Hendrix College Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Hendrix College has 5 executives leading key functions including finance, enrollment, human resources, and strategy.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, Hendrix College provides a rigorous liberal arts education, fostering engaged learning and preparing students for diverse career paths and graduate studies.

Leadership Roles at Hendrix College

  • Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance & Operations - Karen Tumlinson
  • President - Marshall Steel
  • President - Karen Petersen
  • Vice President of Enrollment and Chief Information Officer - Sam Nichols
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Britni Rush
  • Karen Tumlinson - Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance & Operations

    Karen Tumlinson, the Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance & Operations at Hendrix College, directs the institution's financial health and operational infrastructure. Overseeing all fiscal activities, Tumlinson manages budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation to support the college's academic mission and strategic objectives. This leadership role involves ensuring financial stability and optimizing operational efficiency across campus functions. By implementing robust financial controls and driving operational improvements, Karen Tumlinson directly supports the college's commitment to providing a high-quality liberal arts education. The scope of this position includes managing investments, overseeing accounting practices, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations, all vital for the sustained growth and academic integrity of Hendrix College.
    Karen Tumlinson

    Marshall Steel - President

    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 financial sustainability. This leadership position involves fostering relationships with key stakeholders, including faculty, staff, students, alumni, and the broader community, to advance the college's goals. By championing innovative programs and upholding the institution's core values, Marshall Steel drives the strategic growth and reputation of Hendrix College. The President's oversight extends to all academic and administrative departments, ensuring cohesive operations and a commitment to the liberal arts tradition.

    Karen Petersen - President

    Karen Petersen, the President at Hendrix College, directs the comprehensive strategic vision and operational oversight of the institution. Petersen is responsible for advancing the college's academic programs, fostering a vibrant campus culture, and ensuring financial stewardship. This executive leadership role involves cultivating strong relationships with the board of trustees, faculty, staff, and external partners to enhance the college's standing and impact. By championing initiatives that support student success and institutional growth, Karen Petersen solidifies Hendrix College's commitment to its liberal arts mission. The President's purview encompasses all facets of the college, driving forward its objectives for educational distinction and community engagement.

    Sam Nichols - Vice President of Enrollment and Chief Information Officer

    Sam Nichols, the Vice President of Enrollment and Chief Information Officer at Hendrix College, spearheads both student recruitment strategies and the institution's technological framework. Nichols drives enrollment initiatives, focusing on attracting and retaining a diverse student body that aligns with the college's academic standards and mission. Simultaneously, this executive oversees all information technology operations, ensuring robust digital infrastructure supports academic, administrative, and student life functions. By integrating enrollment management with technological advancement, Sam Nichols enhances the student experience from initial inquiry through graduation. This dual role requires strategic planning for both market outreach and system development, critical for Hendrix College's competitive positioning and operational effectiveness in the evolving educational landscape.
    Sam Nichols

    Britni Rush - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Britni Rush, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Hendrix College, leads the strategic management of the institution's workforce and organizational development. Rush oversees all human resources functions, including talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and professional development programs. This critical role ensures that Hendrix College cultivates a supportive and productive work environment, aligning human capital strategies with the college's overarching mission and values. By fostering a culture of engagement and growth, Britni Rush supports faculty and staff in their contributions to student success and institutional advancement. The focus remains on attracting, retaining, and developing a high-caliber team essential for delivering Hendrix College's distinctive liberal arts experience.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Hendrix College Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Hendrix College?
    Hendrix College is led by Karen Tumlinson (Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance & Operations), along with executives such as Marshall Steel (President) and Karen Petersen (President).
    Who is part of Hendrix College’s executive team?
    The executive team of Hendrix College includes leaders such as Karen Tumlinson (Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance & Operations), Marshall Steel (President), Karen Petersen (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Hendrix College have?
    Hendrix College has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Hendrix College’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Hendrix College includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Finance & Operations, President, President, Vice President of Enrollment and Chief Information Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer.