Lipscomb University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Lipscomb University has 9 executives leading key functions including revenue generation, strategic operations, technology, and institutional leadership.

Driven by a Christ-centered community, Lipscomb University is dedicated to preparing students for purposeful careers marked by servant leadership, fostering spiritual and personal growth through faith-integrated experiences and hands-on learning.

Leadership Roles at Lipscomb University

  • Chief Executive Officer, Residence Business As Mission - Burt Nowers
  • President - Candice McQueen
  • Senior Class President - Shythaly Herrera
  • To The Special Counsel & President, Strategy - Hope Nordstrom
  • Chief Revenue Officer - Jerold Givens
  • Chief of Staff - Lindsay Bales
  • Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Brett Hinson
  • Executive Administrative Assistant To the Vice President and Chief Information Officer of Information Technology, Leases and Contracts Administrator - Cynthia Mears
  • Team Captain - Justin Rosser
  • Burt Nowers - Chief Executive Officer, Residence Business As Mission

    Burt Nowers, the Chief Executive Officer, Residence Business As Mission at Lipscomb University, spearheads the strategic development and operational management of the university's residence life initiatives as a mission-driven enterprise. Nowers oversees the creation of supportive and faith-integrated living environments that nurture students' spiritual and personal growth, aligning residential experiences with the university's core values. This leadership position involves managing all aspects of student housing, ensuring safety, community, and a positive atmosphere conducive to academic success. By fostering a Christ-centered community within the residences, Burt Nowers enhances the overall transformative education offered by Lipscomb. The Chief Executive Officer's focus is on creating purposeful living spaces that prepare students for servant leadership.

    Candice McQueen - President

    Candice McQueen, the President at Lipscomb University, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution, guiding its mission to prepare students for purposeful careers marked by servant leadership. McQueen oversees all academic, administrative, and spiritual development initiatives, ensuring a cohesive and Christ-centered educational experience. This paramount role involves fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, advancing the university's reputation, and driving innovation across all programs. By championing faith-integrated learning and hands-on opportunities, Candice McQueen ensures Lipscomb remains at the forefront of transformative education. The President's commitment is to cultivate an environment where students can achieve spiritual and personal growth, making a meaningful impact.
    Candice McQueen

    Shythaly Herrera - Senior Class President

    Shythaly Herrera, the Senior Class President at Lipscomb University, represents the senior cohort, advocating for student interests and organizing initiatives that enhance the campus experience. Herrera leads efforts to foster a strong sense of community and spiritual growth among graduating students, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met. This leadership position involves collaborating with university administration to implement programs that support students' transition into purposeful careers. By promoting servant leadership principles and faith-integrated activities, Shythaly Herrera contributes to the holistic development of students. The Senior Class President's work ensures a memorable and impactful final year at Lipscomb.

    Hope Nordstrom - To The Special Counsel & President, Strategy

    Hope Nordstrom, To The Special Counsel & President, Strategy at Lipscomb University, provides critical strategic support and advisory services to advance the institution's overarching goals. Nordstrom collaborates closely with the President and Special Counsel to develop and refine strategic plans, ensuring alignment with the university's mission of servant leadership and faith-integrated education. This role involves in-depth analysis of institutional priorities and market dynamics to identify opportunities for growth and enhancement. By contributing to strategic decision-making, Hope Nordstrom plays a vital part in shaping the future of Lipscomb University. The focus remains on nurturing students' spiritual and personal growth through transformative educational experiences.

    Jerold Givens - Chief Revenue Officer

    Jerold Givens, the Chief Revenue Officer at Lipscomb University, directs all revenue-generating initiatives and financial strategies to support the institution's mission of purposeful careers and servant leadership. Givens oversees the development and execution of comprehensive revenue models, ensuring alignment with academic program growth and student enrollment targets. This leadership role involves identifying new market opportunities and optimizing existing revenue streams across various university departments. By analyzing market trends and student demand, Jerold Givens drives financial sustainability and enhances the university's capacity to deliver transformative educational experiences. The Chief Revenue Officer's focus remains on maximizing institutional resources to foster spiritual and personal growth for all students.
    Jerold Givens

    Lindsay Bales - Chief of Staff

    Lindsay Bales, the Chief of Staff at Lipscomb University, provides strategic support and operational oversight to ensure the effective implementation of institutional goals. Bales manages key projects and initiatives, facilitating cross-departmental collaboration to advance the university's mission of servant leadership and faith-integrated education. This role involves coordinating communication between leadership, faculty, and staff, ensuring seamless operations across all university functions. By streamlining processes and driving strategic alignment, Lindsay Bales enhances the efficiency of the university's operations. The Chief of Staff's dedication to nurturing students' spiritual and personal growth is evident in the support provided to all academic and administrative endeavors.

    Brett Hinson - Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer

    Brett Hinson, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at Lipscomb University, architects and directs the institution's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Hinson oversees the implementation of innovative technological solutions that support academic programs, enhance student learning experiences, and streamline administrative operations. This critical role involves managing cybersecurity, data integrity, and the integration of new technologies to foster a robust digital environment. By ensuring reliable and advanced IT services, Brett Hinson empowers faculty and students with the tools necessary for success in their purposeful careers. The Chief Information Officer's commitment to hands-on learning extends to leveraging technology for transformative educational outcomes.

    Cynthia Mears - Executive Administrative Assistant To the Vice President and Chief Information Officer of Information Technology, Leases and Contracts Administrator

    Cynthia Mears, the Executive Administrative Assistant To the Vice President and Chief Information Officer of Information Technology, Leases and Contracts Administrator at Lipscomb University, provides essential administrative and operational support to the IT leadership. Mears manages complex scheduling, coordinates critical communications, and administers leases and contracts, ensuring the smooth functioning of technology-related operations and agreements. This role is pivotal in facilitating the efficient execution of the Chief Information Officer's strategic initiatives, including the deployment of new technologies and the management of vendor relationships. By maintaining meticulous records and overseeing contractual obligations, Cynthia Mears directly contributes to the university's ability to deliver a transformative education and support its Christ-centered community.
    Cynthia Mears

    Justin Rosser - Team Captain

    Justin Rosser, the Team Captain at Lipscomb University, leads and motivates student teams, fostering collaboration and driving success in various academic and extracurricular endeavors. Rosser's role involves guiding team members, ensuring effective communication, and promoting a spirit of servant leadership aligned with the university's mission. This position requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to inspire peers towards shared goals, contributing to a Christ-centered community. By facilitating teamwork and encouraging hands-on learning experiences, Justin Rosser supports the development of career-ready professionals. The Team Captain's dedication enhances the transformative education offered, preparing students for impactful contributions.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Lipscomb University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Lipscomb University?
    Lipscomb University is led by Burt Nowers (Chief Executive Officer, Residence Business As Mission), along with executives such as Candice McQueen (President) and Shythaly Herrera (Senior Class President).
    Who is part of Lipscomb University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Lipscomb University includes leaders such as Burt Nowers (Chief Executive Officer, Residence Business As Mission), Candice McQueen (President), Shythaly Herrera (Senior Class President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Lipscomb University have?
    Lipscomb University has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Lipscomb University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Lipscomb University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Residence Business As Mission, President, Senior Class President, To The Special Counsel & President, Strategy, Chief Revenue Officer.