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Milligan University is proud to announce its president, Dr. Stephen Waers, has been named to the latest class of 40 Under Forty honorees by the Business Journal of Tri-Cities TN/VA. This prestigious recognition highlights young professionals in the region who excel in their professions while serving their communities.

Dr. Waers, who became Milligan’s 16th president earlier this year, was honored at a celebratory event held last month at the Johnson City Country Club. The Business Journal’s Managing Editor, A.J. Kaufman, cited Dr. Waers’ dynamic leadership and steadfast commitment to Milligan’s mission in his remarks during the ceremony.

Most university presidents are appointed to their first presidency at an average age of 52, according to a recent study by the American Council on Education. Dr. Waers, however, was just shy of 39 when he accepted the call to lead Milligan University, a testament to his extraordinary aptitude, maturity, and leadership abilities.

“At his young age, Stephen has already exhibited the kind of maturity, insight, and wisdom that typically isn’t seen until much later in life,” said Dr. Bill Greer, Milligan’s chancellor and president emeritus. “Because of his leadership acumen, thoughtful nature, and demonstrated track record of success, it was my great honor to endorse him being named among this year’s 40 Under Forty honorees.”

Dr. Waers earned his doctorate in Religious Studies – Historical Theology from Marquette University in 2016 after completing his Master of Divinity at Emmanuel Christian Seminary at Milligan in 2010. Prior to accepting the call to be Milligan’s president, he held dual administrative roles at Point University in Georgia, serving as both chief academic officer and chief information officer. In these capacities, Dr. Waers achieved significant milestones:

– As chief academic officer, he built a strong faculty culture and streamlined Point’s academic offerings, resulting in a three-fold increase in enrollment in the university’s online programs.

– As chief information officer, he led a comprehensive digital transformation, unifying the institution’s disparate systems into an integrated digital ecosystem.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Waers is a Christian, husband, and father. He is also an ordained minister in the Independent Christian Churches. As president of Milligan University, he is committed to leading the institution into a vibrant future while remaining faithful to its core values.

The 40 Under Forty award is a recognition not only of professional excellence, but also of dedication to serving others. Dr. Waers embodies these qualities and stands poised to make a lasting positive impact on Milligan and the broader Tri-Cities region.