HUNTINGTON, Ind. (WOWO) — During their annual winter meetings last week, the Huntington University Board of Trustees voted to elect Dr. Robert Pepper as the 14th president of HU. Pepper currently serves in the role of executive director and assistant to the president for innovation and university partnerships at Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. Pepper was selected following an extensive national search assisted by executive search firm CarterBaldwin. Chairman of the HU board Monte Lightner stated, “The Huntington University Board of Trustees is pleased to welcome Dr. Rob Pepper as the next president of Huntington University. Dr. Pepper’s scholarship, experience, creativity, and above all, his love of Jesus will continue and enhance the legacy left by past HU presidents. We are excited to participate with Dr. Pepper in the next chapter of Huntington University.” Pepper graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from Messiah College in 1992, followed by a Master of Science degree in counseling: college student development from Shippensburg University in 1994, and he earned a PhD in organizational leadership from Regent University in 2009. “I am humbled to join Huntington University as its 14th president,” said Pepper. “As my wife, Kristin, and I learned about the University’s rich history and heard from board members and community members about the vibrant, Christ-centered communities in both Indiana and Arizona, it became clear to us that Huntington is deeply committed to developing the whole person. The institution’s focus on helping students view all things through a Christian worldview and preparing them to impact the world for Christ is inspiring.” Pepper has served at Messiah University in roles of increasing responsibility since 1993, beginning as a residence hall director overseeing student life initiatives. His early work in student affairs laid the groundwork for his career in higher education, focusing on mentorship and personal development of students. Pepper’s roles grew to encompass broader responsibilities, such as director of graduate enrollment and student services, where he and his team worked to double enrollment from 247 to 593 students. His success in this role led to his appointment as the interim assistant provost, and later as associate provost/dean of the School of Graduate and Professional Studies. Under his leadership, enrollment swelled to 877 students in 2021-2022. Messiah University President Dr. Kim Phipps shared this statement, “Dr. Pepper has had a significant impact on programmatic innovation and the development of community partnerships at Messiah. Huntington University will continue to thrive under his Christ-centered visionary leadership.” The post Dr. Pepper Elected As 14th President Of Huntington University appeared first on WOWO News/Talk 92.3 FM and 1190 AM.