Bob Jones University announced today the appointment of Dr. Eric Newton as Dean of Students.  Reporting to Dr. Gary Weier, Vice President for Administration, Dr. Newton replaces Dr. Jim Berg who held the position for 29 years.

Dr. Newton graduated from BJU in 2001 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history.  He continued his education at BJU and received a Master of Divinity degree in Theology in 2003 and a PhD in Theology in 2010.  His service at BJU began in 2001 as a graduate assistant in the history department.  He then traveled for a year as a BJU ministry team leader.   He has served as the assistant dean of students for three years.

As the dean of students, Dr. Newton will oversee the Dean of Men’s and Dean of Women’s offices and student life activities, such as student leadership development, student mentoring and counseling, student service organizations and community service initiatives.  He will also serve on the advisory staff for the student yearbook and newspaper.

Over the past year, he played a major role in enrollment planning initiatives that impact student recruitment and retention.  “Our goal at BJU is to educate the whole person,” says Dr. Gary Weier, Vice President for Administration.  “I look forward to Eric’s continued contribution in helping us prepare students for the positions God has for them in the future.”

Dr. Jim Berg, the outgoing Dean of Students says, “Eric brings to his new position personal humility, godliness, organizational skills, love for students, and knowledge of our times in light of the Scriptures.  The student life staff already has the highest respect for him.  [Eric] has demonstrated the initiative and wisdom needed for his new role.”