MVNU appoints new Exec. Director of Human Resources and Training & Development

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio — Mount Vernon Nazarene University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Joshua J. Black as Executive Director of Human Resources and Training & Development. Dr. Black’s appointment is effective immediately.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Josh Black to the MVNU community as our new Executive Director of Human Resources and Training & Development,” said MVNU President Dr. Carson Castleman. “Dr. Black brings more than two decades of exceptional leadership in Human Resources and Christian Higher Education, and his life’s work reflects a deep commitment to people, culture, and the Kingdom of God.”Dr. Black most recently served as Executive Director of Lee Online at Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee, where he led innovative strategies to enhance digital learning experiences for students globally. During his 13 years of leadership, Lee Online received recognition for excellence in digital education.

Prior to Lee University, Dr. Black held progressive leadership positions at Indiana Wesleyan University, including Associate Dean of the School of Liberal Arts and Regional Dean, overseeing operations, academic programs, and faculty development across multiple education centers.

Dr. Black holds a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership with a concentration in Adult Higher Education from Nova Southeastern University, a M.A. in Christian Ministries from Malone College, and a B.S. in Human Development from Lee University. He serves as an ordained bishop in the Church of God and has been active in the Christian Adult Higher Education Association Leadership Council.

“He is a man of deep faith and integrity, and Minister in the Church of God, and someone who understands that at the heart of any thriving institution are the people who serve, lead, and learn within it,” Dr. Castleman added. “Dr. Black’s passion for developing others and cultivating healthy organizational culture aligns beautifully with The MVNU Way. We are truly blessed to have him join the MVNU family, and I look forward to the significant impact he will make in the days ahead.”

In his new role, Dr. Black will oversee all aspects of human resources, including policy development, employee relations, benefits administration, training and development, and regulatory compliance.

Dr. Black’s wife, Dr. Michaelia Black, is an Assistant Professor of Accounting at Lee University and will join him in Mount Vernon at the end of May upon completing her contract. The couple has three married sons — two living in Cleveland, Tennessee, and one in Fostoria, Ohio — in addition to a 13-month-old grandson and a granddaughter on the way.

“My wife and I are excited to return to Ohio and for God’s call to MVNU,” said Dr. Black. “We both love Christian higher education and are eager to join our new colleagues at MVNU to be a part of the growth and momentum that is happening for the Kingdom of God.”

For more about career opportunities with MVNU, visit mvnu.edu/jobs.