Madtes, Tocheff receive Presidential Outstanding Leadership Award

Professor of Biology Dr. Paul Madtes Jr., left, and Dr. Bob Tocheff, Prefessor Emeritus of Music at MVNU, each stop for a photo with Chief Academic Officer/ Executive Vice President Colleen Derr after being presented with the Presidential Outstanding Leadership award.

A new honor, the Presidential Outstanding Leadership award, developed by MVNU President Dr. Carson Castleman, was presented to longtime professors Dr. Paul Madtes Jr. and Dr. Bob Tocheff during the 65th Commencement ceremonies at Mount Vernon Nazarene University on May 3. The purpose of this award with honor distinguished educators and mentors who have dedicated their lives to shaping future leaders.

Dr. Paul Madtes Jr.

Dr. Madtes, Professor of Biology, is completing a 36-year teaching career at MVNU. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Eastern Nazarene College, a Master’s in Biophysics from Texas A&M University, a Ph.D. in Biochemistry also from Texas A&M and a Ph.D. in Biblical Counseling from Trinity Theological Seminary.

“Dr. Paul Madtes is a remarkable individual — whose commitment to education, faith, and service has left an enduring impact on countless students at Mount Vernon Nazarene University and beyond for over three decades,” said Dr. Castleman. “Dr. Madtes has influenced the lives of thousands of young men and women as they prepare for careers in the medical and scientific field. His dedication to mentoring future medical professionals exemplifies what it is to be a leader and a person of deep faith. Between vocation and faith, he inspires students to pursue their passions while remaining grounded in their values.”

Dr. Madtes has received numerous honors, including the MVNU Recruitment Award and the ENC Alumni Achievement Award. With advanced degrees in biblical counseling and biochemistry, he has contributed to the academic community through his publications and presentations at national and international conferences, reflecting a lifelong dedication to learning and scholarship.

Dr. Bob Tocheff

Dr. Tocheff, Professor Emeritus of Music, is a 1972 graduate of MVNU, earning an associate degree before bachelor’s were offered. He then earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Olivet Nazarene University, and a master’s in music education from Wright State University before finishing his Ph.D. in Musical Education (Choral Emphasis) from The Ohio State University. He has contributed to the MVNU music program for over 43 years, including director of the Collegians Chorale since 1991 and Treble Singers for the decade prior.

“For over four decades, Dr. Tocheff has been an invaluable member of the Mount Vernon Nazarene University family, serving as professor of Music since 1981,” said Castleman. “His influence as an educator extends far beyond the classroom, as he has taught and invested in thousands of students nurturing their talents and inspiring and love for music that will last a lifetime. His resume reflects a commitment to excellence and music education. … Throughout his career, Dr. Tocheff has received numerous accolades, including the MVNU Distinguished Alumni award and the Church of the Nazarene Distinguished Service award.

“His academic achievements, combined with his heartfelt commitment to his students, made him a true role model and leader in the MVNU community. He is a man that lives above and beyond reproach. He is one of high ethics; and loves and cares for all people at all times.”