Leadership Overview
Cornerstone University has 8 executives leading key functions including operations, financial management, information systems, and global institutional leadership.
Committed to academic excellence and faith-based development, Cornerstone University fosters a transformative educational environment that prepares students for professional success and ethical influence within a global society.
Committed to academic excellence and faith-based development, Cornerstone University fosters a transformative educational environment that prepares students for professional success and ethical influence within a global society.
Leadership Roles at Cornerstone University
Dave Veneklase - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer
Dave Veneklase, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Cornerstone University, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic strategy of the institution. Veneklase oversees budgeting, endowment management, and financial reporting to ensure the university remains a sustainable, Christ-centered academic leader. By directing capital allocation and auditing processes, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer protects the financial integrity of the university. This role requires constant interaction with the Board to present transparent fiscal data and strategic growth projections. Dave Veneklase executes complex financial planning that supports the expansion of degree programs and campus facilities. Through prudent management of institutional assets, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer provides the necessary capital to fuel academic innovation and student support services, ultimately ensuring that the university maintains its reputation as one of America's Best Colleges while achieving its mission-driven financial objectives.

Marc Fowler - Exective Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
Marc Fowler, the Exective Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Cornerstone University, directs all internal administrative functions and campus infrastructure. Fowler manages the daily operational efficiency of the institution, ensuring that physical and digital resources support the broader academic mission. By overseeing facilities management and auxiliary services, the Exective Vice President and Chief Operating Officer maintains a high standard for the student experience. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the Board to align operational expenditures with long-term institutional goals. Marc Fowler drives initiatives that optimize resource allocation across the Grand Rapids campus, facilitating a seamless environment for faculty and students. Through rigorous oversight of administrative workflows, the Exective Vice President and Chief Operating Officer secures the operational stability necessary for the university to thrive in a competitive higher education landscape while upholding the core values of the institution.
Rex Rogers - President
Rex Rogers, the President at Cornerstone University, provides overarching vision and leadership for the institution's academic and spiritual mission. Rogers directs the strategic development of the university, focusing on the integration of a Christian worldview into every facet of the curriculum. By overseeing the executive leadership team, the President ensures that all departments remain aligned with the goal of preparing graduates for ethical leadership. This role involves representing the university to external stakeholders, donors, and the broader academic community to secure the resources necessary for growth. Rex Rogers drives the expansion of degree programs, ensuring that the university remains a top-tier institution in Michigan and beyond. Through a commitment to academic rigor and faith-based values, the President shapes the culture of the campus, fostering an environment where students are equipped to influence the world through their professional and personal lives.

Yochanan Williams - President, International
Yochanan Williams, the President, International at Cornerstone University, directs the global outreach and international partnership strategy for the institution. Williams oversees the development of cross-border academic collaborations and the recruitment of a diverse student body from across the globe. By managing international programs, the President, International expands the reach of the university's Christ-centered education to new markets. This leadership role involves building relationships with global educational entities to facilitate student exchange and research opportunities. Yochanan Williams drives the university's international presence, ensuring that the institution remains relevant in a globalized economy. Through the cultivation of strategic alliances, the President, International enhances the university's reputation as a destination for students seeking a comprehensive education that integrates faith and professional development. By focusing on global growth, the President, International ensures that the university's mission of preparing graduates to influence the world extends far beyond the borders of Michigan.
Gerson Moreno-Riano - President
Gerson Moreno-Riano, the President at Cornerstone University, leads the academic advancement and scholarly reputation of the institution. Moreno-Riano oversees the faculty development and curriculum design processes, ensuring that all degree programs meet the highest standards of accreditation and excellence. By directing the academic vision, the President fosters a culture of intellectual inquiry that remains deeply rooted in the university's Christian mission. This role involves collaborating with the Board and executive leadership to refine the university's market position as a premier provider of higher education. Gerson Moreno-Riano drives the implementation of innovative teaching methodologies that prepare students for success in their chosen professional fields. Through a focus on academic quality and student outcomes, the President ensures that the university continues to attract high-achieving students who seek an education that integrates faith with rigorous professional training, ultimately strengthening the institution's impact on society.

Joseph Stowell - President
Joseph Stowell, the President at Cornerstone University, serves as the primary advocate for the university's spiritual and cultural identity. Stowell directs the institutional efforts to maintain a vibrant, faith-based community that supports the holistic development of every student. By overseeing the campus ministry and student life initiatives, the President ensures that the university's mission remains central to the daily experience of the student body. This leadership role involves engaging with alumni and the broader community to promote the university's values and achievements. Joseph Stowell drives the development of programs that emphasize ethical leadership and service, preparing graduates to make a positive impact in their professional careers. Through a focus on spiritual formation and academic excellence, the President reinforces the university's commitment to its founding principles, ensuring that the institution remains a beacon for those seeking a faith-integrated education in a rapidly changing world.

Rebecca Cooper - President
Rebecca Cooper, the President at Cornerstone University, manages the strategic partnerships and community engagement efforts that support the university's growth. Cooper directs the outreach initiatives that connect the institution with local and regional business leaders, fostering opportunities for student internships and professional development. By overseeing external relations, the President ensures that the university remains a vital contributor to the economic and social fabric of the region. This role involves coordinating with the executive team to align community engagement with the university's long-term academic goals. Rebecca Cooper drives the development of programs that bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, enhancing the employability of graduates. Through a focus on building strong, mutually beneficial relationships, the President strengthens the university's position as a leader in higher education, ensuring that the institution continues to provide students with the connections and skills necessary for professional success.
Michael Rohwer - Vice President, Information Systems & Chief Information Officer
Michael Rohwer, the Vice President, Information Systems & Chief Information Officer at Cornerstone University, architects the digital infrastructure that powers both on-campus and online learning environments. Rohwer manages cybersecurity, data analytics, and enterprise software systems to ensure seamless connectivity for the entire university community. By overseeing the integration of educational technology, the Vice President, Information Systems & Chief Information Officer enables faculty to deliver high-quality instruction across diverse platforms. This leadership role involves aligning technical investments with the strategic goals of the institution to enhance student engagement and administrative efficiency. Michael Rohwer drives the digital transformation of the university, ensuring that information systems remain robust and scalable. Through the implementation of advanced network solutions, the Vice President, Information Systems & Chief Information Officer supports the university's commitment to providing a comprehensive, modern education that prepares graduates for a technology-driven world while maintaining the security of institutional data.
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