Kevin Hughes was appointed dean of the School of Graduate and Professional Studies at Mount Vernon Nazarene University, as current dean Ron Bolender announced his intention to retire from MVNU effective August 31. Bolender is completing a 33-year career with MVNU that includes implementing several successful initiatives, the latest of which involved implementing new processes and programs for GPS.

“I am very grateful for all Ron has done in GPS over these past few months, and I am looking forward to working directly with Kevin as he steps into this new role,” said Barney Cochran, vice president for Academic Affairs and chief academic officer.

Hughes graduated from MVNU in 1987 and has served as an employee at his alma mater since 1988. His first job at MVNU was as an admissions counselor. In 1993, he became assistant director of student financial planning. In 1995, Hughes joined the team that opened the first ever off-site location for MVNU at Polaris Parkway in Columbus. He served as coordinator of financial planning for what was then called the Executive Center for Lifelong Learning Bachelor of Business Administration program.

While in this role, Hughes finished his master’s degree in 1999 and was hired that same year as a full-time faculty member at MVNU, teaching various business management courses. While teaching full time, he completed his Doctor of Philosophy in organizational management from Capella University in 2003. Two years later, Hughes was chosen as program coordinator for the new MBA program at MVNU. In 2008, that role expanded and he became the Graduate Business Department chair in the Jetter School of Business. In 2012, Hughes became associate dean for administration in the Jetter School of Business.

Hughes is currently associate dean of the School of Graduate and Professional Studies at MVNU. He is also active in leadership in the Christian Business Faculty Association, serving as program chair on the MVNU Board of Directors.

He will assume duties as dean September 1.

--Mount Vernon Nazarene University