Dr. Christine Pharr, a higher education administrator with more than 20 years of experience, became the 12th president of Mount Mary University in July.
“There is a real joy in telling the story of an institution like Mount Mary that meets the needs of such a diverse group of students – undergraduate women of all ethnicities, socioeconomic backgrounds, and faith traditions as well as men and women seeking graduate education in a faith-filled environment,” she said. “Mount Mary exists to lift up bold women as the next generation of citizens, workers and leaders. People want to be part of something as wonderful as Mount Mary, and we will spread the good news of this institution to all who will hear.”
Dr. Pharr previously served as vice president for alumnae and donor relations at the College of St. Mary in Omaha, Nebraska. Prior to that, she served as vice president for academic affairs at the College of St. Mary, and as academic dean and professor of chemistry at Lewis-Clark State College in Lewiston, Idaho.
“Dr. Pharr is an educator with a strong connection to the mission of Mount Mary University and the charism of the School Sisters of Notre Dame,” said Marie O’Brien, chair of the Board of Trustees. “Her leadership experience in both academic affairs and alumnae/donor relations, coupled with her ability to articulate a bold yet achievable future, provide Mount Mary with the skill set necessary to lead the institution.”
A South Dakota native, Dr. Pharr holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and chemistry from Mount Marty College in Yankton, S.D., a master’s degree in chemistry from the University of South Dakota, and a Ph.D. in analytical chemistry from the University of Idaho.
“I’m truly honored that Mount Mary University and the School Sisters of Notre Dame have put their trust in my ability to lead Mount Mary into the future,” Dr. Pharr said. “It is clear that the charism of the School Sisters resonates throughout the campus.”