We are pleased to welcome Dr. Rick Christman to his new role as the 13th president of Kingswood University, following a unanimous vote by the Board of Trustees. He assumed the role of President on July 1, with his official inauguration scheduled for October 17, 2025.
Dr. Christman brings over three decades of experience in Christian higher education, pastoral ministry, and student development. Before joining Kingswood, he served as Executive Vice President at Columbia International University. In that role, he provided leadership across multiple areas, including student services, strategic planning, fundraising, and university-wide development. He also served as Interim President, guiding the university through a time of notable growth in both enrolment and finances.
He has held leadership positions at several institutions, including Trevecca Nazarene University, Ohio Christian University, and Indiana Wesleyan University. Alongside his administrative work, he has taught at both undergraduate and graduate levels, chaired doctoral dissertations, and spoken widely on topics such as leadership, organizational health, and the principles of servant leadership.
Originally from southeastern Ohio, Dr. Christman’s early years on his family’s beef cattle farm helped shape his strong work ethic and grounded approach to leadership. While attending God’s Bible School and College, he felt his call to ministry – an experience that continues to inform his life and work.
He holds an EdD in Organizational Leadership, two master’s degrees in ministry and leadership, and a Bachelor of Religious Education in Bible and Ministerial Studies. Known for his commitment to lifelong learning and his heart for service, Dr. Christman brings a relational, Christ-centred approach to every leadership role he takes.
He and Cheri Lynn, his wife, met during their college years and have been married for over 40 years. Together, they have three grown children, several grandchildren, and a shared passion for ministry.
To inquire about Dr. Christman speaking at your church, camp, or conference, please contact him at 506.432.4411 or email president@kingswood.edu.
Education
- 2012 – EdD (Organizational Leadership), Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion, IN
Dissertation title: Examining the Relationship That Spiritual Well-Being and Gender Have with the Leadership Practices of College Student Leaders - 2009 – M.A. (Advanced Leadership Studies), Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion, IN
- 2004 – M.A. (Ministry), Indiana Wesleyan University, Marion, IN
- 1990 – B.R.E., God’s Bible School & College, Cincinnati, OH