Presidential search

Messiah's presidential search moves to next phase

Dec. 15, 2025--Messiah University’s Board of Trustees has taken an important next step in the search for the University’s ninth president—partnering with DSG Storbeck, a nationally recognized leader in executive search, to help identify and recruit exceptional candidates who will lead Messiah into its next season of growth and mission impact. Together, we have refreshed the comprehensive presidential profile that integrates the campus feedback  gathered last fall and reflects the mission, values and strategic priorities of our institution.

With these foundational steps completed, the presidential search has now officially launched. DSG Storbeck began nationally advertising the position last week in higher education and other faith-based media, and has begun actively identifying and cultivating qualified prospects who align with the needs and aspirations of the University.

Members of the Messiah community are invited to provide input into the search or suggest/nominate candidates to the search firm via email at messiahpresident@dsgco.com.

Search overview

• When President Kim S. Phipps announced her plans to retire at the end of the 2024-25 academic year, the Messiah University Board of Trustees announced the start of a comprehensive national search for the university's ninth president.
• The board launched an initial search in August 2024, which concluded in March 2025, resulting in the board's appointment of Dr. Jon C. Stuckey as interim president in April 2025.
• On Oct. 27, 2025, the board announced that it was proceeding with a new presidential search as a top priority for the institution. 

With the launch of this new search, we invite members of the campus and surrounding communities to use the resources found on this website to be fully engaged and to stay informed as this important national search progresses.

Ways to pray for us

• Please pray for God's leading, wisdom and discernment for Messiah's board of trustees as they make decisions related to the next steps in the ongoing search process for Messiah's ninth president.
• We also invite you to pray for Messiah's interim president, Dr. Jon Stuckey, as he faithfully leads Messiah University through this important time of transition and continues to advance Messiah's distinctive Christ-centered educational mission.