Bethel Names New Vice President for Student Life

William O. Washington, Ph.D., has been named Bethel’s vice president for student life for the College of Arts & Sciences by executive vice president and provost Deb Harless, following recommendations from a search advisory committee that conducted a national search for candidates. Washington, who will start his new position this summer, brings more than 28 years of student affairs and higher education leadership experience to Bethel.

“Washington is a strong advocate for Christian liberal arts education with a commitment to incorporate faith, living, and learning into all facets of the university community,” says Harless. “He demonstrates a faith-based educational model in his work and seeks out the voices and perspectives of others, and he is skilled at working collaboratively across student life, campus ministries, and academic affairs to develop and implement holistic experiences for students.”

Washington has served in several leadership roles at Trinity International University in Deerfield, Illinois, including senior vice president for student life, dean of students, athletic director, associate dean of students, assistant dean of students, assistant football coach, and admissions counselor. He holds a Ph.D. in higher education from Loyola University, an M.A. in religion from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and a B.A. in history from Trinity College.

More than 100 community members, including students, staff in the student life division, and others who interact regularly with the vice president for student life, met with Washington when he visited campus during the final stage of the interview process. “The feedback consistently noted his energy, enthusiasm, and engaging interactions with others,” says Harless.