OLLU Announces Leadership Transition and Appointment of Interim President
Oct 23, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Board of Trustees select an experienced enterprise leader to navigate a consequential transition, protect its mission, and strengthen its future.
SAN ANTONIO, TX – October 23, 2026 – Following the recent announcement of President Dr. Abel Chávez’s resignation, the Board of Trustees of Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) today announced the appointment of Brent Fields, Ph.D., as interim president, effective October 26, 2026.
Dr. Fields brings more than 30 years of executive leadership experience across nonprofit, healthcare, education, research, and community-based organizations. His background includes leading complex, mission-driven enterprises, strengthening organizational performance, aligning executive teams and boards around strategic priorities, and building partnerships that advance institutional sustainability and community impact.
Most recently, Dr. Fields led Morgan’s Enterprises through a significant expansion addressing the emerging needs and introducing new diverse businesses to the portfolio. The expansion consisted of encompassing seven distinct businesses, an multi-million dollar annual operating budget, a workforce of over 300 employees, and a large property portfolio. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles in healthcare and national research administration, including oversight of a portfolio exceeding $50 million that supported 200 scientists across 25 institutions. He holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy from The University of Texas at Austin.
“The Board’s responsibility is to ensure that OLLU has the leadership, focus, and stability necessary to advance its mission and strengthen its future,” said Steve O’Donnell. “Dr. Fields brings a record of executive leadership, organizational alignment, and strategic execution that we believe will serve the university well during this transition. We are confident in his ability to work collaboratively with our university community as we address immediate challenges and position OLLU for long-term sustainability.”
During the interim period, Dr. Fields will work closely with the Board of Trustees, Cabinet, faculty, staff, students, alumni, donors, the Congregation of Divine Providence (CDPs), and community partners to establish priorities and maintain momentum on the university’s most pressing needs. Initial areas of focus will include institutional stability, enrollment and student success, financial sustainability, leadership alignment, and engagement with the university community.
“With Dr. Brent Fields providing interim leadership, I am confident that Our Lady of the Lake University will remain steadfast in its mission and continue to be guided by the charism of Divine Providence,” said Sister Rose Kruppa, Superior General of the Congregation of Divine Providence. “The Sisters of Divine Providence founded OLLU in faith and with a deep commitment to education, service, and the dignity and potential of every person. That legacy remains at the heart of the university today. This transition is an opportunity to renew our shared commitment to OLLU’s students, strengthen the university for the future, and ensure that its mission continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of those it serves,” she added.
“I am honored by the Board’s confidence and humbled by the opportunity to serve Our Lady of the Lake University,” said Dr. Fields. “OLLU has a distinguished history, a meaningful mission, and an important role in the lives of its students and the broader community. My first priority will be to listen, learn, and work alongside the people who know and care deeply about this university. Together, we will build on OLLU’s strengths, address its challenges with candor and discipline, and strengthen its foundation for the future.”
Additional information regarding the transition and opportunities for university community engagement will be shared in the coming days.