Dr. Ann Vendrely announced as new vice president for academic affairs and academic dean

Goshen College President Rebecca Stoltzfus has named Dr. Ann Vendrely as the college’s new vice president for academic affairs and academic dean. Bringing more than 20 years of experience in higher education as a professor, researcher and administrator, Vendrely will direct the college’s academic program, provide leadership to the teaching faculty and lead the academic strategic planning.

“I am so pleased to have Ann join our leadership team,” said Stoltzfus. “Her extensive teaching, administrative and research experience, expertise and success will be invaluable as she helps us shape our curriculum and academic program offerings for the needs of our students, our community and the broader world.”

For the past four years Vendrely has been the associate provost and associate vice president for academic affairs at Governors State University in University Park, Illinois, which has included launching a new general education program and overseeing a successful accreditation process. As a researcher, she has participated in receiving grants totaling more than $2 million, and her scholarship has focused on a variety of topics in physical therapy, as well as research on best practices for undergraduate education. She is also a professor of physical therapy at the university and previously served as the program coordinator for the school’s transitional doctor of physical therapy degree program. In her role as a professor, Vendrely received the institution’s faculty excellence award three times.

“I am so energized by the possibilities and opportunities as I look forward to helping move the new vision and growth potential of Goshen College forward,” she said.

Vendrely is a 1985 graduate of Goshen College, where she majored in education. She received a master’s degree in physical therapy from the University of Indianapolis, a doctor of education degree from Loyola University Chicago and a second doctorate in physical therapy from Regis University in Denver, Colorado.

Vendrely is married to fellow 1985 Goshen College graduate Pat Vendrely, and they are the parents of 2016 Goshen College graduates Kate and Chris Vendrely. She is an active member of Lombard (Illinois) Mennonite Church.

“While she brings impressive external expertise, Ann also knows us well, which is an asset,” said Stoltzfus. “Her commitment to our values and faith foundation will help keep us rooted in our identity, mission and vision. And her experience with academic entrepreneurship and strategic planning at a minority serving institution will help us move with confidence into the future.”

With her role beginning July 1, 2018, Vendrely will report directly to the president and be a member of the president’s cabinet. She follows Dr. Jo-Ann Brant and Dr. Ross Peterson-Veatch, who served as interim vice presidents for academic affairs and academic dean after Dr. Anita Stalter retired in 2015.