Bluffton University announced on February 26 that Dr. Jane Wood has resigned from her position as president, and that Dr. J. Alexander Sider has been appointed as Acting President effective immediately.

"On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I want to express our gratitude to Dr. Wood for her service to Bluffton University. Her leadership has been integral to the university’s growth and development,” said Cheryl Hacker, Bluffton University Board of Trustees Chairperson. “We are confident that Dr. Sider’s deep commitment to our mission ‘to prepare students for life as well as vocation…and ultimately for the purposes of God’s universal kingdom,’ combined with his extensive experience at Bluffton, will ensure a smooth and successful transition as we continue to build a bright future for the university."

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Dr. Sider, a longtime member of the Bluffton faculty, has served the university in various roles since joining in 2006, including as Professor of Religion, The Harry and Jean Yoder Scholar in Bible and Theology, Director of Peace and Conflict Studies, Director of University Assessment Programs, ADA/504 Coordinator, and most recently Vice President of Academic Affairs and Academic Dean. He holds a Ph.D. in Religion from Duke University (2004), an MTS from The Divinity School at Duke University, and a B.A. in Religion from Messiah University.

Dr. Sider is also the author or co-author of two books and numerous articles in Christian theology, ethics, Anabaptist studies, and disability studies. His leadership, deep knowledge of the institution, and dedication to Bluffton’s mission make him well-qualified to guide the university through this transition.

“I am honored to serve as Acting President of Bluffton University,” said Dr. Sider. “Bluffton’s commitment to academic excellence, community, and preparing students to thrive in an ever-changing world remains strong, and I am excited to work alongside our dedicated faculty, staff, and students as we continue to build upon this solid foundation.”

Sider is married to Kathy Dickson ’03 and has two sons, J.D. and Evan. They reside in Bluffton, Ohio.

The university’s Board of Trustees will work closely with Dr. Sider, Cabinet, and other campus leaders to ensure a smooth transition and continue to advance Bluffton’s mission of “preparing students of all backgrounds for life as well as vocation.”

Bluffton University is focused on its strategic priorities, which include enhancing academic programs, fostering student success, and reinforcing the strong community that defines the institution.