Hendrix College Executive and Leadership Team

Karen Tumlinson, the Vice President, Finance Operations & Chief Financial Officer at Hendrix College, manages the institution's comprehensive financial health and operational efficiency. This executive oversees all financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and reporting functions, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability. Tumlinson directs investment strategies and manages financial risk, safeguarding the college's assets to support its long-term academic and programmatic goals. The Vice President, Finance Operations & Chief Financial Officer also leads efforts in optimizing financial operations, including revenue cycle management and expense control, directly impacting the college's ability to deliver its unique liberal arts experience. Karen Tumlinson's leadership ensures robust financial infrastructure, enabling Hendrix College to pursue its mission of academic quality and engaged learning.

Ellis Arnold, the President Emeritus at Hendrix College, provides ongoing counsel and support, drawing upon extensive experience in institutional leadership and strategic development. This distinguished role involves advising current leadership on matters of governance, long-term vision, and community engagement, ensuring continuity and the preservation of the college's core values. Arnold's legacy contributions continue to inform the college's commitment to academic quality and its unique Hendrix Odyssey program. The President Emeritus serves as an ambassador for Hendrix College, fostering relationships with alumni, donors, and external stakeholders. Ellis Arnold's continued involvement reinforces the institution's dedication to its mission of providing a rigorous liberal arts education and fostering personal and academic growth within a supportive environment.

Marshall Steel, the President at Hendrix College, directs the overall strategic vision and operational leadership of the institution. This executive role encompasses guiding academic affairs, institutional advancement, and external relations, ensuring the college upholds its commitment to academic quality and engaged learning. Steel oversees the implementation of innovative programs, including the Hendrix Odyssey program, designed to prepare students for diverse career paths and graduate studies. The President champions the college's mission within the broader educational landscape and fosters a vibrant campus community. Marshall Steel's leadership focuses on enhancing the student experience, securing resources for growth, and advancing the college's reputation as a premier liberal arts institution. This role is central to maintaining Hendrix College's supportive environment for personal and academic development.

Karen Petersen, the President at Hendrix College, drives the strategic direction and comprehensive leadership of the institution. This executive position involves overseeing all facets of college operations, including academic excellence, financial stewardship, and community engagement, to advance the college's mission. Petersen is dedicated to enhancing the distinctive liberal arts education offered, emphasizing the Hendrix Odyssey program's role in preparing students for future success. The President cultivates relationships with stakeholders, including faculty, staff, students, alumni, and the wider community, ensuring a collaborative and supportive environment. Karen Petersen's leadership focuses on institutional growth, program innovation, and maintaining the high academic standards that define Hendrix College, reinforcing its commitment to fostering personal and intellectual development.

Britni Rush, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Hendrix College, directs all human capital strategies and operations. This leadership role encompasses talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and professional development initiatives, ensuring alignment with the college's mission. Rush oversees the implementation of HR policies that support a diverse and inclusive campus community, fostering an environment conducive to academic and personal growth. By managing workforce planning and organizational development, Britni Rush ensures that Hendrix College attracts and retains top talent, crucial for delivering its distinctive liberal arts education. The Chief Human Resources Officer also guides initiatives related to employee well-being and compliance, maintaining a supportive and equitable workplace for all faculty and staff.

Jay Burling, the Associate VP, Technology Services & Chief Information Officer at Hendrix College, architects and executes the institution's technology strategy. This leadership position involves overseeing all aspects of information technology infrastructure, including network operations, cybersecurity, and enterprise systems, to support academic and administrative functions. Burling drives innovation in technology services, ensuring that students and faculty have access to cutting-edge tools that enhance the engaged learning experience. The Associate VP, Technology Services & Chief Information Officer also manages the IT budget and directs the technology services team, focusing on reliability, security, and scalability. Jay Burling's strategic vision ensures that Hendrix College leverages technology effectively to advance its mission and maintain its academic quality in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.