La Sierra University Appoints Dr. Christon Arthur as Next President
14 May 2024 |
Southern California’s La Sierra University has announced Dr. Christon Arthur as its new president, making him the first Black president in the university’s nearly 102-year history. The university’s Board of Trustees made the decision unanimously on May 9, selecting Dr. Arthur to begin his tenure on July 1. He will succeed Dr. Richard Osborn, who served as interim president following Dr. Joy Fehr’s resignation last year.
The announcement came during a surprise Zoom call where Dr. Arthur expressed his enthusiasm and vision for the future of La Sierra University. “It is the joy and honor of my life to accept this invitation,” he remarked, emphasizing his commitment to spiritual guidance and innovative leadership to propel the university forward.
Dr. Arthur joins La Sierra from Andrews University in Michigan, where he has served as provost since 2016. During his time at Andrews, Dr. Arthur managed a substantial academic budget of approximately $70 million and was responsible for a student body of around 10,000. His tenure at Andrews was marked by numerous successful initiatives, including the establishment of the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and a revitalized Career Center.
Dr. Arthur’s academic credentials are extensive, holding multiple graduate degrees, including an Ed.S. and a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction and educational administration from Andrews University. He has also completed post-graduate studies at Harvard University and is currently an MBA candidate at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.
Dr. Bradford C. Newton, chair of the university board, praised Dr. Arthur’s extensive background in educational leadership and his alignment with La Sierra’s strategic goals. “His remarkable breadth of experiences and insights are a perfect fit for La Sierra. We look forward to working with him as the university continues to chart an upward path,” Newton said.
