Marian Miracle Man: Dan Elsener

When Dan Elsener became president of Marian College more than 25 years ago, the institution was facing financial crisis, declining enrollment and an uncertain future. Today, Marian University is a dramatically different place—a growing, nationally recognized university with a medical school, an engineering school, a championship-caliber athletic program and a much bigger footprint in Indiana higher education and beyond. As Elsener prepares to transition from the president’s office, he sits down with Gerry Dick to reflect on a remarkable turnaround that included the decision to launch a football program, restore confidence and attract new donors. How do you take a college on the brink of financial collapse and turn it into a growing force in higher education? Elsener shares the leadership lessons behind Marian’s remarkable transformation—and his vision for its future.