Dr. DeMichael was elected president by the NĀ鶹Ō­““ Board of Trustees on March 7, 2025, following a nationwide search. He officially began his presidency in July and was introduced to the campus community during a special Community Chapel service and press conference held earlier in the spring.

With more than 25 years of experience in higher education, Dr. DeMichael brings a deep commitment to faith-centered leadership and student transformation. Before coming to NĀ鶹Ō­““, he served as Vice President of Student Development and Athletics at Indiana Wesleyan University, where he oversaw student life, retention and athletic programs. He previously taught and coached baseball 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.

Known for his relational and authentic leadership, Dr. DeMichael has consistently emphasized humility, collaboration and a bold commitment to NĀ鶹Ō­““ā€™s mission of transforming lives through Christ-centered education. He has expressed a strong desire to partner with faculty, staff, students and the broader Church of the Nazarene community across the Northwest Field in shaping NĀ鶹Ō­““ā€™s story.

ā€œGod is moving in special ways at NĀ鶹Ō­““,ā€ said Dr. DeMichael. ā€œMy prayer and priority is that NĀ鶹Ō­““ will continue to be a place where studentā€™s lives are transformed and their walk with the Lord is strengthened, all while receiving an exceptional education.ā€

The inauguration ceremony featured greetings and prayers from University leadership, faculty, staff, students, alumni and representatives of the Church of the Nazarene. The programā€™s theme was evident in the tone of worship, the messages of service and faith and the shared vision for NĀ鶹Ō­““ā€™s future.

ā€œThe Board of Trustees could not be more confident in Dr. DeMichaelā€™s leadership,ā€ said Mike Zahare, Board Chair. ā€œHis character, vision and love for students embody the heart of NĀ鶹Ō­““. We believe God has called him ā€˜for such a time as thisā€™ to guide the University into its next season of growth and mission impact.ā€

Under Dr. DeMichaelā€™s leadership, NĀ鶹Ō­““ aims to strengthen its commitment to Christ-centered education, deepen partnerships with churches and communities and continue expanding opportunities for academic and spiritual growth. His vision reflects a balance of humility and boldness that aligns deeply with NĀ鶹Ō­““ā€™s enduring mission to prepare students to become Godā€™s creative and redemptive agents in the world.

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