(Radio Iowa) – St. Ambrose University in Davenport became the parent organization today (Friday) in the merger with Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids. Mount Mercy President Todd Olson says its the first of two steps as the two combine.

Olson says there have been many conversations and steps to get the process to this point.

St. Ambrose University President Amy Novak talked about the benefits of the move.

The final step in the merger is expected to come in September of next year. Novak says the daily work between the two schools will continue.

Novak says she’s heard from parents and some students that there’s a renewed confidence that the schools have a very positive path forward. She says there is also support in the business community for the merger.