Northwest Nazarene University announced the election of Mark DeMichael as its 14th president. DeMichael was introduced to the NNU community during a special Community Chapel service on Monday, March 10, following a press conference earlier that morning.

DeMichael brings extensive experience in higher education leadership, having served at Indiana Wesleyan University for over 25 years in student development and athletics. Most recently, as vice president of Student Development & Athletics, he provided strategic oversight for student retention, enrollment, and campus life, fostering a thriving academic and faith-centered environment. Before his tenure at IWU, DeMichael spent several years as a faculty member and head baseball coach at Eastern Nazarene College—his alma mater. His deep commitment to the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition, collaborative leadership style, and passion for student success make him a strong fit for the NNU community. DeMichael wholeheartedly embraces the NNU mission statement and has high regard for the history and legacy of the university.

DeMichael holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of the Cumberlands, a Master of Education in Physical Education from Azusa Pacific University, and a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from Eastern Nazarene College. Alongside his wife, Kim, he is excited to engage with students and the local community. His resolution to build close relationships with the congregations and leaders in the Church of the Nazarene's Northwest Field is driven by his heart for the local church.

The Board of Trustees selected DeMichael after an extensive national search process facilitated by the executive search firm FaithSearch Partners. The Presidential Search Committee, made up of trustees, faculty, staff, students, Foundation Board, and Alumni Board representation, prioritized candidates who demonstrated strong leadership, a commitment to NNU's mission, and a vision for guiding the university into the future.

"DeMichael's experience, leadership, and commitment to Christian higher education make him an excellent fit for this role,” said Board of Trustees Chair Mike Zahare. “We look forward to working together to continue the transformative work happening at NNU."

DeMichael expressed excitement about joining NNU and looks forward to getting to know the students, faculty, and staff.

"I am honored to serve as the 14th president of Northwest Nazarene University,” he said. “NNU's dedication to academic excellence, Christian faith, and transformative education is inspiring, and I look forward to becoming part of this incredible community. I am eager to build relationships and listen and work alongside the NNU faculty and staff to advance the university's mission."

Current NNU President Joel Pearsall also extended a warm welcome and shared words of encouragement about the transition.

"I have great confidence that DeMichael will serve NNU well,” he said. “His passion for, dedication to, and leadership in Christian higher education will be a tremendous blessing to NNU and the entire Boise Valley community. I'm excited to see how God will use DeMichael to lead NNU into the future, and I am convinced that NNU's best days are ahead."

DeMichael is not the only member of his family serving in Christian higher education. Kim, his wife of 35 years, served 28 years as a faculty member in teacher education at Eastern Nazarene College and Indiana Wesleyan University. They have two daughters, Ashley and Kasey, and a son-in-law, David, who are also actively involved in Christian higher education.

DeMichael will officially take office during the summer of 2025, with an inauguration ceremony planned for this coming fall.

For more information, visit nnu.edu.