Hendrix College Executive and Leadership Team

Karen Tumlinson, the Vice President, Finance Operations & Chief Financial Officer at Hendrix College, manages the fiscal health and long-term economic sustainability of the institution. Overseeing budget allocation, endowment management, and institutional accounting, the Chief Financial Officer ensures alignment with the college's strategic goals. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Board of Trustees to maintain financial transparency and operational efficiency. By implementing rigorous fiscal controls, Karen Tumlinson directly impacts the availability of resources for the Hendrix Odyssey program and other academic initiatives. The Vice President, Finance Operations & Chief Financial Officer drives revenue growth through prudent asset management and cost-effective administrative practices. Through careful oversight of campus operations, the department supports the college's commitment to providing a supportive environment for personal and academic growth. Ultimately, Tumlinson secures the financial stability required for the institution to thrive as a premier liberal arts college.

Ellis Arnold, the President Emeritus at Hendrix College, provides historical perspective and strategic counsel to the current leadership team. Supporting the institution's long-term vision, the President Emeritus maintains relationships with alumni and donors to advance the college's philanthropic goals. This leadership role involves advocating for the enduring value of the liberal arts education provided by the institution. By leveraging decades of experience, Ellis Arnold directly impacts the continuity of the college's mission and its commitment to the Hendrix Odyssey program. The President Emeritus participates in high-level discussions regarding institutional legacy and future growth strategies. Through ongoing engagement with the campus community, the role reinforces the values that have defined the college since 1876. Ultimately, Arnold secures the institutional memory and external support necessary for the college to navigate the complexities of the modern higher education landscape while honoring its rich history.

Marshall Steel, the President at Hendrix College, architects the overarching strategic vision and academic direction of the institution. Overseeing the implementation of the Hendrix Odyssey program, the President ensures that the college remains a leader in engaged learning and liberal arts education. This leadership role involves collaborating with the Board of Trustees and faculty to drive institutional growth and maintain academic rigor. By fostering partnerships with external stakeholders, Marshall Steel directly impacts the college's market position and regional influence. The President manages the executive team to ensure operational excellence across all departments, from finance to student services. Through a commitment to community and personal growth, the role shapes the campus culture and student experience. Ultimately, Steel secures the long-term viability and academic prestige of the college, ensuring that the institution continues to prepare students for successful careers and graduate studies.

Karen Petersen, the President at Hendrix College, directs the execution of academic initiatives and the expansion of the college's innovative programs. Focusing on the integration of the liberal arts with career-readiness, the President ensures that the curriculum meets the needs of a diverse student body. This leadership role involves championing the Hendrix Odyssey program to enhance student engagement and experiential learning opportunities. By cultivating relationships with academic partners and industry leaders, Karen Petersen directly impacts the college's ability to provide meaningful career pathways. The President oversees the development of new majors and minors to keep the academic offerings relevant and competitive. Through strategic leadership, the role promotes a supportive environment that encourages both personal and academic growth for all students. Ultimately, Petersen secures the institution's future by balancing traditional academic values with the demands of a modern, globalized educational environment.

Jay Burling, the Associate VP, Technology Services & Chief Information Officer at Hendrix College, directs the digital infrastructure supporting the institution's academic mission. Managing campus-wide network security and enterprise software systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless integration of technology within the Hendrix Odyssey program. This leadership role involves architecting scalable cloud solutions that facilitate engaged learning across the Arkansas campus. By optimizing data management protocols, Jay Burling directly impacts the efficiency of administrative and instructional workflows. The Associate VP, Technology Services & Chief Information Officer maintains robust cybersecurity frameworks to protect sensitive institutional information. Through strategic investment in modern hardware and software, the department supports the broader goal of providing a high-quality liberal arts education. Ultimately, Burling secures the technological foundation necessary for student success and faculty productivity in an increasingly digital academic landscape.

Britni Rush, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Hendrix College, directs talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture initiatives. Managing the recruitment of faculty and staff, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the institution attracts professionals dedicated to the liberal arts mission. This leadership role involves designing comprehensive benefits packages and professional development programs that foster a supportive work environment. By streamlining personnel policies, Britni Rush directly impacts the retention of high-caliber talent across the campus. The Chief Human Resources Officer oversees compliance with labor regulations while promoting diversity and inclusion within the workforce. Through strategic workforce planning, the department aligns human capital with the evolving needs of the Hendrix Odyssey program. Ultimately, Rush secures the organizational strength necessary for the college to maintain its reputation for academic quality and community engagement in the competitive higher education sector.