DAVENPORT, IOWA (April 20, 2026) — St Ambrose University has named Sister Jane Wakahiu LSOSF PhD as the keynote speaker for its 2026 Spring Commencement ceremony. She also will receive an honorary degree recognizing her leadership in global philanthropic and nonprofit work.
Sister Jane is associate vice president of program operations and head of the Catholic Sisters Initiative at the Conrad N Hilton Foundation. She oversees program operations, budgets, contracts, and policy implementation, and leads strategic planning and a global grantmaking portfolio supporting Catholic sisters in education, elder care, human development and ministries that advance dignity, peace and justice.
She previously served as interim vice president of strategy and programs for the foundation and serves on several boards, including Foundations and Donors Interested in Catholic Activities (FADICA), Tangaza University, and the Anna Trust Foundation.
Before joining the Hilton Foundation, Sister Jane was executive director of the African Sisters Education Collaborative, partnering with institutions in the United States and Africa to expand educational opportunities. She has taught at both undergraduate and graduate levels, led a high school in Kenya and directed women’s organizations.
Sister Jane is an author and contributor to the Global Sisters Report, with published research and international speaking experience. She holds a doctorate in human development from Marywood University, a master’s degree from Saint Bonaventure University, and a bachelor’s degree in education from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa.
“Sister Jane’s leadership reflects the mission of St Ambrose University — advancing human dignity, service and the common good,” said Amy C Novak EdD, president and CEO of St Ambrose University and Mount Mercy University. “Her global impact makes her an inspiring voice for our graduates as they begin their next chapter.”
The ceremony will be held at 11:30AM, Saturday, May 16, at Vibrant Arena at The MARK. More information is available on the university’s commencement webpage.
About St Ambrose University
Founded in 1882 by the Diocese of Davenport, St Ambrose University’s commitment to academic excellence, the liberal arts, social justice, and service is rooted in its Catholic intellectual tradition. The leading, private university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers more than fifty undergraduate and graduate programs. One-hundred and forty years since its inception, St Ambrose education remains centered on intentional, holistic, and experiential learning, with a vision to be a vibrant, sustainable, and learner-focused model for Catholic higher education, preparing individuals from all walks of life to lead lives characterized by our core values of courage, wisdom, justice, and service. To learn more about St Ambrose University, visit sau.edu.
