Welcome to Fresno Pacific University!
As president of Fresno Pacific University, André Stephens, Ph.D., brings over 30 years of dedicated service to Christian higher education in California, guided by a steadfast belief: “Students’ success is our success.”
Since beginning his tenure in July 2022, Dr. Stephens has led a collaborative, university-wide effort to enhance the student experience by streamlining policies, processes and procedures across all programs and campuses—traditional undergraduate, bachelor’s degree completion, graduate and seminary. His leadership has already contributed to gains in enrollment and retention in key areas.
Dr. Stephens approaches the challenges facing higher education—such as shifting demographics and public skepticism—with both resolve and vision. He is equally attuned to the unique needs of California’s Central Valley, where economic barriers and historically low graduation rates call for bold and compassionate leadership.
President André Stephens and First Lady Beth Stephens
A first-generation college graduate himself, Stephens earned his B.A. in Communication (Public Relations) from Biola University, his M.A. in Speech Communication (Intercultural/Interpersonal) from California State University, Fullerton, and his Ph.D. in Education (Higher Education Administration/Student Affairs) from Claremont Graduate University.
President Stephens and First Lady Beth Stephens, a fellow Biola graduate and former teacher, have three adult children.
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