Last week the University of Findlay announced Dr. Richard Ludwick as the new president of the 144-year-old institution. The announcement was made just before the commencement of the academic year, and with much fanfare. The lead up to the announcement included a full week of presidential hopefuls visiting the campus and introducing themselves to faculty and staff.
Undoubtedly, there were anxieties all around campus as the selection was made. This change in leadership is monumental. Serving from 2010-2026, current UF President Dr. Katherine Fell’s tenure is the second longest in the University’s history, only behind Dr. Kenneth Zirkle’s 20-year run from 1983-2003. A large portion of the faculty and staff at UF have only ever served under one president.
More broadly, the change comes at a time of great uneasiness with higher education in general and UF isn’t immune from that. While the University of Findlay just celebrated their Together We Will campaign which raised a tremendous $90+ Million (announced on the same day as Dr. Ludwick’s appointment), UF is cutting programs, restructuring colleges, and making hard choices with employment.
In the midst of uncertainty around high education, what will this new president bring?
Dr. Ludwick, who starts in the position on July 1st, 2026, was most recently the president of the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas and has served either as president or other leadership positions at multiple other education institutions. He’s celebrated at St. Thomas and elsewhere as a strong leader and fundraiser. UF Board Chair, Chris Ostrander says that, “his proven track record of leadership, combined with a clear vision for the future, positions the University to continue its upward trajectory while remaining grounded in its mission and values”.
According to a recent interview, Dr. Ludwick is a committed Christian who recognizes the importance of faith on campus, saying, “Because this is a Christian mission-centered institution, I think that we are called to be Christ to one another.” For more on Dr. Ludwick, the University of Findlay’s media has shared both an announcement and an interview. Read them both here:
With all of the excitement surrounding the new presidential hire, current president Dr. Fell hasn’t gone under appreciated. On May 2nd Dr. Fell received the honorary title of President Emeritus. The only other UF president named as such being DeBow Freed, Dr. Fell’s immediate predecessor. One UF Board Trustee, Kim Stumpp, said that, “the University of Findlay has prospered under her leadership as Dr. Fell has remained committed to maintain the identity of the University, and upholding the values of its founders, the Churches of God, General Conference and the City of Findlay.
In a humorous moment from the commencement, Ostrander laid out how long 16 years really is. “Dr. Fell has given 16 years of leadership to this institution. 16 years. Think about that. 16 years ago the iPhone did not exist. 16 years ago Blockbuster did exist. 16 years ago the Cleveland Browns hadn’t yet won a Super Bowl. Shoot. Somethings will never change!” Ostrander went on to explain how the numbers don’t accurately explain all of the work that she put into the role, nor the success she has helped steward over her tenure. The long nights, the crises managed, and the students and faculty who were supported and mentored.
From our position at the CGGC office, where we have regularly worked alongside Dr. Katherine Fell and the University, we feel that Dr. Fell has been a true joy to work with. Under Dr. Fell’s leadership, UF and the CGGC have strengthened our relationship and partnered together to bring about truly awesome ministry on and off campus.
We’re grateful for Dr. Fell’s leadership, praying for her in these last months as President. Likewise, we’re wishing her all the best in her much earned retirement.
For the future, we excitedly welcome Dr. Richard Ludwick, waiting with great expectation and hope that his tenure will bring yet more beautiful mutuality.
CGGC eNews—Vol. 20, No. 19
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