Dr. Rachelle Keck

An Iowa native, Dr. Keck is proud to be a first-generation college student, graduating from Wartburg College with a bachelor of arts degree in psychology, after which she earned her juris doctorate from the University of Iowa and her doctor of philosophy degree in education from Drake University. Dr. Keck began her career as a prosecutor before establishing her own law firm. She also served on the Wartburg College Board of Regents where she developed a passion for higher education that led her to philanthropy roles at the University of Iowa Foundation as their Director of Planned Giving, and then to Indian Hills Community College as their Executive Director for Philanthropy and Alumni Relations before joining Briar Cliff in 2017. At Briar Cliff, Dr. Keck has led the expansion of academic programs and developed a comprehensive campus master plan. She also led several key fundraising initiatives centered around academics, athletics and campus beautification. In addition, the use of technology both in and out of the classroom has expanded, the endowment has grown, enrollment has increased and grant dollars applied for and awarded have increased during her tenure. Dr. Keck also brings extensive strategic budgeting and organizational leadership experience to Grand View.

A committed volunteer, she is also the President of Leadership Siouxland and is on the boards of UnityPoint Health – St. Luke’s Regional Medical Center, Girls Inc. of Sioux City and Iowa Sister States. In addition, she is an executive board member for the Iowa Association of Independent Colleges and Universities and a member of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities Tax Policy Committee.

“Having been born, raised and educated in our great state, I am thrilled to be named President of Grand View University and honored to serve as its first female leader. Grand View University shines as a visionary leader in the field, dedicated to the holistic education of graduates prepared to lead and serve in our diverse and changing world,” said Dr. Keck. “Our entrepreneurial mindset, our critical location in the largest and fastest-growing city in the state, our connection to business and government, as well as the notable acumen and dedication of our faculty, staff, alumni and Board have and will continue to be vital elements of Grand View University’s ongoing success.”