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Paul Ferguson, dean of ������ʷ’s School of Science, Technology and Health, will serve as Azusa Pacific University’s 17th president starting June 1, 2019. Today, following a national search, Ferguson as the university’s next president. Biola congratulates Ferguson on the new appointment.

“We congratulate APU on selecting an extraordinary leader,” said Biola President Barry H. Corey. “This is an important move for Christian higher education and for APU, but it is a difficult loss for us at ������ʷ. Paul will be greatly missed on campus. He has been a voice of wise counsel even beyond the School of Science, Technology and Health. I am deeply indebted to Paul for his many investments in ������ʷ, from the structural to the academic to the personal.”

Ferguson, who has served at Biola since 2016, is the founding dean of Biola’s School of Science, Technology and Health. During Ferguson’s tenure, he advanced Biola’s strategic emphasis on STEM education and research. Through his leadership, Biola has made advances in the sciences, including the addition of several new programs in the areas of STEM and health professions as well as the launch of the Stewart Honors Program, an interdisciplinary program guided by research and technology.

“From the moment I met Paul Ferguson, I sensed that he would have a catalyzing effect on our community and his three years here have exceeded my expectations,” said Deborah Taylor, Biola provost and senior vice president. “Paul’s appointment as founding dean brought renewed energy, optimism and vision to our School of Science, Technology and Health. His conscientious leadership coupled with his keen strategic planning has strengthened our curriculum, empowered our faculty and established us on a successful trajectory. Paul will be profoundly missed as a valued leader, colleague and friend.”

Ferguson received his Ph.D in pharmacology and toxicology from the University of California, Davis and his bachelor’s degree from Whittier College. He is also certified by the American Board of Toxicology. Ferguson is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in higher education and six years in corporate settings. His experience in academia has afforded him a diverse range of experience as professor and administrator managing undergraduate, graduate and professional programs. Prior to coming to Biola, he served in cabinet-level roles at three universities and as president at both the University of Maine, and, most recently, at Ball State University.

Ferguson succeeds APU’s president of two decades, Jon R. Wallace, who announced his retirement last year. Ferguson will finish the academic year at Biola before transitioning into his new role.

For more information, contact Jenna Loumagne, manager of media relations, at (562) 777-4061 or jenna.loumagne@biola.edu.