Briar Cliff University Names Christie Finnegan Vice President of Advancement

Briar Cliff University Names Christie Finnegan Vice President of Advancement

September 15, 2026

(Sioux City, Iowa - September 15, 2026) Briar Cliff University is pleased to welcome Christie Finnegan as its new Vice President of Advancement. Finnegan officially began her role today.

Finnegan brings more than 25 years of experience in fundraising, advancement, marketing, communications, business development, and strategic growth. She most recently served as Marketing & Fund Development Manager for UnityPoint Health - St. Luke's, following seven years in a similar role with the June E. Nylen Cancer Center. Over the course of her career, she has secured philanthropic support through major gifts, grants, annual giving, and special events.

"I am particularly excited about the combination of Christie's advancement expertise, strategic leadership, and deep understanding of our community," said Dr. Matthew J. Draud, President of Briar Cliff University. "Her experience building relationships and connecting philanthropy to institutional priorities will be an important asset as we continue strengthening Briar Cliff's advancement efforts and positioning the University for long-term growth."

Finnegan is a Briar Cliff University alumna, having earned her Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from the institution. She has also served in numerous community leadership roles across Siouxland, including as Past Chair of the St. Luke's College Board of Directors, Past Vice Chair of the Sioux City Public Schools Foundation Board of Directors, and Past Co-Chair of Briar Cliff University's The 1930, a women's leadership initiative.

Sherri Taylor, who has served as Interim Vice President of Advancement, will support Finnegan's onboarding and provide continuity during the transition.