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“Sessink’s strong communication skills, positive high energy, and work in athletic administration will be of great benefit in this leadership position,” said search consultant Dr. Gordon Golsan. “She is committed to the success of each student and brings a wealth of experience that will enhance the student experience at MVNU.”

Born in Detroit, Sessink earned a BA in Physical Education from Olivet Nazarene University and a Master of Education from Oakland University in Michigan. She has completed coursework and is engaged in dissertation research for an Ed.D. from Saint Louis University. Her research explores character development in higher education.

Sessink most recently served as chair of health and exercise, associate athletic director and associate professor at MidAmerica Nazarene University. During her tenure at MNU, she worked closely with Student Development and Athletics in a number of capacities, including Student Life Council, Judicial Council, resident assistant training, chapel speaker, former coach, assisting in implementing a Character Banquet for athletics, and a number of other tasks.

Roles
Some of her many responsibilities at MVNU will include leading a staff of professionals and students; creating and implementing student development programs that focus on academic achievement, social character, spiritual growth, leadership skills and community responsibility; embracing and facilitating opportunities to engage the campus in celebrating diversity of every kind; and coordinating campus crisis response efforts.

Student Perspective
During the search and interview process, Brooke Robinson, Student Government Association representative, commented, “Ms. Sessink was incredibly interested in students and being involved with them. She met with about 15 students on her own in the evening and asked many hard-hitting questions about the University, our perceptions and feelings, and what we wanted to see changed. I greatly respected her interest in student life here at MVNU.”

Words from Sessink
When asked about her move to Mount Vernon, she commented, “I am excited to be part of the team at MVNU. There is no doubt I will miss the students, friends, and community at MidAmerica Nazarene University. My hope and prayer is that God richly blesses both universities. Being part of a team that involves shaping the lives of students on a daily basis is exciting, and I’m thankful God has called me into higher education.”

To learn more about MVNU or Student Development, call (740) 397-9000, ext. 4341.