Hendrix College Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Hendrix College has 6 executives leading key functions including technology infrastructure, financial operations, human resources, and institutional leadership.

Dedicated to fostering academic excellence through the unique Odyssey program, Hendrix College empowers students with a rigorous liberal arts education that prepares graduates for diverse career paths and advanced studies.

Leadership Roles at Hendrix College

  • Vice President, Finance Operations & Chief Financial Officer - Karen Tumlinson
  • President Emeritus - Ellis Arnold
  • President - Karen Petersen
  • President - Marshall Steel
  • Associate VP, Technology Services & Chief Information Officer - Jay Burling
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Britni Rush
  • Karen Tumlinson - Vice President, Finance Operations & Chief Financial Officer

    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 development, endowment management, and institutional resource allocation, the Chief Financial Officer ensures alignment between financial planning and the college's strategic goals. This leadership role involves rigorous analysis of operational expenditures to support the diverse range of majors and minors offered. By maintaining transparent financial reporting, Karen Tumlinson provides the necessary stability for the continued growth of the Hendrix Odyssey program. The Vice President, Finance Operations & Chief Financial Officer also coordinates with the Board of Trustees to evaluate investment strategies that bolster the college's market position. Through prudent fiscal oversight, Tumlinson secures the resources required for campus infrastructure improvements and academic expansion. This commitment to financial integrity directly impacts the ability of the college to provide a supportive environment for personal and academic growth.
    Karen Tumlinson

    Ellis Arnold - President Emeritus

    Ellis Arnold, the President Emeritus at Hendrix College, provides historical perspective and strategic counsel to the current leadership team. Maintaining deep connections with alumni and donors, the President Emeritus supports institutional advancement efforts that sustain the college's long-term vision. This leadership role involves representing the institution at major events and fostering relationships that enhance the college's reputation within the broader academic community. By offering guidance on governance and mission-driven initiatives, Ellis Arnold ensures continuity in the college's commitment to engaged learning. The President Emeritus also assists in high-level fundraising campaigns that provide essential support for the Hendrix Odyssey program. Through ongoing engagement with the campus community, Arnold promotes the values of the liberal arts tradition. This advisory capacity allows the college to leverage decades of institutional knowledge while navigating contemporary challenges. Ultimately, Ellis Arnold contributes to the enduring legacy and academic quality that define the institution's identity.

    Karen Petersen - President

    Karen Petersen, the President at Hendrix College, directs the overall strategic vision and academic direction of the institution. Overseeing the implementation of the college's mission, the President focuses on expanding the reach of the Hendrix Odyssey program and strengthening the liberal arts curriculum. This leadership role involves engaging with the Board of Trustees, faculty, and student leaders to ensure the college remains a premier destination for rigorous academic inquiry. By championing innovative programs, Karen Petersen drives the institution's growth and enhances its competitive standing in the higher education market. The President also manages external relations, cultivating partnerships that support the college's commitment to community and personal growth. Through decisive leadership, Petersen navigates the complexities of modern university administration while maintaining the college's core values. This strategic focus on academic excellence and student success ensures that the institution continues to prepare graduates for diverse career paths and graduate studies.

    Marshall Steel - President

    Marshall Steel, the President at Hendrix College, manages the operational execution of the college's strategic plan and institutional priorities. Focusing on campus infrastructure and the expansion of student services, the President ensures the physical and social environment supports the academic mission. This leadership role involves coordinating with administrative departments to optimize operational efficiency and resource utilization. By fostering a culture of collaboration, Marshall Steel aligns the efforts of various campus units with the overarching goals of the liberal arts program. The President also oversees the development of new initiatives that enhance the student experience and promote community engagement. Through active participation in campus life, Steel maintains a direct connection to the needs of the student body and faculty. This operational focus supports the college's commitment to providing a supportive environment for personal and academic growth. Ultimately, Marshall Steel drives the day-to-day progress of the institution toward its long-term objectives.

    Jay Burling - Associate VP, Technology Services & Chief Information Officer

    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 classroom environment. This leadership role involves architecting scalable solutions that facilitate the unique Hendrix Odyssey program, enabling students to engage with digital tools effectively. By optimizing data management protocols, Burling supports the college's commitment to innovative learning. The Associate VP, Technology Services & Chief Information Officer also collaborates with academic departments to implement advanced research computing resources. Through consistent oversight of technical operations, Jay Burling maintains the reliability of campus communication platforms. This strategic focus on digital transformation enhances the overall educational experience, ensuring that faculty and students possess the necessary resources for success in a modern liberal arts setting.

    Britni Rush - Chief Human Resources Officer

    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 programs and professional development opportunities that foster a supportive workplace environment. By implementing equitable compensation structures, Britni Rush maintains high levels of employee engagement across the campus. The Chief Human Resources Officer also oversees compliance with labor regulations and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within the college community. Through strategic workforce planning, Rush aligns human capital with the evolving needs of the academic departments. This focus on personnel management supports the overall institutional goal of providing a vibrant campus life. Ultimately, Britni Rush cultivates a professional atmosphere that enables faculty and staff to contribute effectively to the success of the student body.

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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 (Vice President, Finance Operations & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Ellis Arnold (President Emeritus) 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 (Vice President, Finance Operations & Chief Financial Officer), Ellis Arnold (President Emeritus), Karen Petersen (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Hendrix College have?
    Hendrix College has 6 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 Vice President, Finance Operations & Chief Financial Officer, President Emeritus, President, President, Associate VP, Technology Services & Chief Information Officer.