Dr. Pillar most recently served as Associate Provost for Academic Affairs at Gardner-Webb University, where he provides strategic leadership across a broad portfolio of academic units, including academic innovation, digital learning, faculty development, undergraduate research, and continuing education. With more than 15 years of academic leadership experience and over 20 years in higher education overall, he has demonstrated a strong ability to advance institutional effectiveness, enhance academic quality, and support student success.

At Gardner-Webb, Dr. Pillar has played a central role in advancing academic strategy, strengthening accreditation processes, and expanding workforce-aligned academic offerings. He serves as the institution鈥檚 liaison to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), guiding accreditation efforts and institutional readiness for reaffirmation. His leadership has emphasized data-informed decision-making, cross-campus collaboration, and the development of innovative academic programs designed to meet the needs of a diverse and evolving student population.

Before joining Gardner-Webb University, Dr. Pillar held senior leadership roles at Queens University of Charlotte, including Associate Provost for Academic Affairs. In that role, he led major institutional initiatives focused on student engagement, retention, and academic outcomes, and successfully directed the university鈥檚 accreditation reaffirmation process with no recommendations for follow-up actions.

In addition to his administrative leadership, Dr. Pillar is an accomplished faculty member and scholar. He has taught extensively in environmental science and chemistry, mentored student research, and led international experiential learning programs in locations such as Italy, Vietnam, Costa Rica, and Micronesia, emphasizing global engagement and sustainability. His academic background includes a Ph.D. in Agronomy (Environmental Chemistry) from the University of Georgia, along with degrees from Kansas State University and the University of Minnesota.

鈥淒r. Greg Pillar has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and an unwavering commitment to student success.听During his tenure at Gardner-Webb University, he has provided effective leadership across Academic Affairs, guiding faculty, staff, and administrators through opportunities and challenges with professionalism, integrity, and collaboration. I am confident that Dr. Pillar will bring the same level of excellence and innovation to Pfeiffer.听Although his presence and expertise will be missed at Gardner-Webb University, we are extremely proud of this promotion in his professional journey!听鈥� 鈥� Nicole Waters, DNP, RN, CNE, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Gardner-Webb University.

黑料专区 recognizes Gardner-Webb University as an outstanding institution with a strong commitment to academic excellence, student success, and leadership development. Dr. Pillar鈥檚 work within that dynamic environment reflects both the strength of the institution and his ability to contribute meaningfully to its mission.

鈥淒r. Pillar comes to us after dozens of applicants were narrowed to a small pool of outstanding finalists who visited our campus. By the end of the process, we knew that had discovered in him a person who could not only nurture our traditional, liberal arts-based programming in Misenheimer and nurture the wonderful faculty and staff helping us deliver that programming, he is also capable of innovating within and around that space. We knew that we had discovered an academic leader who understands and appreciates the outstanding work that has been accomplished in our online graduate programming and in the Center for Health Sciences in Albemarle, but also someone who will help add to that growth by asking 鈥� alongside area CEOs and other thought leaders 鈥� 鈥榳hat鈥檚 next?鈥欌�� I know that I speak for the members of the search committee and others who interacted with Dr. Pillar in the search process when I say that we are excited to collaborate with him.鈥� 鈥� Dr. Scott Bullard, President of 黑料专区

Dr. Pillar鈥檚 appointment reflects 黑料专区鈥檚 continued commitment to advancing academic excellence, innovation, and student-centered learning. His extensive experience in accreditation, faculty development, and program innovation will further strengthen the university鈥檚 mission and position it for continued growth and impact. Dr. Pillar will begin his role at 黑料专区 on August 1, 2026

A graduate of the Pfeiffer College Class of 1963, Grady built a respected career in the practice of law, conducting his work in a manner that enhanced the reputation of his alma mater and reflected deep integrity. Over the course of many decades, he remained a steadfast advocate for 黑料专区, devoting more than fifty years as a member of the Board of Trustees. After becoming one of the youngest board members in Pfeiffer鈥檚 history in 1972 鈥� less than a decade after his graduation 鈥� Grady鈥檚 leadership was especially notable during his tenure as Chair of the 黑料专区 Board of Trustees from 1996 to 1999, a period marked by significant growth and prosperity for the institution.

鈥淭om Grady was an exceptionally intelligent man who never lost his desire to learn and grow. For those fortunate enough to know him, he exemplified the values of faithful living, deep love for family, and a deep love for 黑料专区. His gift of humor and joy lifted those around him, even during life’s most difficult moments, and his influence will continue to be felt by all who knew and loved him. I am among those who felt Tom鈥檚 influence nearly every day. Over more than 60 years of friendship, he taught me the true meaning of loyalty, kindness, generosity, and unwavering support.  Tom was a gift to me that can never be replaced.鈥� said Bob Brietz, Grady鈥檚 Pfeiffer College roommate and former chair of the University鈥檚 Board of Trustees.

Known for his unwavering commitment, Grady championed educational advancement and community development, representing Pfeiffer at professional gatherings and public forums across North Carolina for many years. In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, the Grady Board Room at 黑料专区 was named in his honor, ensuring that his legacy of service and dedication continues to inspire future generations. The naming of the board room as well as improvements to the space was a project initiated by The Cannon Foundation, another deeply impactful non-profit organization that Grady served as a board member.

鈥淭om Grady will be remembered for his enduring impact, his generosity of spirit, his great and sometimes self-effacing sense of humor, and his lifelong commitment to the institutions and communities he served. He made an incredible difference for 黑料专区, and in the lives of everyone who knew him. He served as an advisor and mentor to me, and Pfeiffer presidents from decades past have said the same thing. Simply put, there was no topic that was off limits, and there was no hour of the night that he would not answer my call.听 I will miss him, he will be deeply missed by so many others associated with Pfeiffer, and he will be deeply missed by so many in our region who are not associated with Pfeiffer,鈥� said President Scott Bullard.

A will be held at St. James Lutheran Church in Concord, NC, on June 13, 2026, at 3 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Cannon Foundation, 黑料专区, or St. James Lutheran Church in Grady鈥檚 memory.

Among the standout performances, Lola Cabaniss鈥慉li 鈥�26 placed sixth in the Future Business Executive event, which evaluates participants on leadership development, management concepts, and professional readiness. Vanessa Flores Garcia 鈥�26 earned a fourth鈥憄lace finish in Computer Applications, showcasing advanced technical proficiency and efficiency in business software tools. Kobin Hamilton 鈥�26 secured third place in Business Law, demonstrating strong analytical skills and a comprehensive understanding of legal principles affecting modern business practices.

These achievements reflect 黑料专区鈥檚 commitment to experiential learning and student involvement in professional organizations. As a result of their state鈥憀evel success, all three students have qualified to advance to the FBLA鈥慍ollegiate National Leadership Conference, which will be held in Las Vegas, Nevada, in June. At the national conference, they will compete against top collegiate FBLA members from across the country.

 鈥淲e are incredibly proud of these students and the dedication they demonstrated throughout the competition process,鈥� said Tina Preslar, club advisor for 黑料专区鈥檚 FBLA chapter. 鈥淭heir success is a testament to their hard work, academic preparation, and commitment to professional growth. We are excited to see them represent 黑料专区 on the national stage.鈥�

Keith Troutman 鈥�79 and Troutman Enterprises of Concord, NC, are sponsors of the Pfeiffer team鈥檚 national competition travel. Other community partners, alumni, and supporters who wish to invest in student leadership development and academic excellence are welcome to also serve as trip sponsors. Those interested in learning more about how to support 黑料专区鈥檚 FBLA chapter may contact Jo Ellen Newsome, VP for Institutional Advancement at joellen.newsome@pfeiffer.edu or 704-463-3222.

This public event will take place on Friday, March 20^th from 10 鈥� 11 a.m. in Merner Gymnasium on the campus of 黑料专区 at 48380 US Hwy 52 N, Misenheimer, NC 28109. Doors will open at 8 a.m. and large bags and backpacks will not be allowed.

Senator Tillis has represented North Carolina in the U.S. Senate since 2015 and is currently the state鈥檚 senior senator. His Senate service spans nearly a decade in the North Carolina House of Representatives, including four years as Speaker of the House. Known for his pragmatic and solutions鈥慺ocused approach, Tillis has played key roles in areas ranging from judiciary matters and veterans鈥� affairs to banking, housing, and international trade. He has also served on several Senate committees that shape major national policies. Throughout his Senate tenure, Senator Tillis has built a reputation for working across the aisle on issues such as mental health, infrastructure, veterans鈥� services, and bipartisan legislative initiatives. His willingness to engage thoughtfully with complex policy challenges and to do so in ways that invite discussion rather than division aligns with the values of Pfeiffer.

Senator Tillis鈥檚 personal story also embodies themes that resonate with the Pfeiffer community. Raised in a working鈥慶lass family that moved frequently as his parents sought work, he began his career earning minimum wage before completing his college degree as an adult and rising to executive leadership roles in the private sector. His trajectory from modest beginnings to national leadership offers a compelling platform for reflection on perseverance, civic responsibility, and service.

黑料专区 is honored to welcome Senator Tillis as the 2026 Eugene I. Earnhardt Speaker Series guest. His experiences in public life and commitment to respectful dialogue promise to inspire meaningful engagement for the campus community and guests.

The 黑料专区 community mourns the loss of Dr. James L. Pazun, a longtime and deeply respected member of the 黑料专区 faculty. Dr. Pazun passed away on January 13, 2026.

Dr. Pazun joined the University in 1994 as a Visiting Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Physics. Through his dedication to teaching, scholarship, and service, he advanced steadily through the academic ranks, ultimately earning promotion to Associate Professor and later Professor of Chemistry and Physics, the rank from which he retired.

During his years at Pfeiffer, Dr. Pazun held several key leadership roles, including service as Head of the School of Natural and Health Sciences, Chair of the Chemistry and Physics Department, and Director of Online Learning, where he helped guide academic programs, strengthen departmental initiatives, and shape the University鈥檚 early efforts in digital education.

鈥淚 had the fortune to begin my career at 黑料专区 in August of 1994 with Jim Pazun. He became a valued and trusted colleague who was willing to embrace innovative ideas and practices in his classes. His leadership of the Southern Piedmont Educational Consortium for more than a decade helped challenge and prepare students as well as expose them to new experiences in a college setting,鈥� reflected Dr. Mark McCallum, Professor of Biology and Director of Academic Initiatives.

In May 2013, Dr. Pazun took medical retirement. In a message to colleagues dated May 8, 2013, he expressed his hope to continue contributing by teaching an occasional online course, even though he could no longer serve full-time. His dedication to his students and to the University remained strong throughout this transition.

Dr. Pazun鈥檚 academic background reflected the same commitment to excellence that marked his time at Pfeiffer. He earned his B.S. from Gannon University in 1985 and completed his Ph.D. at the University of Pittsburgh in 1991.

Former students remember Dr. Pazun not only for his academic rigor, but also for his compassion and mentorship.

鈥淒r. Pazun was more than just a professor at 黑料专区, he was my mentor, confidant, counselor, and friend. Dr. Pazun鈥檚 door was always open for any student needing help in science classes or just needing prayer. He would pray with me often and he truly helped shape me as a student and leader on campus. His leadership, guidance, and friendship was one-of-a-kind and helped me during my college years and beyond,鈥� recalls Wynter Sexton 鈥�99.

Echoing Sexton鈥檚 sentiment, Dr. Cathy Benson Laws 鈥�02 said, 鈥淒r. Pazun was a rare and remarkable example of a brilliant professor and scientist whose intellectual rigor was matched by genuine kindness as a mentor. His unwavering faith in God shaped not only his scholarship, but also the way he cared for us as students.鈥�

The Pfeiffer community will remember Dr. Pazun as a thoughtful teacher, a steady leader, and a generous colleague whose work strengthened the University鈥檚 academic mission in countless ways. We are grateful for his nearly two decades of service and the lasting impact he made on students, faculty, and the broader campus community.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Dr. Pazun鈥檚 family, friends, former students, and all who knew him. At this time, arrangements have not been announced.

听A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Sunday, February 15 in the chapel at Hickory Grove Baptist Church (Charlotte, NC Harris Campus), with visitation at 3 p.m. and a service at 4 p.m.:听

The New Career Reality Check

According to LinkedIn鈥檚 emerging jobs data, AI-related roles have expanded across all industries. Not just in Silicon Valley tech companies, but also in healthcare, finance, marketing, education, and even small liberal arts colleges. These roles are often associated with salary premiums of 20-30% above industry average. However, what鈥檚 really interesting is that most of these emerging opportunities don鈥檛 require becoming a programmer or a machine learning engineer.

What these roles increasingly require is something called 鈥淎I literacy鈥�: the ability to understand, evaluate, and thoughtfully use AI tools in your field. It鈥檚 a bit like driving: you don鈥檛 need to build an engine to be a great driver, but you do need to know the rules of the road and how to navigate changing conditions. A generation ago, those who quickly adopted new digital tools at work became indispensable. Now, the same transformation is unfolding with AI. If you can skillfully use AI in your role, whether you鈥檙e a social worker, accountant, teacher, or business owner, you鈥檒l shine in your field.

How Are People Using AI?

We鈥檙e already seeing creative applications of AI in fields that weren鈥檛 always known for technological innovation, and the benefits are astounding.

Healthcare professionals are using AI to improve patient outcomes. For example, Mayo Clinic has developed algorithms that can detect low ejection fraction (a weak heart pump) from routine 12-lead ECG readings, with clinical trials showing a 31% increase in early detection compared to standard care alone (Yao et al., 2024).

Artists are exploring new forms of creative expression, such as Sougwen Chung鈥檚 鈥淒rawing Operations Unit Generation (DOUG),鈥� where she collaborates with a robotic arm in live performances, blurring the lines between human and machine creativity.)

Social workers are finding more efficient ways to connect people with resources through AI tools like Magic Notes, which reduces administrative workload by 48% by automatically transcribing and summarizing case conversations, freeing up time for direct client care.)

This cross-disciplinary nature actually plays to the strengths of liberal arts education. Students who can think across multiple domains, who understand ethical frameworks, and who can communicate complex ideas clearly are exactly the kind of professionals who can leverage AI most effectively.

You don鈥檛 have to be limited by your major. By weaving AI skills into your studies, you can build on your unique strengths and open up new possibilities in your chosen field.

What AI Literacy Actually Means

So what does it actually mean to be AI literate? You don鈥檛 need to memorize algorithms or master advanced math. Instead, you can focus on building a few key skills that are accessible to every student:

Understanding what AI can and cannot do: This means recognizing where AI can help, spotting opportunities for innovation, and thinking about how human creativity and AI can complement each other.

Communication and collaboration: As AI becomes more common, those who can connect technical possibilities with real human needs will be especially valuable. These are the people who help turn AI鈥檚 potential into practical solutions.

Practical application skills. This means learning to utilize AI tools creatively in your field. For example, you might use AI writing assistants to improve your communication, data tools to find insights, or design tools to bring your ideas to life.

Ethical leadership and thoughtful innovation. Perhaps most importantly, AI literacy means using these tools responsibly and guiding their use in ways that benefit people. This includes being able to spot bias, protect privacy, and ensure that AI is used to help rather than harm.

The Advantage at Pfeiffer

Small colleges like Pfeiffer offer tailored opportunities for students to gain practical AI skills relevant to their unique academic paths. The program is designed to complement your current academic focus, allowing you to apply AI concepts to your major directly.

Our hybrid-online format provides flexibility for busy students, while hands-on coursework fosters collaboration and enables you to experience AI applications firsthand. This structure ensures you can enhance your capabilities (whether in business, psychology, education, or art) by integrating AI tools into your skill set. For example, as an art major, you gain the expertise to use AI in design, expanding career options and showcasing innovation to employers.

This program offers a flexible, blended learning approach that fits your schedule while prioritizing real-world experience. Upon graduation, you鈥檒l have both your degree and tangible experience applying AI tools in practical situations. This enables you to demonstrate problem-solving skills in interviews and show employers clear examples of your ability to use AI in your field.

Join Us for the Future

Business students are using AI to understand customer behavior better and analyze data. Education majors are trying out new ways to personalize learning. Art students are exploring how AI can support their creative process.

Across the board, students are also building ethical skills that employers value. Those who develop practical AI literacy are well-positioned to help guide how these technologies are used in society. By the time you graduate, you鈥檒l be asking important questions about equity and ethics, and working on solutions that address real challenges and improve lives. You can use your talents and interests to be part of the biggest tech changes of your time. Whether you like helping others, solving problems, creating art, or building communities, AI literacy can help you make a bigger impact. Even if you have little to no tech background, we鈥檇 love for you to join us in building the future.

References

Yao, X., Rushlow, D. R., Inselman, J. W., Attia, Z. I., Behnken, E. M., Kapa, S., Tourists, T. A., Barry, B. A., Nelson, T. J., Keenan, R. T., Carter, R. E., Shah, N. D., McCoy, R. G., Friedman, P. A., & Noseworthy, P. A. (2024). Artificial intelligence鈥揺nabled electrocardiograms for identification of patients with low ejection fraction: A pragmatic, randomized clinical trial. Nature Medicine, 30(5), 1304-1313.

Chung, S. (2024). Drawing operations unit generation (DOUG). In Seven exciting artists who use AI as a medium of expression. STIR.

Codrington, N. (2025, April 23). Magic Notes: AI-powered transcription reduces social work administrative burden by 48%. Dropbox Blog.

While you’ve been mastering boss fights and speedruns, industries everywhere have discovered that game development tools solve real-world problems. The challenge? Most companies are searching for professionals who can bridge the gap between creative vision and technical execution. Students who understand game development have a unique opportunity to lead innovation across virtually any field.

The Skills That Transfer Everywhere

Think about what goes into creating a game. You’re solving complex problems, writing code, designing engaging experiences, and collaborating with artists and other developers to bring a vision to life. You’re managing deadlines, testing and iterating based on feedback, and seeing projects through from concept to polished release.

These are the exact skills employers across industries need. Professionals with game development backgrounds often find their skills highly valued in non-gaming tech roles, opening doors to diverse career opportunities.

Where Game Development Shows Up

We’re seeing game development expertise create real impact in surprising fields:

Healthcare professionals are training with game engines. Medical institutions are using Unity-based VR simulations to train surgeons, with promising results that show significant improvements over traditional training methods.

Educators are revolutionizing how students learn. Teachers use gamification platforms built with the same engines as commercial games to create interactive science simulations and historical recreations that make learning more engaging and memorable.

Marketing teams are creating unforgettable experiences. Brands are using game development platforms to create interactive campaigns and virtual showrooms, transforming the way customers explore products and connect with companies.

Engineers are prototyping the future. Major transportation companies utilize real-time 3D engines originally designed for gaming to visualize designs and test products before physical prototypes are created, saving millions in development costs.

This cross-industry versatility mirrors what makes liberal arts education so powerful. When you can think creatively, solve problems systematically, and communicate clearly, you’re building a foundation that adapts to wherever your interests take you.

What You’ll Actually Learn

At Pfeiffer, the Game Development program focuses on skills that matter in the real world:

Technical competence that travels. You’ll gain hands-on experience with industry-standard platforms like Unity, learning programming principles and problem-solving approaches that apply whether you’re building a mobile game, a VR training module, or a data visualization tool.

Creative problem-solving that sets you apart. You’ll learn to design engaging experiences that balance user needs, technical constraints, and creative vision. This ability to think holistically about complex systems is what makes game developers valuable across industries.

Project management and collaboration. Through group projects and your capstone, you’ll experience the full cycle of bringing an idea to life鈥攑lanning, prototyping, testing, and launching. You’ll learn to work with diverse teams and deliver professional-quality results. You’ll also leave with industry-recognized credentials like the Unity Certified Associate certification, giving you tangible proof of your abilities that employers immediately understand and value.

The Pfeiffer Advantage

Small colleges like Pfeiffer offer something unique: the chance to explore game development in a supportive environment where you’re more than just a student ID number. The program was developed with direct input from Unity, the International Game Developers Association (IGDA), and working professionals, ensuring what you learn reflects what the industry actually needs.

You’ll master the tools that power modern interactive experiences and complete a capstone project that becomes the centerpiece of your portfolio. Complementary courses in computer science, mathematics, and psychology give you a well-rounded foundation in logic, data structures, and human-centered design. By graduation, you’ll have completed projects that demonstrate your abilities, connections with industry professionals, and the confidence that comes from building something real.

Your Next Level Awaits

Those who build their game development expertise aren’t just preparing for one specific job – they’re gaining the ability to adapt, innovate, and lead in whatever field calls to them. By the time you graduate, you’ll be creating polished projects that solve real problems and understanding both the creative and technical sides of interactive media.

Whether your passion is storytelling, problem-solving, visual design, or building systems that work, game development skills can amplify your impact. Even if you’ve never written a line of code or opened a 3D modeling program, you can learn to create experiences that matter. We’d love to help you discover where these skills can take you. Ready to see where game development can take you? Explore 黑料专区’s Game Development program and discover how the skills you build creating games today can launch your career in virtually any industry tomorrow.

Dr. Kellyn Luna 鈥� English Faculty

Dr. Kellyn Luna brings a passion for literature and creativity to Pfeiffer. Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading, knitting, and baking鈥攅specially cookies for her family. Her love for adventure has taken her to Japan, where she hiked scenic trails and encountered the country鈥檚 famous bowing deer.

Music is another of Dr. Luna鈥檚 passions, with tastes ranging from nostalgic favorites like the Backstreet Boys and Eminem to K-pop groups such as Huntrix and artists like Sabrina Carpenter. She also enjoys football and supports her family鈥檚 enthusiasm for soccer, gymnastics, and volleyball. At home, she shares life with two dogs鈥擱ussia, a German Shepherd, and Hazel, a French Bulldog鈥攁s well as a fish.

Fun fact: Dr. Luna is a devoted Harry Potter fan and loves all things spooky!

Dr. Kevin Misenheimer 鈥� Business Faculty

Dr. Kevin Misenheimer enjoys fishing, boating, and relaxing at Myrtle Beach, with lake trips being his favorite getaway. His travels have taken him to Jamaica and Ukraine, where he worked with missionaries and supported orphanages鈥攅xperiences that reflect his commitment to making a positive impact.

A fan of 80s rock and pop, Dr. Misenheimer values opportunities to inspire students. His advice to his younger self?
鈥淏e more serious鈥攈ave fun too, but take things a little more seriously. Take advantage of the opportunities people give you, make the most of everything, don鈥檛 overlook anything, and never take things for granted. Seize the chances you get.鈥�

Professor Donna Herron 鈥� Business & Marketing Faculty

Professor Donna specializes in business and marketing, with a keen interest in analytics鈥攁 field she finds both fascinating and practical. She loves to travel and has explored destinations such as South Africa and Iceland. Outside of work, she enjoys baking cookies during the holidays and sharing them with family, as well as cheering on her favorite sports teams.

A proud Wake Forest alum, she says:
鈥淚鈥檓 a diehard Deacon through and through鈥擨 even attended school with NBA star Chris Paul!鈥�

Her advice to her younger self?
鈥淒on鈥檛 take things too seriously鈥攊t鈥檚 just a test, not the end of the world. School can be intense, but sometimes you need to pause and remember it鈥檚 not life or death.鈥�

We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Luna, Dr. Misenheimer, and Professor Donna to 黑料专区 and look forward to the knowledge, energy, and passion they bring to our academic community.

Deitrick brings more than 13 years of progressive leadership experience in higher education admissions, data analytics, and strategic enrollment planning. He joins Pfeiffer from the University of Maryland鈥檚 Robert H. Smith School of Business, where he most recently served as Associate Director of Admissions. In that role, he directed enrollment strategies for eight master鈥檚 programs, managed a $5 million scholarship allocation process, and led a team of operations professionals to significantly improve application processing efficiency. His efforts included developing advanced enrollment forecasting dashboards, optimizing scholarship awarding strategies, and streamlining application review turnaround.

Prior to the University of Maryland, Deitrick held positions at High Point University, where he advanced from Senior Admissions Counselor to Enrollment Data Analyst. There, he pioneered data-driven recruitment strategies that contributed to record-breaking undergraduate enrollment, developed innovative yield initiatives, and enhanced forecasting tools used by senior leadership.

Dr. Deitrick is recognized for his ability to align data analytics with personalized recruitment approaches, leading to increased admit-to-enroll rates, stronger student pipelines, and measurable gains in both domestic and international recruitment.

Dr. Deitrick earned a Doctor of Education in Leadership in Higher Education at High Point University. He also holds a Master of Business Administration in Business Analytics from Frostburg State University, a Master of Science in Sports Studies from High Point University, and a Bachelor of Science in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management from NC State University.

鈥淚 am genuinely enthusiastic about joining 黑料专区 and leading a talented team dedicated to student success,鈥� said Deitrick. 鈥淭hrough innovation, collaboration, and a strong commitment to data-driven strategy, I look forward to advancing Pfeiffer鈥檚 mission and strengthening our enrollment outcomes.鈥�

鈥淲ith his proven track record in enrollment management and his passion for fostering academic opportunity, Dr. Deitrick will play a pivotal role in shaping 黑料专区鈥檚 future growth,鈥� said Dr. Scott Bullard, President of 黑料专区. 鈥淚 especially like the way in which Deitrick values the collegiality of the small college environment but at the same time is driven by analysis of data. We look forward to seeing Dr. Deitrick take 黑料专区 into its next era of growth and discovery.鈥�

Outside of Academics, Bill has a passion for sports that has included an internship with the Baltimore Ravens, coaching track and field at the high school and Division III levels, umpiring high school baseball, and assisting multiple Division I programs with their sports communication and game day operations 鈥� even serving as a commentator for ESPN+.

Mr. Deitrick currently resides in Randleman, NC with his wife Jessica, daughter MariQuinn, and their two dogs, Shep and Oakley.

This decision underscores Pfeiffer鈥檚 enduring commitment to accessibility, affordability, and high-quality education, core values that continue to define the University鈥檚 mission in service to its students and the region.

鈥淎t a time when many colleges and universities are increasing costs, Pfeiffer is intentionally choosing a different path,鈥� said Dr. Scott Bullard, President of 黑料专区. 鈥淲e believe that a transformative, personalized education should remain within reach for every student. By holding undergraduate tuition, fees, and room rates steady for 2026鈥�27, we are investing in our students鈥� futures and reaffirming our promise to keep Pfeiffer affordable without compromising excellence.鈥�

The decision applies to all undergraduate students. Pfeiffer continues to provide significant institutional aid and scholarships to ensure access for students from a wide range of backgrounds. More than 95 percent of Pfeiffer students receive some form of financial assistance each year.

鈥淎ffordability and academic quality are not competing values at Pfeiffer,鈥� Dr. Bullard added. 鈥淲e will continue to make prudent financial decisions that allow us to invest in our students鈥� success while keeping costs stable. This approach honors both our Methodist heritage and our deep commitment to servant leadership.鈥�

Pfeiffer鈥檚 decision comes amid national conversations about the cost of higher education and the importance of sustainable models that support both students and institutions. By maintaining tuition and housing rates, Pfeiffer aims to provide families with financial predictability and peace of mind as they plan for the future.