Wittenberg University’s ongoing presidential search is nearing its final stages as the institution prepares to name its 16th president. The search, which began in late 2024 following the announced departure of President Michael L. Frandsen, has drawn attention from students, faculty, alumni, and higher education observers as the university seeks new leadership to guide it into its next chapter.
Frandsen, who has served since 2017, announced last year that he would step down at the end of the 2024–2025 academic year. His tenure has been marked by both progress and challenges, including navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, expanding academic programs, and addressing financial pressures common to small liberal arts colleges. In March, the Higher Learning Commission designated Wittenberg as being in "financial distress” after U.S. Department of Education auditors “raised substantial doubt about the institution’s ability to continue as a going concern.” The university recorded a $17 million deficit in the 2022-23 school year, according to a recent article in the Springfield News-Sun.
The university formed a Presidential Search Committee in October 2024, composed of trustees, faculty members, staff, alumni, and a student representative. The committee engaged executive search firm Academic Search to assist in identifying and vetting potential candidates. Since then, the process has included a series of listening sessions to gather input from the Wittenberg community about the qualities and priorities they hope to see in the next president.
“We’ve had a strong pool of applicants,” said an anonymous source. “Our goal has been to find someone who not only brings executive leadership experience in higher education, but who also understands and embraces Wittenberg’s mission and values.”
As of this week, the committee has reportedly narrowed the field to three finalists, each of whom has visited the campus over the past month for a series of interviews, town halls, and meet-and-greets with students and faculty. While their identities have not been officially disclosed, community members who participated in the open sessions say the finalists include two sitting college presidents and one provost from a major public university.
Students and faculty have been encouraged to provide feedback through confidential online forms following each candidate’s visit.
According to a university spokesperson, the Board of Directors is expected to make a final decision by early May, with a formal announcement projected before commencement. The new president would officially assume office on July 1, 2025.
The search comes at a pivotal time for Wittenberg, as it struggles to build enrollment, strengthen academic offerings, and improve campus infrastructure. Many on campus hope the new leader will bring fresh energy and innovative ideas to address both longstanding and emerging challenges in higher education.
“We’re looking for a president who can be a builder — someone who’s not just maintaining the status quo but thinking boldly about Wittenberg’s future,” said Education major Hailey Patraikis.
As anticipation builds, the Wittenberg community remains hopeful that the new president will honor the school’s Lutheran liberal arts tradition while steering it confidently into the future.
