Meet Christy L. Brown, J.D.
Alverno's ninth president

Alverno’s history as a women’s college is one of the many reasons that Christy L. Brown was attracted to the presidency.

“We know this environment provides benefits for young people and for women, because they won’t have that environment when they go out into the real world,” she says.

Alverno College’s Board of Trustees unanimously selected the Milwaukee native and local executive to succeed Sister Andrea Lee, IHM, Ph.D. who ended her service in June 2022. Brown served previously as Chief Executive Officer for Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast (GSWISE) since 2012. She began her tenure at Alverno in July of 2023.

Other strengths that Brown sees at Alverno are the 8 Abilities, the diversity of the student body, the Franciscan values that center on social justice and equity, and the dedication of faculty and staff.

“I was completely blown away by how much they care about Alverno, the students and their learning,” she says. “I think some of the awards and recognition that Alverno has received over the years are a testament to that level of dedication and caring.”

Together, these are the reasons that inspire students to choose Alverno – and Brown wants the world to take note.

“I feel like on some level, Alverno is still a very well-kept secret and we need for people not only in our community but outside of our community to understand what a jewel it is,” she says. “I’ve always admired Alverno from afar, and during this process, I learned so much more about it and how much people love it. And now I love it, too.”

Building on Alverno’s strengths, she will drive academic excellence and innovation, continue to attract courageous and forward-thinking students who look to develop themselves and contribute to their communities, and expand Alverno’s national and international reputation.

Read more about President Brown's background and experience as published in Alverno Magazine.