Presidential finalist to visit NWC Sept. 9-11

Greg Christy, vice president for institutional advancement at Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, S.D., has been selected by the search committee to meet on campus with a wide variety of Northwestern constituencies, including students, faculty, staff, Board of Trustees members, alumni and area residents. The committee voted unanimously to invite Christy to campus after conducting off-campus interviews with several candidates.

“We are extremely excited about Greg Christy’s qualifications, and we intend to recommend him to the Board of Trustees,” says the Rev. Jon Opgenorth, chairman of the Presidential Search Committee.  “Northwestern constituents will find Greg easy to connect with and clear in his grasp of leadership. His authentic Christian commitment, effectiveness at a senior level in an institution of higher education, and proven ability to lead high-functioning teams and to handle difficult situations with tact and grace make Greg an excellent fit for Northwestern.”

Christy has directed Dakota Wesleyan’s fund-raising efforts since 1995. Under his leadership, the university has successfully completed a $40 million capital campaign, which included building the George and Eleanor McGovern Library and Center for Leadership and Public Service, plus facilities for the arts, worship and residence life. Christy has also led a campus-wide master planning/building task force. He oversees a team of nine persons in the areas of annual giving, major gifts, development, alumni relations, gift planning, grant writing, prospect research and church relations.

Before joining the Dakota Wesleyan staff, Christy served as tickets and promotions manager for the South Dakota State University athletic department and as promotions coordinator in the Iowa State University athletic department.

A native of Ottumwa, Iowa, Christy earned a bachelor’s degree in management from Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa. He received a master’s degree in physical education and sports management from Western Illinois University.

Christy’s wife, Michelle, is a native of Storm Lake, Iowa, who earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Simpson. She worked as a church ministry assistant for 10 years before leaving to further pursue a writing and speaking ministry. The Christys have three children: Ryan (13), Madalyn (9) and Kyle (6).

The Presidential Search Committee was formed last fall after Dr. Bruce Murphy, Northwestern’s president since 2001, announced his pending retirement. He plans to conclude his time at Northwestern later this semester.

Greg Christy's resume (PDF)
Presidential search website