Dr. Matthew R. Thompson
President
Kansas Wesleyan University

Dr. Matthew R. Thompson was appointed by the Kansas Wesleyan University Board of Trustees as the 19th President of the university in January 2013 and officially began his presidency of Kansas Wesleyan on April 15, 2013.

As president, Thompson has championed academic excellence and encourages innovation in scholarship and teaching. He has launched initiatives to build interdisciplinary strength around global challenges, expanded opportunities for experiential learning, and stimulated the introduction and expansion of the Wesleyan Experience, Wesleyan Journey, and Wesleyan Heritage programs.

Prior to coming to KWU, Thompson served as the vice president for advancement at Florida Southern College. Beginning his career at his alma mater, Mercer University, Thompson has served in a variety of administrative posts. He has a broad base of experience including advancement and fundraising, student life, academic curricula development and alumni and community relations.

Thompson serves on several boards and committees including Kansas Independent Colleges Association, Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference, and the National Association of Collegiate Esports. He is the 2018 vice-chair of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce.

Thompson earned his Bachelor of Arts in Communication & Theatre Arts and a Master of Business Administration from Mercer University, Macon, Georgia. His Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration is from the University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia.