A New Chapter for John Carroll
In April 2025, John Carroll University launched a national search for its 27th president. With President Al Miciak planning to retire at the end of the 2025–26 academic year, the university sought a leader who could carry forward its mission, sustain its momentum, and implement a strong vision for the future.
President Miciak’s tenure has been marked by transformational change, including the launch of the Inspired Futures strategy and key investments that strengthened academics and student success. Throughout the search process, the Presidential Search Committee, in partnership with WittKieffer, a global executive firm, led an eight-month comprehensive process.
On Tuesday, December 2, 2025, Carolyn Noll Sorg, John Carrroll's current Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing, was selected by the Board of Directors as the 27th president of John Carroll University. She will officially take the helm at the university on June 1, 2026, coinciding with President Miciak's retirement.
To read her full announcement and watch her message to the JCU community, click here.
Leadership Profile
As part of the presidesidential search process, a Leadership Profile was created that defined the expectations and opportunities for JCU’s next president. The profile was informed by listening sessions and community feedback.
Search Updates
- December 2025: Carolyn Noll Sorg, the university's current Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing, was named as John Carroll University's 27th president by the Board of Directors.
- October 2025: Presidential Search Update #4 – Committee is on schedule to announce a new president by the end of 2025
- September 2025: Presidential Search Update #3 – Committee will conduct confidential first-round interviews with the robust pool of candidates
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June 2025: Presidential Search Update #2 – Leadership Profile Finalized
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May 2, 2025: Presidential Search Update #1 – Listening Sessions Launched
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April 25, 2025: Presidential Search Committee Nominations Open
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April 7, 2025: Presidential Retirement Announcement
Search Committee
The Presidential Search Committee included 12 representatives from across the JCU community, including representatives from the faculty, staff, study body, and Board of Directors. This group was tasked with ensuring a thoughtful and mission-driven search process.
Search Timeline
August – October 2025: Developed position profile, conducted outreach, and solicited candidate nominationsOctober – November 2025: Recruited and engageed candidates, Semi-finalist selection and interviews
December 2025: John Carroll University's 27th president was selected by the JCU Board of Directors
Contact Us
If you have questions or comments for the search committee, contact us at boardchair@jcu.edu.
