William Carey University Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

William Carey University has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, and academic administration.

Dedicated to fostering academic and leadership potential, William Carey University prioritizes scholarship and service within the global community while supporting students through significant institutional transitions.

Leadership Roles at William Carey University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Craig Carey
  • President - W. Rivers
  • President - I.E. Rouse
  • President - Tommy King
  • President - J. Noonkester
  • President - W. Holcomb
  • President - Benjamin Burnett
  • Chief Information Officer - Jeffrey Andrews
  • Craig Carey - Chief Executive Officer

    Craig Carey, the Chief Executive Officer at William Carey University, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional growth. Overseeing the transition to a semester-based calendar, the Chief Executive Officer ensures operational readiness for the upcoming academic cycle. This leadership role involves managing complex university resources to maintain high standards in osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, and nursing programs. By aligning administrative goals with the mission of fostering student potential, Craig Carey directly impacts the long-term sustainability of the institution. The Chief Executive Officer collaborates with the board to secure financial health while expanding the reach of educational offerings. Through rigorous oversight of university-wide initiatives, Carey secures the future of the institution as a premier Christian learning environment. This executive leadership ensures that every department remains focused on academic excellence and positive societal impact across the global community.

    W. Rivers - President

    W. Rivers, the President at William Carey University, oversees the academic integrity and faculty development within the undergraduate division. Managing the curriculum standards for liberal arts and sciences, the President ensures alignment with the university's mission of fostering leadership potential. This role involves guiding department chairs through the transition to a semester-based calendar while maintaining rigorous scholarship expectations. By promoting a culture of service and academic inquiry, W. Rivers directly influences the quality of education provided to traditional and international students. The President collaborates with other executive leaders to refine the university's pedagogical approach in the face of evolving global educational demands. Through consistent engagement with the faculty senate, Rivers maintains high morale and academic focus. This leadership position remains central to the university's reputation for excellence in preparing students for professional success in diverse fields.

    I.E. Rouse - President

    I.E. Rouse, the President at William Carey University, directs the expansion and operational success of the graduate education programs. Overseeing the growth of advanced degrees in education and professional studies, the President ensures that curriculum offerings meet the needs of the modern workforce. This role involves managing partnerships with regional healthcare providers to support the clinical training requirements of graduate students. By fostering an environment of research and professional development, I.E. Rouse directly contributes to the university's impact on the global community. The President works closely with the admissions team to attract high-caliber candidates for advanced study. Through strategic planning, Rouse secures the resources necessary for maintaining state-of-the-art facilities. This leadership role focuses on the long-term viability of graduate programs, ensuring that the university remains a leader in preparing students for complex professional roles.

    Tommy King - President

    Tommy King, the President at William Carey University, manages the institutional advancement and external relations strategy. Overseeing fundraising initiatives and alumni engagement, the President ensures the university maintains strong connections with the broader community. This role involves communicating the university's mission to donors and stakeholders to secure the funding required for campus improvements and scholarship programs. By building relationships with regional leaders, Tommy King directly supports the university's growth and visibility. The President coordinates with the development office to execute capital campaigns that align with the institution's long-term goals. Through effective advocacy, King strengthens the university's position as a pillar of Christian education. This leadership role requires balancing the needs of current students with the long-term vision of the institution, ensuring that the university continues to thrive as a center for academic and personal growth.

    J. Noonkester - President

    J. Noonkester, the President at William Carey University, leads the strategic initiatives focused on student life and campus culture. Overseeing the integration of Christian values into the daily student experience, the President ensures that the university remains true to its foundational mission. This role involves managing student services and extracurricular programs that foster personal growth and community building. By creating a supportive environment for both traditional and international students, J. Noonkester directly impacts student retention and satisfaction. The President collaborates with the dean of students to address the needs of the campus population during the transition to a new academic calendar. Through active participation in campus events, Noonkester promotes a sense of belonging and purpose. This leadership role is essential for maintaining the unique character of the university as it prepares students for meaningful lives of service.

    W. Holcomb - President

    W. Holcomb, the President at William Carey University, directs the operational efficiency and facilities management across all campus locations. Overseeing the maintenance and development of physical infrastructure, the President ensures that learning environments meet the needs of modern academic programs. This role involves managing capital projects and ensuring that all facilities comply with safety and accessibility standards. By optimizing the use of campus space, W. Holcomb directly supports the university's ability to accommodate a diverse range of programs, including osteopathic medicine and nursing. The President works with the operations team to streamline logistics during the transition to a semester-based calendar. Through careful budget management, Holcomb ensures that physical resources are allocated effectively to support the university's mission. This leadership role provides the foundation for all academic and extracurricular activities, ensuring a safe and productive environment for the entire community.

    Benjamin Burnett - President

    Benjamin Burnett, the President at William Carey University, leads the strategic planning for international partnerships and global outreach. Overseeing the recruitment and support of international students, the President ensures that the university remains a welcoming destination for scholars from around the world. This role involves developing exchange programs and collaborative research opportunities that enhance the university's global footprint. By fostering cross-cultural understanding, Benjamin Burnett directly contributes to the university's goal of making a positive societal impact. The President works with the admissions and international student services offices to ensure a smooth transition for students arriving from abroad. Through strategic alliances with global institutions, Burnett expands the reach of the university's educational programs. This leadership role focuses on diversifying the student body and enriching the academic environment with a global perspective, ensuring that the university remains relevant in an interconnected world.

    Jeffrey Andrews - Chief Information Officer

    Jeffrey Andrews, the Chief Information Officer at William Carey University, architects the digital infrastructure supporting modern academic delivery. Managing the integration of advanced learning management systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity for students and faculty across all campuses. This role involves protecting sensitive institutional data while optimizing network performance for research-heavy departments like pharmacy and nursing. By implementing scalable technology solutions, Jeffrey Andrews directly supports the university's shift toward more efficient administrative processes. The Chief Information Officer coordinates with academic leadership to provide robust digital tools that enhance the student experience. Through constant monitoring of cybersecurity protocols, Andrews maintains the integrity of the university's information assets. This technical leadership drives the digital transformation necessary for maintaining a competitive edge in higher education while facilitating the transition to new academic calendars.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding William Carey University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads William Carey University?
    William Carey University is led by Craig Carey (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as W. Rivers (President) and I.E. Rouse (President).
    Who is part of William Carey University’s executive team?
    The executive team of William Carey University includes leaders such as Craig Carey (Chief Executive Officer), W. Rivers (President), I.E. Rouse (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does William Carey University have?
    William Carey University has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in William Carey University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of William Carey University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President, President, President, President.