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August 26, 2026Briar Cliff University has welcomed five new members to its Board of Trustees, bringing a broad range of experience in higher education, business, finance, and institutional leadership to the University’s governing board.
The new trustees are Steve Freeman ‘69, Dr. Sandra Harper, Jennifer Letch, Timm Funk ‘77, and Craig McGarry.
“Briar Cliff benefits from the experience, expertise, and commitment of our Board of Trustees,” said Briar Cliff President Dr. Matthew Draud. “These five individuals bring the knowledge and leadership that will strengthen the University as we continue to build on our mission and prepare for the future.”
Freeman
Freeman, a 1969 Briar Cliff graduate, previously served Briar Cliff as Interim President and is a Board Chair Emeritus. His longstanding connection with the University provides a valuable institutional perspective and a deep understanding of Briar Cliff’s mission and history.
Dr. Harper
Dr. Harper joins the Board following a career in higher education leadership. She is the retired President of McMurray University, where she brought extensive experience in leadership, strategic planning, and higher education administration. 
Letch
Letch serves as Executive Officer of Empirical Foods, bringing experience in business leadership and operations to the Board. Her professional background provides additional expertise as Briar Cliff continues to strengthen its academic and operational initiatives.
Funk
Funk, a 1977 Briar Cliff accounting graduate, is the founder and owner of CFO Next, Inc., where he provides support to profit and non-profit organizations in growing cash flow and productivity.
McGarry se
McGarryrves as Executive Vice President of Core Bank’s Wealth Management Group. His experience in financial services, wealth management, and organizational leadership will contribute to the Board’s oversight and long-term strategic planning.
Together, the new trustees add expertise spanning higher education, finance, business, and nonprofit leadership to the Board. Their appointments come as Briar Cliff continues work outlined in its strategic plan to strengthen the University and position it for long-term growth and stability.
“Briar Cliff is entering an exciting period of growth and opportunity,” Dr. Draud said. “The perspective these trustees bring will be especially valuable as we make decisions that shape the university for years to come.”
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