkable success, demonstrating strong support from alumni and benefactors.
- Initial Goal: The minimum goal for the campaign was set at $10 million.
- Victory Goal Achieved: The university successfully reached its $12 million Victory Goal.
- New Target: Following the success, the campaign goal has been raised to $15 million to further enhance affordability and improve the on-campus student experience.
Heelan Hall Renovation and Campus Improvements
A significant portion of the campaign funds is dedicated to enhancing campus facilities. The historic Heelan Hall renovation project recently concluded, focusing on critical upgrades.
- Scope: The project involved expanding academic spaces, upgrading essential building systems, and enhancing accessibility features across the hall.
- Impact: This renovation directly supports a better learning environment for students and faculty, modernizing one of the university’s most important buildings.
NAIA Athletics and Student Achievements
Briar Cliff University, known as the Chargers, maintains a strong tradition in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
- Athletic History: Since 1966, the Chargers have been represented in 10 national championships, secured 12 GPAC (Great Plains Athletic Conference) championships, and made 61 NAIA tournament appearances across various sports.
- Recent Recognition: The university's Physical Therapy program won the 2024 APTA (American Physical Therapy Association) Student Advocacy Challenge, mobilizing students in key advocacy efforts.
- Sports Entities: Key athletic programs include Men's Basketball, Women's Basketball, and the Sports Management program, which benefits from proximity to major NAIA national championship host sites like the Tyson Events Center.
Tuition, Financial Aid, and Notable Alumni (LSI Entities)
Understanding the financial landscape and the success of past graduates is crucial for prospective students considering Briar Cliff University.
2025-2026 Tuition and Financial Support
Briar Cliff is a private institution, and while the listed tuition is substantial, the university offers significant financial aid to offset the cost for most students.
- Full-Time Undergraduate Tuition (2025-2026): $37,322.
- Graduate School Tuition & Fees (2025): $9,738.
- Average Financial Aid: The average financial aid award for the 2025-2026 academic year is $34,022, which includes federal, state, and institutional aid.
- Online Costs: Tuition for online students is structured per credit hour, with the 2025-2026 rate at $375 per credit hour.
Briar Cliff University Notable Alumni
The success of the university's graduates spans politics, media, and the arts, reflecting the breadth of its academic offerings.
Notable alumni and influential entities include:
- Matt McCoy: An influential Iowa politician.
- Dolores Mertz: Another prominent Iowa politician.
- Mike Wankum: A well-known media figure.
- Chris Taylor: A stand-up comedian featured on national television specials.
- Kent Lovern: A prominent legal figure.
- Gwen Hennessey: Known for her work in religious and community service.
- Micha Lally Herbst: Recipient of the 2022 Distinguished Alumni Award for her community volunteerism.
Briar Cliff University Rankings and Reputation
The university's reputation is highlighted by various national and specialized rankings, often noted for its diversity and commitment to student safety.
- Washington Monthly (2024): Ranked 356th among National Universities.
- Niche Rankings: Recognized as one of the Most Diverse Colleges in America (#164 of 1,615) and for having one of the Safest College Campuses.
- Shiksha Popularity Ranking (2025): Ranked #349 at the national level.
- Accreditation: Briar Cliff is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
- Location: The campus is strategically located in Sioux City, Iowa, offering students access to a vibrant regional metropolitan area.
The combined efforts in leadership, academics, and fundraising—all evident in the 2025 updates—position Briar Cliff University for continued relevance and growth in the competitive higher education landscape. Its focus on practical partnerships and a robust student experience ensures it remains a top choice for students in the Midwest and beyond.
Detail Author:
- Name : Birdie Johns
- Username : delia02
- Email : abeatty@yahoo.com
- Birthdate : 1995-09-13
- Address : 1767 Gleason Trafficway New Dejontown, VT 93796
- Phone : 1-531-503-8589
- Company : Sauer, Sauer and Cassin
- Job : Paralegal
- Bio : A totam incidunt error delectus eos. Quia consequatur mollitia provident neque delectus. Quos quas ea sapiente ea sint pariatur ab. Id id molestiae porro nihil fuga modi.
Socials
tiktok:
- url : https://tiktok.com/@yundt1981
- username : yundt1981
- bio : Vel dolores cumque ut hic quidem assumenda. Ut dolorum ad odio dicta beatae.
- followers : 6293
- following : 1250
linkedin:
- url : https://linkedin.com/in/yundt2001
- username : yundt2001
- bio : Qui possimus voluptatem quo.
- followers : 5995
- following : 976
facebook:
- url : https://facebook.com/maverickyundt
- username : maverickyundt
- bio : In reiciendis qui inventore.
- followers : 1000
- following : 446
instagram:
- url : https://instagram.com/yundtm
- username : yundtm
- bio : Non occaecati reiciendis et omnis maiores et. Autem quaerat asperiores recusandae qui et at.
- followers : 6612
- following : 1715
twitter:
- url : https://twitter.com/yundtm
- username : yundtm
- bio : Dolorem nobis est exercitationem tempora fugit vel quibusdam. Eum est illum ratione. Quis eius minima voluptas consequatur libero.
- followers : 3719
- following : 2040
