Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI) President and CEO David Wantz announced his plan to retire in June 2022. ICI is a non-profit membership association of Indiana’s regionally-accredited, degree-granting, not-for-profit private colleges and universities. Wantz came to ICI in 2017 after more than three decades at the University of Indianapolis.
“Indiana’s private colleges have been fortunate to have David’s leadership,” said Dave McFadden, ICI board chair and president of Manchester University. “He has been a strong advocate for all ICI institutions both at the State House and in Washington, D.C. When we needed it most, during the COVID-19 pandemic, he brought our campuses together to solve problems together.”
In his role as ICI president and CEO, he represents Indiana’s 29 private, non-profit colleges and universities serving more than 100,000 students. Wantz’s tenure is marked by innovation and steady leadership during an international pandemic. Notable achievements include:
- Partnering with the U.S. Census Bureau on a new initiative that provides the most comprehensive private college alumni salary and employment data to date.
- Releasing an economic impact study showing nearly $5.4 billion impact to Indiana economy;
- Creating a leadership academy for both academic and professional staff members at ICI institutions;
- Launching one of the largest 403(b) Multiple Employer Plan (MEP) among private colleges in the United States; and
- Bringing ICI institutions together to work through unprecedented times during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Wantz is a two-time recipient of the Sagamore of the Wabash—the highest honor given by the governor of Indiana. He also serves as a commissioner of the Midwest Higher Education Company appointed by Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb.
Wantz is an active member of the community, having served on many non-profit and civic organizations, including public safety groups, Ascend Indiana, Indianapolis Marion County Public Library, and Indiana Law Enforcement Training Board.
The ICI Board of Directors has begun the search for his successor. Click here for additional information.