Jenifer Ward is Luther's 11th President

Posted: Tue, Mar 19, 2019 8:34 AM

The Provost and Dean of the College for Centenary College in Shreveport, Louisiana, Dr. Jenifer K. Ward, has been unanimously elected Luther College's 11th president. Ward has a PhD from Vanderbilt University and has worked in academia for nearly 30 years.

In addition to her duties as provost and dean of the college, Ward has served as professor of modern language and culture and as the Caroline and Ed Crawford Eminent Scholars Chair of Liberal Arts at Centenary, the only tier-one national liberal arts college in Louisiana.

"Dr. Ward is a visionary and passionate leader who has repeatedly demonstrated the ability to effectively lead transformational change with an inclusive and collaborative style that builds relationships and inspires and motivates her colleagues across campus to achieve a shared vision," said the chair of the presidential search committee, J. Robert Paulson, Jr.,

Ward will officially begin her new job July 1st, following the retirement June 30th of Luther's 10th president, Dr. Paula J. Carlson, who has served since 2014. Said Luther Board of Regents Chair Wendy Davidson of Carlson, "We are grateful for her work with the cabinet, faculty and staff in setting a strong foundation and know she will graciously partner with Dr. Ward for a smooth leadership transition."

Said Ward, "We are at a crucial inflection point in the history of liberal arts education in our country, and in a world that needs the kind of graduates Luther College fosters." She added, "Everyone I met during the search process impressed me with their tough questions, their love for Luther, and their commitment to ensuring a bright future for our students and the communities and environments they will help steward. I look forward to exploring Decorah and to joining in the work of the generations who have shaped the legacy of this great institution."