About the President Elect
Middendorf earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Trevecca, a master’s degree in professional counseling from Olivet Nazarene University and a doctorate in ethical leadership from Olivet. He returned to Trevecca in 2008 and has served in progressively responsible leadership roles, including associate provost and dean of academic and student affairs, before being named provost in 2019. He oversees academic affairs, marketing, enrollment, student development, and graduate and adult education, and he also serves as a professor of leadership studies.
Middendorf’s connection to Trevecca and the Church of the Nazarene runs deep. A third-generation Treveccan, he follows a family legacy that began with his grandfather, who helped construct buildings on campus as a student; continued through his parents, who met on the Hill; and remains evident in his own journey as a student leader, alumnus, and professional with a deep commitment to Christian higher education. It was also at Trevecca that he met his wife, Jessica (’00). Together, they have built a life centered on faith and family, raising two children, Marley and Asher, while remaining actively engaged in the Church of the Nazarene.
In accepting the role, Middendorf said, “Trevecca is not simply a place where I work. It has shaped my faith, my calling and my family for three generations. I do not view the presidency as an achievement to attain. I view it as a stewardship to receive. My hope is that we leave Trevecca’s mission stronger than we found it and continue preparing students for meaningful work, faithful service and lives of leadership. We are just getting started.”
During his tenure, Middendorf has helped lead record enrollment and retention, the creation of more than 25 new academic programs and the launch of Trevecca’s four-year nursing program. He has also expanded health sciences and built strategic partnerships across Nashville and the region.
Middendorf will succeed Boone, whose 22-year tenure has transformed the University. Under Boone’s leadership, Trevecca grew from approximately 2,000 students to nearly 4,000, expanded its academic offerings to more than 100 programs ranging from associate degrees to doctoral programs and invested more than $250 million in campus construction and renovation.
