MARION, Ind. (July 1, 2025) — Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) has named David H. Davies as its new vice president for academic affairs and chief academic officer, effective August 1. Davies currently serves as provost at Houghton University, a fellow Wesleyan institution in New York.

In his new role, Davies will serve as IWU’s senior academic leader for the main residential campus in Marion, Ind., as well as the chief academic officer in matters related to accreditation. As vice president for academic affairs for the Marion campus, he will be responsible for advancing the university’s academic vision, supporting faculty development, and ensuring that IWU’s educational programs reflect its mission as a Christ-centered institution. His responsibilities include oversight of the registrar’s office, academic compliance and accreditation, library services, faculty research, First Year Experience, the Center for Academic Thriving, and the university’s grants and sponsored programs, among other areas.

“Dr. Davies is well acquainted with senior-level administration within Wesleyan higher education,” said IWU President Jon Kulaga. “He is both an experienced faculty member and a senior leader with experience at multiple universities. We look forward to his creative and energetic leadership as we, Indiana Wesleyan University, become the Christ-centered university of choice for every generation!”

Davies brings over two decades of academic and administrative experience, with leadership roles at public and private institutions. Before joining Houghton, he held academic positions at Texas A&M University-Commerce and Nazareth College, where he led efforts to expand academic programs, grow enrollment, and support faculty development. He has also served as an internationally performing composer and continues to advocate for the integration of faith and the arts.

At Houghton, Davies led the creation of a five-year academic strategic plan, launched new cybersecurity and financial planning programs, and implemented a revised system for academic assessment. He also introduced faculty development initiatives, including the Initiative for Christ-Centered Scholarship and Teaching, which supports the integration of faith and scholarship across disciplines.

Davies holds a Doctor of Musical Arts, a Master of Music in composition from the University of Miami, and a Bachelor of Music in piano performance from Houghton College. He serves on the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities Commission for Chief Academic Officers and previously chaired Region 6 of the National Association of Schools of Music.

Davies and his family have a longstanding relationship with IWU. His daughter recently enrolled as a member of the Class of 2029 in the music therapy program and the John Wesley Honors College.

"I am excited for this opportunity to serve as the next vice president for academic affairs and chief academic officer of Indiana Wesleyan University," Davies said. "IWU has earned a national reputation for academic innovation and excellence, and the institution's array of liberal arts and professional programs is among the most comprehensive in Christian higher education. I'm especially excited by the bold vision and strategic priorities set out in the recent Momentum Plan, and I believe IWU is positioned to serve as a national leader in Christ-centered education in the coming decades. These are exciting times at an exciting place, and I'm eager to see what God has in store."

Davies succeeds Jim Vermilya, who served as interim vice president for academic affairs.

For more information about Indiana Wesleyan University, visit indwes.edu.