HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Huntington University has selected Dr. Aaron Wilkinson as its new chair of the Department of Business and Economics, directing the department at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Wilkinson brings a distinctive blend of academic leadership, administrative experience and student-centered teaching to the role.
Wilkinson steps into a thriving program, with the Department of Business and Economics being one of the University’s most highly enrolled programs, including a record number of new students enrolling in the department’s majors in the fall of 2025.
The department includes undergraduate programs in accounting, economics and finance, entrepreneurship, management, marketing and sport management and a Master of Business Administration graduate program.
“Dr. Wilkinson brings a proven leadership track record in Christian higher education,” said Dr. Luke Fetters, vice president for academic affairs and dean of the faculty. “He brings a commitment to continue and enhance Huntington University’s strong reputation for equipping the next generation of business leaders for our region.”
Wilkinson holds a PhD in organizational leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University, as well as a Master of Arts degree in intercultural studies from Asbury Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Arts degree in religious studies from Gardner-Webb University.
Wilkinson’s teaching portfolio includes courses in ethics, leading change, organizational behavior, communication, power and conflict management and leadership in complex environments. He has also written curriculum for multiple university courses and served on doctoral and ministry project committees, reflecting his commitment to faculty collaboration and student development. A published scholar, Wilkinson has contributed work on resilience, servant leadership and business ethics, and he has presented at conferences on leadership, employee resilience, organizational change and innovative teaching practices.
Wilkinson most recently served as graduate business programs director and assistant professor of organizational leadership at the University of Saint Francis, where he taught graduate and undergraduate courses, managed adjunct faculty, advised students and oversaw graduate business curriculum. Prior to that, he served for more than five years as vice president of operations and enrollment at Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan, where he led recruitment, marketing, enrollment, retention, student services and partnership development.
In addition to his academic and administrative work, he is an ordained minister in The Wesleyan Church and brings a values-driven approach to leadership, mentoring and higher education.
Wilkinson joins Cindy DiGenova, Troy Irick, Dr. David Lewis, Dr. Ann McPherren and Dr. Brock Zehr on the department’s faculty.
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Huntington University’s Department of Nursing has received a full 10-year reaccreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
Huntington stands as a leading nursing program in Indiana, with the reaccreditation coming on the heels of data showing HU’s excellence in progressing nursing students through the program.
“Receiving another full 10-year accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education is a significant affirmation of the quality and integrity of Huntington University’s nursing programs,” said Jodi Eckert, director of nursing. “This recognition reflects the commitment of our faculty, staff, students, clinical partners and University leadership to excellence in nursing education and to preparing graduates who are ready to lead and serve in an increasingly complex healthcare environment.”
“The accreditation process is thorough and rigorous, and our program achieved every standard without exception,” said Dr. Luke Fetters, vice president of academic affairs and dean of the faculty. “Regional health care employers consistently affirm that Huntington University nursing graduates are well-prepared to hit the ground running as they begin their nursing career.”
The reaccreditation also further strengthens the ongoing partnership between HU’s program and Parkview Health, where students complete clinical work for the program.
“Parkview is proud to partner with Huntington University in preparing the next generation of compassionate, highly skilled nurses,” said Juli Johnson, chief nursing and healthcare markets executive of Parkview Health. “This reaccreditation reflects the strength of the University’s program and its commitment to student success. Since the program’s inception, we’ve built a strong partnership, with Huntington University serving as an important pipeline of practice-ready nurses — many of whom complete most of their clinical rotations with us. We are grateful for the University’s leadership and look forward to continuing our work together to expand access to high-quality nursing education and strengthen the pipeline of future caregivers.”
Another key achievement for the program is the strength of data received regarding National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rates.
Huntington boasts both high first-time pass rates and matriculation rates, an unusually strong combination among Indiana programs. This indicates most students are progressing through the program successfully, reach NCLEX eligibility and pass the NCLEX on the first attempt.
The consistently strong matriculation and graduation percentages highlight the program’s dedication to student success, with an emphasis on supporting students through the academic process to achieve their goals.
“We are incredibly proud of the outcomes our students and faculty continue to achieve across both the traditional BSN and accelerated BSN programs,” Eckert said. “While first-time NCLEX pass rates are an important measure of success, our data also demonstrate exceptionally strong student progression and graduation rates, reflecting the strength of our programs across the entire educational experience. These outcomes speak not only to academic excellence, but to the dedication, support and community that define nursing education at Huntington University.”
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — The undergraduate elementary teacher preparation program at Huntington University has earned an A+ from the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) for how well they prepare future teachers to teach reading to elementary students.
• Bachelor of Science in Elementary & Special Education (P-12) (Dual Licensure): A+
The report, Teacher Prep Review: Decoding Progress in Reading Preparation, published on June 9, spotlights Huntington University for meeting the standards set by literacy experts for coverage of the most effective methods of reading instruction. Specifically, this means the program is preparing aspiring teachers in all five components of scientifically based reading instruction, including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, comprehension and vocabulary, and avoids many instructional practices that research has shown to be ineffective or counterproductive for teaching children to read.
A child’s ability to read proficiently in the early grades shapes everything that comes next in school and in life, yet according to NAEP data, one in three fourth graders in Indiana cannot read at a basic level. Teacher preparation is one of the most direct levers available to change that — but only if it is aligned to the research-based instructional methods that have been proven to help most students become successful readers.
Huntington University is part of a growing group of teacher preparation programs nationwide helping transform how future teachers are trained to teach reading.
“When we send out new teachers, it’s personal,” said Dr. Tyanne Bailey, director of undergraduate teacher education. “We want them ready to teach our own kids. We never set out to chase a grade; we just keep asking whether we are sending teachers out genuinely ready for the hardest, most important thing in an elementary classroom. Doing what’s best for kids always comes first, and that’s exactly why this work matters. Our graduates are prepared, and we could not be more proud.”
“Every child deserves a teacher who has been well prepared to teach reading, and every teacher deserves the opportunity to enter the classroom ready to help students succeed,” said NCTQ President Heather Peske. “Across the country, many teacher preparation programs still do not fully align with the science of reading, but Huntington University is demonstrating what strong preparation can look like.”
NCTQ’s methodology is informed by a panel of reading experts, teacher preparation faculty, reading advocates and measurement experts. To evaluate the quality of preparation being provided, a team of experts at NCTQ analyzed syllabi, including lecture schedules and topics, background reading materials, class assessments, assignments and opportunities to practice instruction in required literacy courses for elementary teacher candidates at Huntington University.
To earn an A, programs needed to demonstrate that coursework for future elementary teachers includes all five core components of scientifically based reading instruction and avoid teaching more than three instructional methods that are unsupported by the research on effective reading instruction. To earn an A+, programs needed to exceed those targets and not teach any instructional practices that are unsupported by research.
“Huntington University’s teacher education program meets and surpasses all Science of Reading standards related to literacy education, which has been a high priority of the Indiana Department of Education,” said Dr. Luke Fetters, vice president for academic affairs and dean of the faculty. “Our education program faculty work carefully to align every course with best practices in literacy, and we’re grateful that their work has been recognized by the NCTQ.”
See NCTQ’s report, Teacher Prep Review: Decoding Progress in Reading Preparation, for more information about Huntington University’s coverage of the science of reading and to see how Huntington University compares to other programs in Indiana or across the country.
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Huntington University and Forester Film are proud to celebrate Dr. Lance Clark, dean of the School of the Arts and founder of Forester Film, for being recognized as the Brand Champion category winner during the Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership Pioneer of the Year Awards ceremony in May.
Clark (1989) was honored alongside fellow Huntington University alumni Edwin Chow (2017) and Jarod Hevel (2013, 2018) and trustee Tomi Cardin for helping elevate and promote Northeast Indiana through leadership, innovation and community impact. Chow was named as the winner of the Entrepreneur category for his work with Summit City Climbing Co. and Cardin was named as the winner of the Social Impact category for her work with Redemption House. Chow was also recognized as the 2026 Pioneer of the Year.
Through Huntington University’s award-winning digital media arts program and Forester Film’s “living classroom” approach, Clark has helped position Northeast Indiana as an emerging hub for film production, storytelling and creative collaboration. His work has connected students with professional-level feature film experiences while shining a national spotlight on the region’s talent and opportunities.
“It’s an honor to represent Huntington University, Forester Film and the incredible students and creative professionals who continue to believe in the power of storytelling in Northeast Indiana,” Clark said. “This recognition belongs to everyone who has helped build a culture of creativity and collaboration in our region.”
The Pioneer of the Year event, hosted by Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership, celebrates leaders and organizations making a transformational impact across Northeast Indiana.
Huntington University Arizona is proud to continue its growing partnership with the Seattle Mariners, marking the fourth consecutive year digital media arts students have been hired to assist with the organization’s annual preseason media shoots held in Peoria prior to the start of spring training.
Each year, before spring training officially begins, the Mariners’ media team produces a wide range of season content, including promotional materials, player features and digital assets used throughout the MLB season. As part of this collaboration, HU Arizona students work directly alongside professional crews, contributing to the technical and creative execution of the shoot.
“This partnership with HU Arizona and the Seattle Mariners is such an incredible opportunity,” said HU Arizona student Sage Kossack. “Being a part of it just grows you in so many ways. You get to see firsthand professional workflow and communication, and a distinct respect for the whole crew. There is so much to observe, as well as learn in practice.”
Kossack shared that students are encouraged to step into areas aligned with their interests.
“I became part of the G&E department, running the lighting console while the shoot was active,” Kossack said. “It was an excellent opportunity to network with skilled professionals both locally and nationwide.”
HU Arizona student Jeremy Mendez added, “It is a great experience getting to see up close and personal what professional people do, and I am so grateful to be able to do this when they come into town.”
HU Arizona student Jonathan Lai reflected on his role operating the LED wall during production.
“The Mariners experience was wonderful,” Lai said. “I learned a lot during this experience. I never thought I would have been able to do these kinds of things any time soon, but I’m glad to experience it. Amazing people and amazing crew.”
For HU Arizona student Lorenzo Ibarra, the week on set was both formative and affirming.
“Working on set this week with the Mariners has been such a blessing,” Ibarra said. “This experience is so valuable as we get to help build professional sets, connect with people already working in the industry and gain hands-on experience in a professional setting. I even got the chance to help pull focus for some videography work.”
The Mariners are grateful for the ongoing partnership with HU Arizona and know the team of students and staff will always knock the shoots out of the park.
“The Seattle Mariners look forward to working with Huntington University every year as part of our spring training video and photo capture shoots,” said Ben Mertens, vice president of creative and content services for the Mariners. “The facilities and staff are truly top notch, but what makes this partnership especially meaningful is the opportunity to collaborate with Huntington’s talented students. Their creativity, professionalism and passion play a big role in our success and we’re grateful for the energy and perspective they bring to our work each season.”
Jonathan Vinson, associate professor of film production at HU Arizona, emphasized the impact of sustained industry partnerships.
“It has been a joy to watch our students engage in this amazing opportunity to work alongside the Seattle Mariners, sharpening both their professional and industry skills,” Vinson said. “We are proud to connect our students with top-tier organizations and brands like the Mariners.”
Now in its fourth year, the partnership demonstrates HU Arizona’s commitment to experiential learning and professional integration. By embedding students in high-level production environments before the MLB season even begins, HU Arizona continues to prepare graduates who are confident, capable and industry-ready.
HU Arizona’s digital media arts programs in film production, animation and graphic design are designed to cultivate technical excellence, creative leadership and meaningful professional connections, equipping students to thrive in competitive media industries nationwide.
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Huntington University is proud to name Sarah Rainey of Huntington as the recipient of the full‑tuition scholarship from the March 31, 2026, HU Scholars Day competition.
The HU Scholars Day competition highlights high-achieving academic students and offers participants the opportunity to engage with the Honors Program on campus.
Rainey plans to major in nursing at HU.
“It is with great pleasure that I share that through Sarah’s exceptional academic achievement and dedication to learning, she has been recognized as a Huntington Scholar and full‑tuition scholarship recipient, reflecting her strong commitment to academic excellence and purposeful learning,” said Susie Carr, vice president for enrollment management and marketing.
Rainey cites her leadership as a key factor in the competition. She encourages future participants to use the gifts God has given them and to be confident in their identity as a child of God.
Since moving to Huntington a few years ago, Rainey has heard only wonderful things about HU and has enjoyed interacting with HU students, faculty and staff at her church.
Rainey looks forward to learning from and interacting with HU’s nursing professors and students.
“I am so grateful to Huntington University for this huge investment in my life!” Rainey said. “I have known that Jesus was leading me toward nursing. I, however, was unaware of how He would provide. I am praying that, through this wonderful gift, I may impact and bless many in my community for the Lord. All glory belongs to Him.”
In her free time, Rainey enjoys running, hiking, knitting and cooking. She is actively involved in her church’s youth group and helps plan and organize fundraisers.
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Huntington University has hired Dr. Robert Pool as its new vice president for student life and athletics.
Pool currently serves as vice president for student affairs and auxiliary services and Title IX coordinator at Ashland University in Ohio. Previously, he was vice president for student life and dean of students at Houghton College in New York.
“This appointment represents an important step forward as we continue to strengthen the integration of student life, athletics and spiritual formation and to invest in a more intentional, holistic student experience at Huntington,” said Huntington University President Dr. Rob Pepper. “We believe deeply in the formation of students not only academically but also spiritually, relationally and vocationally, and the vice president for student life and athletics plays a central role in shaping that experience and fostering a campus community marked by belonging, purpose and Christ-centered care.”
Pool is excited to join the Huntington community.
“I am thrilled to be joining the Forester Family soon,” Pool said. “It was immediately clear after meeting many Huntington student leaders, faculty, coaches, staff and President Pepper that Huntington University is an authentically Christ-centered institution with a winning tradition. From the board to the bench, Huntington has a clear Christian identity with ambitious plans for the future, and that clarity and growth mindset excites me.”
During the interview and selection process, Pool’s current and former colleagues described him as a collaborative and student-centered leader known for his integrity, calm presence and thoughtful approach to leadership. They noted that he builds strong relationships, delegates effectively, balances decisive leadership with inclusive decision-making and prepares proactively for challenges. Pool is widely respected for handling high-pressure situations with clarity, fairness and prudence.
Those colleagues also referenced that Pool is deeply committed to his Christian faith and is an advocate for spiritual formation, mental health and a holistic vision of student life. He is actively engaged in campus ministry, local church leadership and mission-focused service, and is known for his passion for faith-based higher education.
“Dr. Pool’s leadership will be instrumental as we continue to align our efforts across student life, athletics and the broader University in ways that support student engagement, retention and growth,” Pepper said. “We are grateful for the way God continues to provide leaders who will help us steward this mission well.”
Pool looks forward to building relationships across campus.
“I look forward to getting to know the dedicated student life, Christian formation and athletics teams soon,” Pool said. “We will spend significant time in my first 90 days visioneering and discerning together God’s designs for our collective leadership.”
Pool and his family will be relocating to Indiana. His wife, Kim, is a lifelong Hoosier, and all three of their children were born in Evansville. Pool will spend time on campus in June during his transition and will begin his role full time in July.