Taylor University Executive and Leadership Team

Eugene Habecker, President Emeritus at Taylor University, provides ongoing counsel and strategic insight, drawing from extensive experience leading the institution. This distinguished role involves advising current leadership on matters of academic excellence, institutional development, and the perpetuation of the university's Christ-centered mission. Habecker's legacy includes significant contributions to fostering personal growth and shaping the university's commitment to developing servant-leaders. The position leverages deep historical knowledge of Taylor University's operations and its impact on undergraduate, graduate, and adult learners. Eugene Habecker continues to champion the university's values, offering a unique perspective that supports its enduring dedication to providing a rigorous and transformative educational experience within a vibrant community.

Dray Caldwell, Presidential Fellow - Office of the President at Taylor University, actively supports the President's strategic agenda and operational priorities. This role involves deep engagement with key university initiatives, contributing to the advancement of academic excellence and the cultivation of a Christ-centered learning environment. Caldwell assists in coordinating high-level projects and analyses that drive the university's mission forward, focusing on developing servant-leaders. The position provides critical support for the President's engagement with undergraduate, graduate, and adult learners, ensuring that institutional strategies effectively serve the diverse student body. Dray Caldwell's work is integral to enhancing the operational effectiveness and strategic direction of Taylor University, reinforcing its commitment to personal growth and community impact.

David VanDyke, Aide To the President at Taylor University, provides direct support to the President in managing daily operations and advancing strategic objectives. This role is critical for ensuring the efficient functioning of the President's office and facilitating the execution of initiatives aligned with the university's Christ-centered mission and commitment to academic excellence. VanDyke manages key administrative tasks, coordinates schedules, and supports communication efforts that uphold Taylor University's dedication to fostering personal growth and developing servant-leaders. The position requires a thorough understanding of the university's educational framework, serving undergraduate, graduate, and adult learners. David VanDyke's contributions are essential for maintaining the momentum of presidential priorities and reinforcing the university's impact within its community and beyond.

Noah Ross, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Taylor University, supports the strategic execution of presidential initiatives and operational directives. This role involves coordinating cross-departmental projects, ensuring alignment with the university's mission of academic excellence and personal growth. Ross manages key administrative functions, facilitating efficient communication and workflow between various university offices. The position requires a deep understanding of the institution's Christ-centered educational philosophy and its commitment to developing servant-leaders. Noah Ross contributes to the smooth operation of the President's office, enhancing the university's capacity to serve its diverse student body across undergraduate, graduate, and online programs. This leadership function is critical for maintaining the university's top-ranked status and its dedication to fostering a vibrant community.

Christopher Jones, the Vice President, Chief of Staff and Chief Information Officer at Taylor University, directs the university's technological infrastructure and strategic operational planning. This dual role encompasses overseeing all information systems, ensuring robust cybersecurity, and driving digital transformation initiatives that support academic and administrative functions. Jones also manages the Chief of Staff's responsibilities, acting as a key liaison between the President's office and other university departments, facilitating strategic decision-making and operational efficiency. The integration of technology with the university's core mission of Christ-centered education is paramount. Christopher Jones ensures that Taylor University's digital platforms effectively serve undergraduate, graduate, and adult learners, including those in flexible online programs. This leadership position is vital for advancing the university's commitment to academic excellence and fostering a dynamic learning environment.

Colby Burke, the Chief People Officer at Taylor University, leads all human resources functions, focusing on talent acquisition, development, and retention to support the university's mission. This executive oversees the cultivation of a positive and productive work environment that aligns with Taylor University's Christ-centered values and commitment to academic excellence. Burke's responsibilities include developing comprehensive HR strategies that attract and retain high-caliber faculty and staff, essential for delivering exceptional educational experiences to undergraduate, graduate, and adult learners. The Chief People Officer ensures that employee programs foster personal growth and align with the university's goal of developing servant-leaders. Colby Burke plays a crucial role in shaping the organizational culture, ensuring that the university community thrives and effectively supports its diverse student population and educational objectives.