Kingswood University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Rick Christman as its President-elect. Dr. Christman brings a wealth of experience in Christian higher education, having served over 20 years as a professor and administrator, and more than 22 years in The Wesleyan Church as an ordained minister and educator.
Reflecting on this leadership transition, Dr. Stephen Lennox, current President of Kingswood University, shared:
“I’m delighted that the Board of Trustees has unanimously chosen Dr. Rick Christman to be the next president of Kingswood University. They have selected a proven leader with a wealth of knowledge and experience in Christian higher education, both traditional and non-traditional. Best of all, Dr. Christman brings a deep love for God and the church. He’s an excellent choice to lead Kingswood into its best days yet.”
Dr. Christman holds a Bachelor of Religious Education from God’s Bible School and College, two master’s degrees from Indiana Wesleyan University—an M.A. in Advanced Leadership Studies and an M.A. in Ministry—and a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) in Organizational Leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University.
Prior to his appointment at Kingswood University, Dr. Christman served as the Executive Vice President at Columbia International University (CIU) in Columbia, South Carolina. He provided leadership to CIU Global, Kepha Program, Traditional and Online Admissions/Enrollment, Student Services, CIU Athletics, IT Services, and Campus Security.
Dr. Christman is known for his passionate, yet challenging leadership, caring deeply for both the institutions he serves and the people who serve alongside him. He understands the critical need for Christian higher education and is committed to preserving and instilling Christian values and ideals into students from all walks and at different stages of life.
Dr. Christman shared his excitement for this new role, stating:
“Cheri and I are delighted to join the Kingswood University family! What an honor to rejoin The Wesleyan Church in ministry and educational leadership, as this is very much our heritage and where we spent many years of pastoral and educational ministry. Thank you to the Board of Trustees for your vote of confidence and this exciting opportunity to lead. We are looking forward to joining the KU team this coming summer!”
Dr. Christman and his wife, Cheri, have been married for 40 years and have three grown children and eight grandchildren.
The Kingswood University community looks forward to welcoming Dr. Christman and is excited about the future under his leadership, beginning July 1, 2025.