Warner Pacific University is pleased to announce that Scott Bernard Nelson joined the University on January 21, 2026, as Associate Vice President for Undergraduate Admissions. In this role, Nelson provides strategic leadership for the University’s traditional undergraduate recruitment efforts, overseeing both first-time freshmen and transfer admissions.
Nelson brings extensive experience in higher education leadership and marketing. He joins Warner Pacific from Linfield University, where he served as Chief Marketing Officer and Associate Vice President. During his tenure, he led a full institutional rebrand, authored the University’s strategic plan and comprehensive marketing plan, and served as a member of the president’s leadership team.
“I’m excited to join the team at Warner Pacific,” said Nelson. “I am thankful to have an opportunity to continue helping students improve their lives through education, and I’m especially glad to do it at a small, private university where nobody falls through the cracks and everyone finds the support they need. I can’t think of a better way to spend my life’s energy.”
Prior to his work in higher education, Nelson spent nearly two decades in journalism, with leadership and reporting roles at The Oregonian, The Boston Globe, and The Tampa Tribune. His journalism career included coverage recognized with the 2003 Pulitzer Prize in Public Service, reporting from New York City following the September 11 attacks, and embedded coverage with U.S. Marines during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
“Scott brings strong leadership to undergraduate recruitment and a deep commitment to serving our Christ-centered institution,” said Dr. Darilís García, Vice President for Enrollment Management. “His experience and student-centered approach will strengthen our recruitment efforts and help more students find a place where they are known, supported, and able to succeed at Warner Pacific.”
Nelson holds an MBA from the University of Maryland and a bachelor’s degree from Linfield. He lives in Sherwood, Oregon, and has two adult children.
As Associate Vice President for Undergraduate Admissions, Nelson oversees admissions strategy, team leadership, operational performance, and recruitment outcomes, in support of Warner Pacific’s Christ-centered mission and commitment to student success.