Vanguard University

Following a national search, Vanguard University President Dr. Michael Beals announced today the appointment of Dr. Ryan T. Hartwig as Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) and Provost effective June 22, 2022.

Dr. Hartwig currently serves as the dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences and Professor of Communication at Colorado Christian University in Lakewood, Colorado. At Colorado Christian, Dr. Hartwig developed and launched several new academic programs, including an Honors Program, implemented a new program review process and accordingly revamped programs, and increased diversity of the faculty. Dr. Hartwig has also served at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California as Chair of the Department of Communication, Associate Dean of the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences and Chair of the Chairs’ Advisory Council, all while serving on the faculty as Associate Professor of Communication. 

“Dr. Hartwig brings an exceptional background to serve Vanguard as our next Provost. He is a recognized academic leader who comes to us with a deep understanding of the work of academic operations in the current landscape of Christian higher education,” said President Beals. “As a faculty member, he champions the critical role of faculty and the importance of student learning, while embodying a deep commitment to the integration of faith and learning both inside and outside the classroom. He is the perfect fit for Vanguard.” 

As VPAA and Provost, Dr. Hartwig will serve as Chief Academic Officer at Vanguard and provide vision and leadership for the faculty and academic services and programs, including the Undergraduate College, graduate and professional studies, academic centers and institutes and the Registrar and Library. The Provost reports directly to the President and serves as a member of the University President’s Cabinet. 

“I am thrilled to join the thriving academic community at Vanguard University. I am drawn to Vanguard’s clear commitment to transformational, Spirit-empowered, Christ-centered education,” said Dr. Hartwig. “I look forward to partnering with President Beals and joining the Cabinet, and working together with faculty, academic leadership, and staff to advance our academic mission and set our sights on becoming the leading source for Christian higher education in California.”

Dr. Hartwig holds a Ph.D. in Group and Organizational Communication from the University of Colorado, an M.S.Ed. in Higher Education Administration from Purdue University, and a B.A. in Communication and B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies from Colorado Christian University. 

Dr. Hartwig is the author of two best-selling books on church leadership: Teams That Thrive (InterVarsity Press, 2015) and Leading Small Groups That Thrive (Zondervan, 2020). He has written for leading publications such as Influence, Outreach Magazine, Leadership Journal and pastors.com. In addition, Dr. Hartwig is a frequent speaker and consultant to ministries and churches throughout the nation. 

Dr. Hartwig is married to Jill, and the proud father of his four children: Halle, Alia, Katelyn, and Matthew. The Hartwigs are excited to join the Vanguard community.