Independent Colleges Names New CEO

Independent Colleges of Indiana has a new president and chief executive officer. David Wantz will take over the position after most recently serving as interim executive vice president and provost at the University of Indianapolis.

Wantz succeeds Richard Ludwick, who announced in December he was stepping down to become president of the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas. Ludwick will begin his new role in July.

Wantz has served in a variety of roles at UIndy for more than 30 years, including special assistant to the president for community and government relations, director of corporate and foundation giving and dean of students. He has also served as interim director of public safety for former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard and current Mayor Joe Hogsett.

"David has the experience, temperament, relationships, and knowledge to lead ICI," said Bill Katip, chair of the ICI Board and president of Grace College.  "We believe he has the ability to address the challenges facing independent higher education today."

Wantz also serves as the chair of the Indianapolis Public Library Board of Trustees and is a member of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Merit Board.