Bluffton University names 11th president

BLUFFTON — Bluffton University has appointed Alexander Sider as its 11th president, effective Friday following a unanimous vote by the institution's Board of Trustees. The announcement comes five months after the resignation of Jane Wood and the university's failed merger attempt with the University of Findlay. Sider has served as the interim president since February, stepping in during the difficult transition period. "Shortly after his appointment as Interim President this past February, it was quite clear that Dr. Sider has the vision, leadership skills and commitment to Bluffton's mission and values, to lead Bluffton to a more secure future so that Bluffton can continue to provide a nurturing environment for student success," Cheryl Hacker '81, Bluffton University Board of Trustees Chair, said in a release from the university. "His collaborative approach is a testament to his understanding that 'relationships matter.'" A member of Bluffton's faculty since 2006, Sider has held multiple different roles, including The Harry and Jean Yoder Scholar in Bible and Theology, Director of Peace and Conflict Studies, Director of University Assessment Programs, ADA Coordinator and Vice President of Academic Affairs and Academic Dean. During the transitional period, Sider encouraged communication, collaboration and trust, an approach he intends to continue into his new role as acting president. "Bluffton has been my home for nearly two decades. It's where I've taught, learned, grown, and witnessed the transformative power of a Bluffton education," Sider said in the release. "To be named the 11th president of this remarkable institution is both an incredible honor and a humbling responsibility. I am grateful for the trust Bluffton's Board of Trustees have in me to lead Bluffton into the future." His appointment follows a search process led by Annette Heslep, member of the Bluffton University Board of Trustees. "Dr. Sider has shown great resilience during this time of transition," Heslep said in the release. "His commitment to leading with strong Christian values, his vision for the future of Bluffton University, and his focus on student successes are all attributes that we believe will lead us to a stronger and brighter tomorrow. As a board, we have nothing but respect and admiration for what Dr. Sider has accomplished as our Interim President, and we are excited for a future that includes his leadership. He has the full support of the Board of Trustees, as demonstrated by the unanimous confirmation of his appointment." Wood, who served as president since 2018, resigned in February. The university's proposed merger also fell through shortly after, following a decision by the University of Findlay's Board of Trustees. Despite the difficult transition period, leaders at Bluffton remained committed to the school's mission to, "prepare students of all backgrounds for life, vocation and service to all people," the release states. "Bluffton's mission has shaped generations of students," Sider said in the release. "I truly believe it's more relevant and needed now than ever. As we look to Bluffton's future, I carry with me both a steady reverence for our traditions and a clear-eyed vision for our next chapter. A journey that invites innovation, expands opportunity, and strengthens our shared values." Sider holds a Ph.D in religion from Duke University, a master of theological studies from The Divinity School at Duke University, as well as a B.A. in religion with a philosophy concentration from Messiah University. Additionally, he serves as a visiting fellow in theology at Blackfriars Hall, University of Oxford. Sider and his wife, Kathy Dickson, a 2003 Bluffton alumna, have two sons and live in Bluffton, where they regularly attend First Mennonite Church. An inauguration ceremony will be held for Sider on Oct. 2, as a part of Bluffton's Homecoming Weekend. The ceremony will be held from 3-4 p.m. at Yoder Recital Hall, followed by a reception on the recital hall lawn. Seating is limited, RSVPs are required. A livestream will also be available. "Bluffton's commitment to academic excellence, community, and preparing students to thrive in an ever-changing world remains strong, and I am excited to work alongside our dedicated faculty, staff, and students as we continue to build upon this solid foundation," Sider said in the release.