Former Vincennes President Takes Interim Job

Helton became Vincennes University president in 2004.

A college in Ohio has named former Vincennes University President Dick Helton interim president. Wittenberg University says Helton could serve in the role for at least 12-18 months as the board of directors conducts a search for a full-time president. Laurie Joyner announced her resignation from the position in November after three years on the job.

Helton left VU at the end of July after leading Indiana’s first college for 11 years. He will begin at Wittenberg next week.

Wittenberg Board Chair Thomas Murray says "throughout his career, Dr. Helton has consistently proved to be a transformational leader of exceptional vision and accomplishment. We are thrilled that he has agreed to serve in this capacity, and we are confident that he will help advance our mission in every way possible during his time with us."

Helton holds degrees from Indiana State University, Indiana University and Hanover College, where he also received an honorary doctorate.

Prior to his career in post-secondary education, Helton spent nearly two decades as a superintendent for the South Ripley Community School Corp., then the Avon Community School Corp.

Helton says he comes to the Wittenberg job at an "important time in history." He adds "from my extensive conversations with students, faculty, staff, Board members and community leaders, it is clear that Wittenberg is a special place committed to academic excellence and dedicated to helping students discover their passions. I look forward to partnering with all of the University’s constituents as we work together to fulfill Wittenberg’s mission."

He will be in charge of major university initiatives, including a multi-million Health, Wellness, and Athletics facility project currently underway.

Wittenberg is a liberal arts and sciences university affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.