The Board of Trustees at Spring Arbor University (SAU) has renewed the contract of President Dr. Brent Ellis for an additional five years, extending his tenure through at least 2031. Serving as president since 2013, Dr. Ellis is the longest-tenured President in the university’s 152-year history. This contract renewal will extend his tenure to 17 years of service.

This announcement comes after the public launch of Ignite: The Campaign for Spring Arbor University, in September 2024. The Ignite campaign will raise $80,000,000 for the expansion and modernization of the Whiteman Gibbs Science Center, continued growth of SAU’s endowment, and support of the university’s annual fund, the Arbor Fund. Under Dr. Ellis’ leadership the University endowment has grown by more than 400%.

“Brent has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership grounded in faith, vision, and integrity,” said Gregory Bontrager, the Chair of SAU’s Board of Trustees. “As we look to the future, the Board is confident that his continued presidency through our comprehensive campaign and beyond will strengthen Spring Arbor University’s mission and position us for strategic growth. His unwavering commitment to Christ-centered education ensures that Spring Arbor remains an institution of academic excellence and spiritual formation.”

In addition to the expected renovation of the Whiteman Gibbs Science Center, Dr. Ellis has overseen significant improvements in academics and facilities on campus during his presidency. This includes investing in numerous academic spaces such as the Jaworski Clinical Simulation Center for Nursing Programs, the Weatherwax Microbiology Laboratory, the Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine Clinic, and the Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Laboratories.

These improvements to campus facilities have allowed for the addition of programs like a residential Nursing program, as well as Mechanical and Electrical Engineering. Graduate enrollment has continued to grow with new programs including the Doctor of Nursing Practice, Master of Education in Trauma and Resiliency, and a Master of Educational Leadership.

Other investments on campus include the expansion of the Kresge Student Life Center, the Jones Tennis Complex, the McDonald Athletic Center, and the Walker Track and Field Complex. Athletic participation and competition has grown at SAU highlighted by National Championships in Men’s Basketball (2019), Women’s Soccer (2015, 2017, 2022), and Women’s Bowling (2025).

Additionally, Spring Arbor University continues to receive outstanding positive outcomes from SAU graduates with 99% of campus students and 98% of online and graduate students reporting that they received exactly what they wanted from their time at SAU.

“I am deeply honored by the trust and continued support of the Board of Trustees,” said Ellis. “This extension is not just a privilege, but a shared commitment to building on the incredible momentum we’ve experienced across the university. We are excited for the innovation and growth of our academic programs, opening our students to expanded opportunities, both academically and professionally. Additionally, our intentional financial strategies are strengthening the institution’s long-term sustainability and ability to provide access to a Christ-centered education. I’m humbled and excited to continue serving Spring Arbor University as we prepare the next generation of Christ-centered leaders through our mission of educating for Christ and his kingdom.”

Dr. Ellis and his wife, Christy, have three children: Charlie, Lainey, and Joey. Dr. Ellis holds a Doctorate in higher education administration from Indiana University, a Master of Divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary, a Master’s Degree in Ministry from Bethel College, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Pastoral Ministry from Greenville College (now Greenville University). He is also an ordained minister and former church pastor. Before becoming President, Dr. Ellis served at Spring Arbor University as Special Assistant to the President and then Vice President for University Advancement, where he oversaw university development, communications, alumni, external relations, the SAU Foundation, and SAU Radio.