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 development, endowment management, and capital planning, the Vice President, Finance Operations & Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial resources directly support the college's academic goals. This leadership role involves collaborating with the Board of Trustees to maintain transparency and fiscal responsibility. By optimizing operational expenditures, Karen Tumlinson secures the necessary funding for innovative programs and campus infrastructure improvements. Furthermore, the Vice President, Finance Operations & Chief Financial Officer monitors regional economic trends to guide institutional investment strategies. Through rigorous financial oversight, Tumlinson protects the assets of the college while enabling growth. Ultimately, the Vice President, Finance Operations & Chief Financial Officer provides the stability required for the continued success of the liberal arts mission.

Karen Petersen, the President at Hendrix College, provides the overarching strategic vision and executive leadership for the entire institution. Overseeing academic affairs, community engagement, and institutional advancement, the President ensures that the college remains a leader in liberal arts education. This leadership role involves representing the institution to external stakeholders, alumni, and the United Methodist Church. By championing the unique Hendrix Odyssey program, Karen Petersen drives the college's commitment to engaged learning and student success. Furthermore, the President coordinates with the cabinet to align departmental goals with the long-term mission of the college. Through effective advocacy and fundraising, Petersen secures the resources needed to expand academic offerings and campus facilities. Ultimately, the President maintains the integrity of the academic environment while guiding the institution toward future growth and continued relevance in the higher education sector.

Ellis Arnold, the President Emeritus at Hendrix College, serves as a senior advisor and institutional historian, providing continuity for the college's long-standing traditions. Overseeing special projects and high-level donor relations, the President Emeritus ensures that the core values of the institution remain central to current strategic initiatives. This leadership role involves mentoring emerging campus leaders and maintaining strong ties with the broader academic community. By leveraging deep institutional knowledge, Ellis Arnold supports the current administration in navigating complex challenges and opportunities. Furthermore, the President Emeritus facilitates connections between the college and its extensive alumni network to bolster institutional support. Through consistent engagement, Arnold preserves the legacy of the college while fostering a culture of philanthropy. Ultimately, the President Emeritus contributes to the stability and reputation of the institution by bridging the gap between historical success and future aspirations.

Britni Rush, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Hendrix College, directs all personnel strategies and organizational development initiatives. Overseeing talent acquisition, employee relations, and benefits administration, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures alignment with the institution's mission of academic excellence. This leadership role involves cultivating a supportive campus culture that attracts and retains high-caliber faculty and staff. By implementing robust professional development programs, Britni Rush directly impacts the operational efficiency of the college. Furthermore, the Chief Human Resources Officer manages complex compliance requirements and labor policies across the Arkansas campus. Through strategic workforce planning, Rush strengthens the internal infrastructure necessary to support the unique Hendrix Odyssey program. Ultimately, the Chief Human Resources Officer maintains a focus on fostering an inclusive environment that promotes personal and professional growth for every member of the campus community.

Jay Burling, the Associate VP, Technology Services & Chief Information Officer at Hendrix College, architects the digital infrastructure supporting modern academic and administrative functions. Overseeing cybersecurity, network operations, and instructional technology, the Associate VP, Technology Services & Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity across the campus. This leadership role involves integrating advanced digital tools into the Hendrix Odyssey program to enhance student engagement. By modernizing data systems, Jay Burling improves the efficiency of institutional research and student services. Furthermore, the Associate VP, Technology Services & Chief Information Officer manages the deployment of hardware and software solutions that facilitate remote and in-person learning. Through proactive technology management, Burling mitigates digital risks while fostering innovation. Ultimately, the Associate VP, Technology Services & Chief Information Officer drives the technological evolution of the college to meet the demands of a competitive higher education landscape.