FaithSearch Partners is pleased to announce that its client, Northwest Nazarene University has elected Dr. Mark DeMichael as its 14th president. Dr. DeMichael was introduced to the NNU community during a special Community Chapel service on Monday, March 10.
Dr. DeMichael brings extensive experience in higher education leadership, having served at Indiana Wesleyan University for over 25 years in student development and athletics. Most recently, as Vice President of Student Development & Athletics, he provided strategic oversight for student retention, enrollment and campus life, fostering a thriving academic and faith-centered environment. Before his tenure at IWU, Dr. DeMichael spent several years as a faculty member and head baseball coach at Eastern Nazarene College—his alma mater.
Dr. DeMichael holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of the Cumberlands, an M.Ed. in Physical Education from Azusa Pacific University and a BS in Physical Education from Eastern Nazarene College. Alongside his wife, Kim, he is excited for the opportunity to engage with students and the local community.
The Board of Trustees selected Dr. DeMichael after an extensive national search process facilitated by the executive search firm, FaithSearch Partners. The Presidential Search Committee, made up of trustee, faculty, staff, student, Foundation Board and Alumni Board representation, prioritized candidates who demonstrated strong leadership, a commitment to NNU’s mission and a vision for guiding the University into the future.
Dr. DeMichael expressed excitement about joining NNU and looks forward to getting to know the students, faculty and staff. “I am honored to serve as the fourteenth president of Northwest Nazarene University. NNU’s dedication to academic excellence, Christian faith and transformative education is inspiring, and I look forward to becoming part of this incredible community. I am eager to build relationships and listen and work alongside the NNU faculty and staff to advance the University’s mission.”
“After an extensive and prayerful search process, we are confident that Dr. DeMichael is the right person to lead NNU into the future God desires,” said Board of Trustees Chair, Mike Zahare. “Dr. DeMichael’s experience, leadership and commitment to Christian higher education make him an excellent fit for this role. We look forward to working together to continue the transformative work happening at NNU.”
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Founded in 2007, FaithSearch Partners is the premier executive search firm in the U.S. focusing exclusively on serving faith-based healthcare organizations, educational institutions, nonprofits, ministries, and faith-oriented businesses. Based in Dallas with locations in Houston, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Nashville, Birmingham, Asheville, Durango, Redding, and Rochester, FaithSearch is able to serve faith-based clients in all regions.
