Walla Walla University President, John McVay, Announces Retirement
31 January 2024 |
John McVay, president of Walla Walla University (WWU), has announced his retirement effective at the end of the academic year, according to a news report from the NAD News website. His retirement culminates a 44-year career in service to the Seventh-day Adventist Church, including 18 years at WWU. His tenure as the university’s 23rd president since 2006 has been marked by significant achievements and contributions.
McVay oversaw the transition of Walla Walla College to Walla Walla University, leading strategic planning and financial improvements, which included raising the university’s Composite Financial Index rating. His presidency was characterized by a strong commitment to faith and discovery, exemplified by the establishment of a spiritual master planning process and the inclusion of religious leaders in the president’s cabinet.
He supported various academic and campus improvements, such as curriculum enhancements, the establishment of the university’s first doctoral program (Doctor of Social Work), and the founding of several academic centers focused on diversity, health, education equity, media ministry, and race and culture studies. McVay also prioritized community engagement through the Center for Humanitarian Engagement.
Under his leadership, WWU experienced expansion in programs and services, including a significant increase in freshman-to-sophomore retention rates, the introduction of new worship opportunities, expansion of the athletics program, and the development of new campus facilities such as The Atlas and Positive Life Radio network.
McVay’s tenure saw extensive campus renovations, including modernization of educational and athletic facilities, expansion of the School of Nursing, and improvements to the Rosario Beach Marine Laboratory. His professional involvement extended to various committees within the Seventh-day Adventist Church and higher education organizations. He has been a strong advocate for Christian education and has contributed to scholarly publications, including writing on the later Pauline epistles and the Seventh-day Adventist International Bible Commentary on Ephesians.
In 2012, McVay briefly stepped down to teach, only to resume his presidency in 2013, marking him as one of only two WWU presidents to serve two terms. He is the longest-serving president in the university’s history.
John McVay and his wife, Pam, have been active and welcoming figures in the WWU community, participating in numerous public events. As he approaches retirement, McVay looks forward to focusing on family, service, travel, and scholarly projects.
The WWU board of trustees, led by Chairman John Freedman, will soon form a search committee to select McVay’s successor, aiming to continue the legacy and values established during McVay’s presidency.
