Immaculata University President Barbara Lettiere Announces Plans to Retire in 2027

Immaculata University President Barbara Lettiere has announced that she will retire effective July 1, 2027, following a decade of leadership and service to the University.

Lettiere notified the Chair of Immaculata’s Board of Trustees of her decision on July 1, 2026, providing the Board with a full year to conduct a national search for the University’s next president and ensure a smooth leadership transition.

“The time has come in my life and the life of Immaculata for the next chapter,” Lettiere said. “I did not make this decision easily, and it comes with some very mixed emotions.”

At the conclusion of her tenure, Lettiere will have served as president for 10 years. Since becoming president, she has focused on strengthening the long-term viability of Immaculata University while advancing its mission, academic excellence and service to students.

“My agenda from day one has been focused on the long-term viability of Immaculata University,” Lettiere said. “Needless to say, it has been an incredible journey.”

During her presidency, Immaculata achieved Middle States reaffirmation of accreditation and undertook a thoughtful revitalization of its academic programs to better prepare students for future careers. Her leadership has also helped provide stability and vision during a period of important progress for the University.

The Board of Trustees of Immaculata University, together with the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, expressed deep gratitude for Lettiere’s leadership and dedicated service. At the Board’s request, Lettiere previously extended her presidency by an additional five years.

“The Board accepts her decision with deep gratitude for her outstanding leadership and dedicated service over the past ten years,” said Peggy Behm, Chair of the Board of Trustees, and Sr. Mary Ellen Tennity, IHM General Superior. “Her deep dedication to Immaculata, its students, faculty and staff, and her love for the mission of the IHM Congregation have left a lasting and meaningful impact on the University community.”

Lettiere also reflected on the many people who have contributed to Immaculata’s progress throughout her presidency, including faculty, staff, alumni, students, the Board of Trustees and the IHM Congregation.

“I think it is fair to say that together we all have changed the trajectory of the school by making a positive difference,” Lettiere said.

Lettiere remains committed to continuing the University’s work and supporting the transition to new leadership.

“Over the next year, there is much work to be done, and I intend to see it all through,” Lettiere said.

The Board of Trustees will begin a national search to identify Immaculata University’s next president.

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Official Statement from the Immaculata University Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees of Immaculata University, together with the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, announces that Barbara Lettiere will retire as President effective July 1, 2027.

The Board accepts her decision with deep gratitude for her outstanding leadership and dedicated service over the past ten years. At the Board’s request, Lettiere extended her presidency by an additional five years, providing stability and vision during a period of important progress for the University.

During her tenure, Immaculata achieved Middle States reaffirmation of accreditation and undertook a thoughtful revitalization of its academic programs to better prepare students for future careers. Her leadership has strengthened the University’s commitment to academic excellence and its mission.

Lettiere’s deep dedication to Immaculata, its students, faculty, and staff, and her love for the mission of the IHM Congregation have left a lasting and meaningful impact on the University community.

The Board of Trustees is grateful for her many contributions and will begin a national search to identify Immaculata’s next president while ensuring a smooth leadership transition.

Peggy Behm, Chair, Board of Trustees

Sr. Mary Ellen Tennity, IHM General Superior