MVNU board extends Dr. Castleman’s contract through 2031

The Board of Trustees of Mount Vernon Nazarene University has unanimously reaffirmed its confidence in Dr. Carson Castleman, announcing a new four-year contract renewal that will extend his presidency through June 2031. The announcements reflect the board’s strong endorsement of Castleman’s visionary leadership and the remarkable institutional transformation that has taken place under his tenure.

Castleman has served as MVNU’s eighth president since October 2023, and over the past three years has led the university through a period of purposeful and measurable growth. His steadfast focus on mission, enrollment, and fiscal stewardship has produced results that are reshaping MVNU’s trajectory in Christian Higher Education.

“Over the past three years, we have not pursued change for the sake of change, but rather for the sake of transformation and commitment to the mission,” said Dr. Castleman.

Growth highlights under Dr. Castleman's leadership

– Enrollment: Up 21% reflecting a renewed confidence among prospective students and families in MVNU’s mission and academic excellence.

– University endowment: Up 27% demonstrating strengthened donor trust and long-term financial health.

– Church giving: Up 21% signaling depended partnership with the Church of the Nazarene and the broader Wesleyan-Holiness community.

– Adult and Professional programs revenue: Up 135% illustrating a remarkable expansion that underscores MVNU’s growing reach and relevance for adult learners.

Beyond the numbers, Castleman’s presidency has produced measurable improvements in student experience. Student satisfaction scores have risen significantly in three critical areas: Belonging, Spiritual Formation, and Safe Environment these are core pillars that reflect the heart of MVNU’s identity as a Christ-centered institution.

Castleman’s aspirational goal of positioning MVNU as the leading Christ-centered university in the Midwest continues to inspire and challenge the institution. His tenacious commitment to leading change during a difficult season in Higher Education has earned the respect of faculty, staff, students, alumni, and the church community alike.

“At our meeting earlier this week, the Board of Trustees unanimously reaffirmed its full confidence and support in Dr. Castleman’s leadership. He has assembled and inspired a leadership team that is driving growth and transformation across every dimension of this University. It is evident that MVNU is on a strong and promising trajectory, and we are deeply pleased of his efforts to lead the MVNU faculty and staff with clear vision and unwavering commitment to our mission. We look forward with great anticipation to what the next chapter will bring for MVNU,” said Rev. Ed Phillips, chair of the Board of Trustees.

With his contract now extended through June 2031, the MVNU community looks forward to new and exciting opportunities ahead. Under Castleman’s continued guidance, Mount Vernon Nazarene University is well-positioned to build upon its momentum and advance its mission of transforming lives through character, scholarship, and service.

For more about MVNU, visit mvnu.edu.