BLUFFTON, Ohio (WLIO) — Bluffton University officially welcomed its 11th president in its 125-year history Thursday afternoon.
Dr. J. Alexander Sider has been serving as interim president since February, following Dr. Jane Wood, who led Bluffton University for seven years. He has been with the university since 2006 and has held several roles, including professor of religion and vice president of academic affairs. President Sider says he has a clear vision for the university's future.
“When we think about our mission for Bluffton University, we are talking about educating students of all backgrounds. We’re talking about educating them for life as well as vocation — for responsible citizenship, which is super important in society and culture today. For service to all people. We emphasize, especially to students, that when they receive the privilege of higher education, they have a responsibility to pay that forward,” said Sider.
Sider’s appointment comes after a period of transition for the university, but staff say his steady leadership over the years will bring a new direction to campus.
