Presidential Search
Warner Pacific University (WPU) seeks an experienced, mission-oriented, and relational leader to support WPU’s academic and spiritual goals and guide the institution through its next chapter of impact. The ideal candidate will embody deep Christian faith and will be a scholar-practitioner who pairs forward-looking vision with pragmatic execution. The process will be led by a Search Committee, chaired by Dr. Jay Barber, President Emeritus of WPU, and will involve input from key university stakeholders to ensure a thorough and inclusive process. To assist with this important work, WPU has engaged FaithSearch Partners, a trusted executive search firm with extensive experience in Christian higher education leadership placements.
Search and Process Timeline
(Approximate and subject to change)
| January-February | FaithSearch Partners engaged, Search Committee members selected, input gathered from WPU stakeholders, and candidate profile created |
| February-March | Candidates sourced, and screened by FaithSearch Partners |
| April | Semi-finalists interviewed by the Search Committee |
| April-May | Finalist candidate(s) identified and participate in campus interviews |
| May | Final candidate engaged |
How to Nominate a Candidate
If you would like more information about this opportunity—or if you know individuals who may be qualified for this position—please reach out to FaithSearch Partners. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a current curriculum vitae or résumé to the following:
Jacqueline Gustafson, Vice President
jgustafson@faithsearchpartners.com
Brian Jensen, Senior Vice President
bjensen@faithsearchpartners.com
All inquiries and nominations will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
Current Updates
February 20, 2026
The WPU Board of Trustees has engaged FaithSearch Partners (FSP) in the process of finding a new president. FSP representatives Jacqui Gustafson, Brian Jensen, and Andy Westmoreland listened to more than 40 representatives of the WPU community during two days of campus interviews. They have used the data from these interviews to create a candidate profile to be shared with presidential applicants. WPU is thankful to work with such an excellent partner and for a search process that is characterized by integrity and collaboration.