Meet the Chancellor: A Conversation with Dr. Eileen Hulme

By: Bailey Gerber & Jake Hreha

Dr. Eileen Hulme never imagined she’d end up working in higher education – let alone serving as Chancellor of IWU-National & Global. She joined the National & Global leadership team in 2020 as the Vice President for Enterprise Development and Regional Strategy, and she assumed the Chancellor role after Dr. Matt Lucas stepped down in February of 2022.

Higher education institutions can be a great place to work but require the best people who have a strong educational background. Dr. Hulme wasn't sure if this was where she was called to be. Higher education jobs are there to make the university a better place for students and faculty. Working in higher ed can be a great opportunity for those looking to pursue professional growth and support students. Many people say guiding future generations through their degrees is one of the most rewarding aspects of their jobs.

Connecting with students from an executive position can be difficult, but Dr. Hulme’s first passion in her career was empowering students to develop their potential, and that goal remains the same in her administrative roles. We sat down with Dr. Hulme to learn more about what she does as Chancellor and how her vision will impact the University.

Q: Can you share some information about your typical responsibilities as chancellor?

A: My role has a variety of different responsibilities. I serve as the chief administrative officer of National & Global, under the President of the University. Within that role, I oversee and manage the various departments and offices in National & Global and work closely with faculty and staff to identify challenges and solutions. I also serve on IWU’s executive committee which is led by the president and comprised of the executive-level leaders of the seminary, IWU-Marion, and central administration.

Another responsibility that the role carries is to build partnerships in the communities where our regional centers reside. This external aspect of my job focuses on increasing visibility for IWU by working with businesses, non-profits, and school districts across our three-state region.

At the heart of what I do is making N&G an organization focused on student learning, expressing God’s love and care for everyone who attends. I get the privilege to lead an exemplary group of individuals who are committed to putting students first. While most of my work isn't directly involved with student affairs, I know the work I do makes an impact on the student experience at the University.

Q: What brought you to Indiana Wesleyan University?

A: Before coming to IWU, I never considered moving to the Midwest. I didn’t even own a heavy coat. But I knew Matt Lucas well, and he inspired me to come based on all the important work being done through N&G. When the position to facilitate advancement at our regional centers opened, I knew in my spirit that IWU was where God wanted me. Throughout my career, God has opened doors and led me to roles I never expected – and I certainly never expected to become the Chancellor.

Q: As you look to the future, what is your vision for IWU-National & Global?

A: I believe God has a prosperous future for IWU-National & Global. My vision is to seek Him with my whole heart and to listen carefully as He guides our steps. I believe that our best days are ahead of us if we have the courage to make hard decisions, the compassion to care for our students, staff, and faculty well, and the wisdom to understand we will make mistakes and to learn from them.

Q: What do you want students to know about you?

A: In this role, I don’t see students as much as I did when I was a professor, but my door is always open to them. I want their college experience to be life-changing, engaging, and career-building. I need to hear from them to build that future together.

Thank you, Dr. Hulme, for taking the time to sit down with us and share your passion for higher education.

If you are interested in learning more about Indiana Wesleyan University and the programs offered check out the IWU website to learn more. IWU is proud to provide great educational opportunities and provide financial assistance to support students in this educational step on their career path. Whether students pursue advanced degrees or are taking the first step into college, IWU is here to support the next generation in their professional development.

Bailey Gerber

Content Creator, IWU-National and Global

Bailey Gerber is a vocabulary geek and grammar enthusiast at IWU – National and Global, so she spends most of her time writing and reviewing webpages, video scripts, flyers, and – of course – blog articles. She loves all things involving words, and in her spare time you’ll find her buried in a book (probably with a cup of coffee in hand).

Jake Hreha

SEO Copywriter, IWU

Jake Hreha is a graduate of Ball State University, where he majored in advertising with a concentration in media presentation and design. He is passionate about design, and in his free time he enjoys cycling, traveling, and reading.