President's Office Archives | ɬ /news/staff-departments/presidents-office/ The official website of ɬ Thu, 19 Feb 2026 20:29:09 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Kara Campbell /staff-members/kara-campbell/ Wed, 23 Aug 2023 17:48:03 +0000 /?post_type=staff&p=43242 The post Kara Campbell appeared first on ɬ.

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My years as a Houghton student were incredibly formative. My years here as a student prepared me well for advanced education and for serving in a broken world in need of God’s love. I’m delighted to be able to contribute to the work of ɬ by serving as the President’s Assistant.

Education

  • M.A. Intercultural Studies and TESOL | Wheaton College
  • B.A. Intercultural Studies | Houghton College

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]]> Natasha Davis /staff-members/natasha-davis/ Mon, 22 Aug 2022 12:41:24 +0000 /?post_type=staff&p=28606 The post Natasha Davis appeared first on ɬ.

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I am honored and blessed to serve God in this capacity at ɬ. The bible reminds us to, “Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.” Psalms 100:2. And in serving the Lord, through his grace and mercy, I look forward to assisting in the growth and development of the university in faith, love and prayer.

Prior to joining ɬ, Natasha Davis served as an Assistant Dean, Co-Program Coordinator and Program Director at Morehead State University. In addition to serving on Morehead’s President’s Leadership Council, she served in various roles within leadership including program development and program enhancement both on campus and within the community. She was also a faculty member at Morehead State University, University of Kentucky, and Shenandoah Conservatory of Shenandoah University.

Professional Experience/Achievements

  • Assistant Dean, Caudill College Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
    Morehead State University – Morehead, KY (2018-2022)
  • Associate Professor of Dance
    Morehead State University – Morehead, KY (2014-2022)
  • Lecturer, Department of Dance
    The University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY (2022)
  • Co-Program Coordinator for Theatre & Dance programs
    Morehead State University-Morehead, KY (2016-2018)
  • Title IX Hearing Board/Faculty Advisor
    Morehead State University-Morehead, KY (2019-2022)
  • Program Director-Dance
    Morehead State University – Morehead, KY (2008-2022)
  • Assistant Professor of Dance
    Morehead State University-Morehead, KY (2008-2014)
  • Adjunct Lecturer-Dance
    Shenandoah Conservatory of Shenandoah University (2007-2008)

Education

  • Ed.D. in Educational Leadership | The University of Kentucky’s College of Education
    • Dissertation-“A Constructive Approach to Managing Faculty Conflict: An Action Research Study”
  • M.F.A. in Dance | Shenandoah Conservatory of Shenandoah University
  • B.A. in Dance | The University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Awards

  • Academic Leadership Academy-Leadership Certification, Bluegrass Higher Education Consortium
  • President’s Leadership Academy-Leadership Certification, Morehead State University
  • Excellence in Leadership Award, KY State Senate

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]]> Greg Bish /staff-members/greg-bish/ Tue, 01 Jun 2021 18:08:01 +0000 /?post_type=staff&p=14557 The post Greg Bish appeared first on ɬ.

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Dr. Bish’s work and research has focused on bringing creative approaches to challenges with a goal of moving toward the common good for others. His work has focused on identifying learning outcomes and goals in areas of global education, community engagement, and student development. Informed by design thinking principles, Dr. Bish has brought a student-centric approach to his various previous roles in the academy and church: director of global and experiential learning, director relief and overseas personnel, and associate dean for student involvement and leadership. Dr. Bish provides leadership for the University’s accreditation efforts as well as serves as the central coordinator for the Executive Leadership Cabinet, as the primary liaison to the Board of Trustees, and provides executive support to the president.

Education

  • Ph.D. in Higher Education | Azusa Pacific University
    Dissertation: Civic Values and Christian Colleges: A Study of Student Involvement Effects
  • M.S.Ed. in College Student Development | Alfred University
  • B.A. in Educational Ministries | Houghton College

I am honored by the opportunity to continue serving ɬ. It is a great honor to work with Houghton’s leadership to ensure Houghton not only maintains the highest standards of excellence, but also boldly pursues innovative ways to equip students to lead and labor as scholar-servants in a changing world. I firmly believe Houghton is, and will continue to be, a leader in Christian higher education.

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]]> Dr. Wayne D. Lewis, Jr. /staff-members/dr-wayne-d-lewis-jr/ Wed, 28 Apr 2021 15:30:36 +0000 /?post_type=staff&p=13733 The post Dr. Wayne D. Lewis, Jr. appeared first on ɬ.

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Wayne D. Lewis, Jr. has served ɬ as its 6th president since June 2021. During his tenure, Houghton’s accomplishments have included continued endowment growth, consolidation and refinancing of institutional debt, transition from Houghton College to ɬ, undergraduate and graduate enrollment growth, expansion of graduate programs, the establishment and growth of Houghton’s Early College, conference championships in tennis and cross country, and the expansion of Highlander athletics.

In addition to his leadership at Houghton, Lewis serves as an ex officio member of the General Board of The Wesleyan Church, a member of the board of trustees for the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities in New York (CICU), on the NCAA Division III membership committee, the boards of directors for the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) and the National Institute for Execellence in Teaching (NIET), and advisory councils for the Harvard Kennedy School’s Program on Education Policy and Governance (PEPG) and the National Center for Research on Education Access and Choice (REACH) at Tulane University.

Prior to his leadership at Houghton, Lewis’ experience included leadership roles in the Christian, non-profit, for-profit, and government sectors. After beginning his career in education as a public-school classroom teacher, he moved into higher education, where he served as a faculty member, program administrator, and college dean. He served the Commonwealth of Kentucky in state government, first as Executive Director of Education Policy & Programs in the Kentucky Education & Workforce Cabinet, and later as Kentucky’s Commissioner of Education, where his leadership priorities were college and workforce readiness, teacher licensure, special education, and early learning. As Commissioner, he served on Kentucky’s Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE), Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB), and Early Childhood Advisory Council (ECAC)

President Lewis and his family love supporting and spending time with Houghton students and their families, and they treasure the opportunity to serve them. They worship and serve at Eastern Hill Church in Williamsville, New York.

Education

  • Ph.D. in Educational Research and Policy Analysis with a Minor in Public Administration | North Carolina State University’s College of Education
  • Post-Baccalaureate Studies in Special Education-Mild/Moderate Disabilities | The University of New Orleans
  • Master’s in Urban Studies with a Minor in Public Administration | The University of Akron’s Buchtel College of Arts & Sciences
  • Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice | Loyola University

Honors and Awards

  • Harry M. Sparks Distinguished Lecturer, Murray State University College of Education, 2019
  • Appreciation for Services Award, Delta Sigma Theta, Louisville Alumnae Chapter, 2019
  • Louisville Business First, People to Know, 2019
  • Leadership Award, State Interagency Council (SIAC), Kentucky, 2018
  • Teachers Who Make A Difference Award, University of Kentucky, 2013
  • Rick Hess Edu-Scholar Public Presence Rankings, #154 (tie), 2013
  • Men Making A Difference Award, African and Africana Studies Program (UKY), 2011
  • Dissertation of the Year Finalist, Politics of Education Association, 2010
  • Barbara L. Jackson Scholar, University Council for Educational Administration, 2007-2009

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]]> Linda Knapp /staff-members/linda-knapp/ Wed, 24 Feb 2021 20:35:49 +0000 http://houghtonedu.flywheelsites.com/?post_type=staff&p=5910 The post Linda Knapp appeared first on ɬ.

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I have chosen to work at ɬ because of the brilliant colleagues and students we have here. The caliber of intelligence, creativity, authenticity and work-ethic is unrivaled elsewhere. I also am a 4th-generation Houghtonite so my love for the Genesee Valley and it’s wooded hills, stony creeks, abundant space, and rich history runs deep. For me, a commitment to Place is one of the pillars of a meaningful life and that Place for my family is Houghton.

Education

B.A. in Intercultural Studies | Houghton College – 2001
M.A. in Cultural Anthropology | Colorado State University – 2010

Courses Taught at Houghton

  • Issues in International Development
  • Cultural Anthropology
  • East African Anthropology
  • Honors Seminar in Medical Anthropology

Publications

  • Knapp, L.M., Eli. J. Knapp, Kristine L. Metzger, Dennis Rentsch, Rene Beyers, Katie Hampson, Jennifer Schmitt, Sarah Cleaveland, and Kathleen Galvin. 2016. Human health in the Greater Serengeti Ecosystem. Chapter 23 in Serengeti IV Sustaining biodiversity in a coupled human-natural system, edited by Anthony R.E. Sinclair, Kristine L. Metzger, John M. Fryxell and Simon A.R. Mduma, The University of Chicago Press, Chicago, Illinois.
  • Knapp, E.J., Dennis Rentsch, Jennifer Schmitt, and Linda M. Knapp. 2014. The plight of the people: Understanding the social-ecological context of people living on the western edge of Serengeti National Park” Chapter 16 in Serengeti IV Sustaining biodiversity in a coupled human-natural system, edited by Anthony R.E. Sinclair, Kristine L. Metzger, John M. Fryxell and Simon A.R. Mduma, The University of Chicago Press, Chicago, Illinois.
  • Knapp, L.M. 2010. Human health in western Serengeti: Using three methodologies to better understand the interactions and impacts of conservation, culture, and poverty. M.A., thesis, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO.
  • Galvin, K.A., P.K. Thornton, R.B. Boone, and L.M. Knapp. 2008. Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania: Fragmentation of a unique region of the Greater Serengeti Ecosystem. Chapter 11 in Fragmentation in Semi-Arid and Arid Landscapes: Consequences for Human and Natural Systems, edited by K.A. Galvin, R.S. Reid, R.H. Behnke, and N.T. Hobbs. Kluwer Academic, Dordrecht, Netherlands.
  • Galvin, K.A., P.K. Thornton, R.B. Boone, and L.M. Knapp. 2008. Northwest Province, South Africa: Communal and Commercial Livestock Systems in Transition. Chapter 12 in Fragmentation in Semi-Arid and Arid Landscapes: Consequences for Human and Natural Systems, edited by K.A. Galvin, R.S. Reid, R.H. Behnke, and N.T. Hobbs. Kluwer Academic, Dordrecht, Netherlands.

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]]> Jill Jordan /staff-members/jill-jordan/ Wed, 24 Feb 2021 20:27:03 +0000 http://houghtonedu.flywheelsites.com/?post_type=staff&p=5902 The post Jill Jordan appeared first on ɬ.

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I am privileged to have served at ɬ in a variety of roles since joining the faculty in 2009. My husband, Michael, and I live in Houghton with our five children and enjoy being a part of this close-knit community. It is our honor to play a role in equipping Houghton students to live out God’s calling on their lives.

Education

  • Ph.D. | Bryn Mawr College
  • M.A. | Bryn Mawr College
  • B.A. | Houghton College

Professional Experiences/Achievements

  • Assistant Professor of Mathematics
    ɬ, Houghton NY (2009-present)
  • 2015 TIMES [Teaching Inquiry-Oriented Materials: Establishing Supports] Teaching Fellow (Abstract Algebra)
  • Westfield Academy and Central School commencement speaker, “All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Math Class,” June 2013
  • MAA PREP Workshop: Improving College Mathematics Teaching Through Faculty Development, West Point, NY, June 2012
  • MAA Minicourse: Getting Students Involved in ɬ Research, Joint Mathematics Meetings, New Orleans, LA, January 2011
  • Visiting or Adjunct Professor of Mathematics
    Bryn Mawr College, Bryn Mawr PA (2006-2007)
    Gwynedd Mercy College, Gwynedd Valley PA (2002-2004)

Courses Taught

  • Senior Capstone
  • Abstract Algebra I
  • Modern Geometries
  • Number Theory
  • Knot Theory
  • Introduction to Proof
  • Multivariate Calculus
  • Calculus I / Calculus Support Lab
  • Science Honors Calculus
  • Introduction to Calculus
  • Math Explorations
  • Math for Liberal Arts

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]]> Matthew Webb /staff-members/matthew-webb/ Mon, 22 Feb 2021 20:26:23 +0000 http://houghtonedu.flywheelsites.com/?post_type=staff&p=5673 The post Matthew Webb appeared first on ɬ.

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was named Director of Athletics in the summer of 2018 after previously serving as associate director of athletics and men’s soccer coach. Webb provides strategic leadership for the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, which sponsors 17 sports and competes as a member of the Empire 8 Conference in NCAA Division III.
Webb served the department as a coach and administrator since 1993. He initially was an assistant with the women’s soccer program (1993-96) before transitioning to an assistant role with the men’s program in 1997. He was hired as the men’s soccer head coach in 2004.

During his 15 years as head coach, he led the Highlanders to a record of 129-121-33 and 11 postseason appearances. His 2016 team finished 11-7-4 and was the first Houghton program to advance to an Empire 8 Championship game. That team also played in the NCCAA National Tournament, and Webb was named NCCAA Midwest Region Coach of the Year. In the spring of 2018, Webb served as interim coach of the men’s and women’s tennis program, leading the men to the E8 championship match and earning E8 Men’s Tennis Coach of the Year honors following the season.

Education

  • Ph.D. | Regent University
  • M.S. | Alfred University
  • B.A. | Bethel University

Courses Taught

  • Leadership Development
  • Principles and Practices of Coaching
  • Global Leadership
  • Event and Facility Management

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]]> Bill Burrichter /staff-members/bill-burrichter/ Mon, 22 Feb 2021 20:19:19 +0000 http://houghtonedu.flywheelsites.com/?post_type=staff&p=5655 The post Bill Burrichter appeared first on ɬ.

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Since graduating from Houghton in 1992 Bill has consistently demonstrated a commitment to serving the mental health needs of students within the education system in both K12 and collegiate settings. Bill returned to Houghton in 2015 to serve as the Director of Counseling Services and Associate Professor of Psychology. What drew him back to Houghton was the strong commitment to the integration of our Christian faith with the liberal arts and sciences. In 2023 he was asked to step into the executive leadership role within Student Life. Understanding the transformational impact that Houghton has on the lives of students Bill is committed to ensuring that all aspects of Student Life are focused on Sharpening, Supporting and Celebrating students, deeply rooted in our relationship with Jesus Christ.

Bill and his wife live on a farm just outside of Houghton and are proud parents of three Houghton alum.

Education

  • Ph.D., Walden University (2006)
  • M.S., Villanova University (1997)
  • B.A., Houghton College (1992)
  • Primary Training Certificate in Rational Emotive Behavior Training and Techniques, Albert Ellis Institute (1999)

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]]> Dale Wright /staff-members/dale-wright/ Mon, 25 Jan 2021 20:08:12 +0000 http://houghtonedu.flywheelsites.com/?post_type=staff&p=388 The post Dale Wright appeared first on ɬ.

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Dale joined ɬ in 1995 after working in both the for-profit and not for profit arenas in Virgnia, Maryland and Pennsylvania. Over the 30 years at Houghton he has served in a number of positions in both the Human Resources and Finance areas, being promoted to the position of Vice President for Finance and Chief Fiscal Officer in 2018.

Dale and his wife Meg live in Houghton. They are the parents of four children — two of which are Houghton alums.

Education

BA Management | University of Maryland
MA Financial Management | University of Maryland

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]]> Jason Towers /staff-members/jason-towers/ Mon, 25 Jan 2021 20:06:37 +0000 http://houghtonedu.flywheelsites.com/?post_type=staff&p=385 The post Jason Towers appeared first on ɬ.

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Jason comes to Houghton with over 20 years of experience in higher education enrollment management, admission, marketing, and financial aid from several sectors of higher education.  In his roles, he has worked with a variety of student populations including those seeking residential, online, graduate, and competency-based education options. Jason is eager to bring to the service of Christian higher education in general, and his alma mater in particular, the gifts of his experience, honed throughout his journey since graduating from Houghton in 1997.

A native of Hadley, NY (located in Saratoga County and nestled in the southern portion of the Adirondack Park), Jason and his wife, Cristy, live just a stone’s throw away from the campus in Fillmore with their three boys.

Education

  • Master of Business Administration | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
  • B.A. | Houghton College

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]]> Karl Sisson /staff-members/karl-sisson/ Mon, 25 Jan 2021 19:58:48 +0000 http://houghtonedu.flywheelsites.com/?post_type=staff&p=378 The post Karl Sisson appeared first on ɬ.

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Karl Sisson has served as the Vice President for Advancement and External Engagement, leads a talented and dedicated team whose primary goal is to inspire and actively engage alumni and friends in the mission and future of ɬ.

A seasoned development and marketing professional with nearly 30 years of advancement-related experience and father of two current Houghton students, Mr. Sisson is passionate about the transformative Houghton experience and the lasting value of a high-quality, Christ-centered liberal arts education. He has served at ɬ since 2014.

Education

  • B.S. in Business Administration | Roberts Wesleyan College

In May 2025, ɬ announced a $10.4M lead gift secured by Mr. Sisson to renovate its oldest existing residence hall, Gillette/East Hall. The $11.6M 15-month construction project is completely donor funded. This gift is the first step in a multi-year effort to renew residence halls across campus.

Under the leadership of Mr. Sisson, and in response to the exceptional efforts and commitment of his Advancement team, the ɬ endowment has grown from $35M to more than $91M. Houghton’s endowment is comprised of 350+ endowed scholarship funds, programmatic funds, chairs/professorships, athletics, undesignated general endowment, and more.

Mr. Sisson provided effective vision and leadership to Houghton’s largest campaign to date – IMPACT: The Campaign for Greater Houghton – which was completed in May 2020. This comprehensive campaign successfully surpassed its $70M goal while enabling donors to invest in three key strategic areas: Access and Affordability; Strategic Campus Enhancement (which included construction of the Equestrian Event Center and renovation of the Paine Center for Science); and Academic and Experiential Investment.

A native of Gerry, NY (in nearby Chautauqua County), Karl and his wife, Laura, live in Houghton with their four children (Carter, Zach, Isaiah and Lily) where they are actively involved on campus and in the community they love.

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