Hendrix College Executive and Leadership Team

Karen Tumlinson, the Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance & Operations at Hendrix College, directs all financial planning, budgeting, and fiscal management. Tumlinson oversees the operational infrastructure, ensuring efficient resource allocation across academic and administrative departments. This leadership role involves managing investments, optimizing financial performance, and maintaining the fiscal health of the institution. By developing robust financial strategies, Karen Tumlinson supports the college's mission of providing accessible, high-quality liberal arts education. The scope of this position includes managing institutional risk and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations, thereby safeguarding the college's assets and long-term sustainability. Tumlinson's oversight extends to all financial reporting and analysis, providing critical insights for strategic decision-making and institutional growth.

Marshall Steel, the President at Hendrix College, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Steel guides the college's mission, vision, and long-term planning, ensuring academic excellence and institutional integrity. This role involves fostering relationships with key stakeholders, including the Board of Trustees, alumni, faculty, staff, and the broader community. By championing the college's values and strategic priorities, Marshall Steel drives initiatives that enhance academic programs, student success, and institutional reputation. The President's oversight extends to financial sustainability, campus development, and external relations, positioning Hendrix College for continued growth and impact in the liberal arts education sector. Steel's leadership ensures the college remains at the forefront of innovative educational practices.

Karen Petersen, the President at Hendrix College, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution of the institution. Petersen is responsible for advancing the college's academic mission, fostering a culture of innovation, and ensuring financial stability. This leadership role involves engaging with the Board of Trustees, external partners, and the academic community to uphold the college's commitment to liberal arts education. By overseeing all major institutional initiatives, Karen Petersen drives efforts to enhance student outcomes, faculty research, and campus development. The President's purview includes advocating for the college's interests, securing resources, and guiding the institution through evolving educational landscapes, thereby reinforcing Hendrix College's position as a leading liberal arts institution.

Sam Nichols, the Vice President of Enrollment and Chief Information Officer at Hendrix College, spearheads strategic initiatives for student recruitment and retention, alongside managing the institution's technological infrastructure. Nichols directs the enrollment management division, focusing on attracting and admitting qualified students who align with the college's academic profile and mission. Simultaneously, this executive leads the information technology department, ensuring robust and secure digital systems support academic, administrative, and operational functions. The dual nature of this role demands a comprehensive understanding of both market dynamics in higher education and the evolving landscape of educational technology. By integrating enrollment strategies with technological capabilities, Sam Nichols enhances the student experience from initial inquiry through graduation and beyond, driving institutional enrollment goals and operational efficiency.

Britni Rush, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Hendrix College, directs all aspects of human capital management, fostering a supportive and productive work environment. Rush oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and professional development programs for all faculty and staff. This leadership position is critical in aligning HR strategies with the college's overarching mission and values, ensuring a motivated and engaged workforce. By championing employee well-being and implementing effective HR policies, Britni Rush contributes to the retention of top talent and the smooth operation of academic and administrative functions. The scope includes cultivating a diverse and inclusive campus culture, managing performance, and ensuring compliance with labor laws, all vital to supporting Hendrix College's commitment to its community and educational objectives.