Our New Provost
On July 1, Dr. Rick Ostrander began his tenure as Provost of Cornerstone University. Ostrander brings distinguished academic credentials as an educator, administrator, and author of three books.
“We are very grateful that the Lord has brought to the Cornerstone community a man of Dr. Ostrander’s capacity,” said President Joseph Stowell. “The position of provost and chief academic officer plays a significant part in moving the university forward academically, and Dr. Ostrander is uniquely suited for this task. I’m sure that our community will not only find him to be a great addition professionally but also personally.”
Ostrander holds a doctorate in American History from the University of Notre Dame. He also holds a master’s degree in history from the University of Notre Dame, a bachelor's degree in history from the University of Michigan, and a bachelor’s degree in theology from Moody Bible Institute. He has also served as a Fulbright Senior Scholar at the University of Wurzburg in Wurzburg, Germany.
Ostrander previously served as Dean of Undergraduate Studies at John Brown University in Siloam Springs, Arkansas. As academic dean, he led a major revision of the university’s core curriculum, developed a new First Year Seminar and Summer Reading program, implemented a new faculty evaluation system, and significantly expanded the university’s international programs.
“I am excited about joining the Cornerstone community,” said Ostrander after the announcement was made. “My passion is for preparing students for global impact through academically rigorous, spiritually vibrant higher education, and Cornerstone University is ideally positioned to offer such an education. Cornerstone’s future is bright, and I look forward to working with Dr. Stowell and the rest of the university community.”
Dr. Ostrander’s most recent book, Why College Matters to God: Academic Faithfulness and Christian Higher Education, was published in June 2009 by Abilene Christian University Press.
Rick and his wife Lonnie have four children, Ryan (18), Tyler (17), Rachel (14), and Anna (12). He is an avid cyclist who logs thousands of miles a year on his road bike.
Sept. 9, 2009 - Click here to view the Fall Convocation Address
