Updated March 8, 2024

Dr. Abby M. Hodges, PhD, was appointed vice president for academic affairs effective March 1, 2024. Dr. David Spittal, president stated, “I am confident in Dr. Hodges visionary leadership to advance teaching and learning as a strong foundation for the future with expanded opportunities for our students.”

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Abby M. Hodges, PhD, has been appointed interim vice president for academic affairs following the departure of Nancy Damron, PhD, on October 31. Dr. Damron served the university for 13 years in several teaching and leadership positions. Dr. Hodges has been a professor, department chair and dean at MNU since 2014.

Dr. Hodges initially joined the MNU faculty from Azuza Pacific University, where she served as associate professor of chemistry and assistant department chair of biology and chemistry. At MNU, she primarily taught organic chemistry, biochemistry and chemistry for the health sciences. She quickly took on leadership roles such as chair of the Natural, Health and Mathematical sciences department, then dean of the College of Arts & Sciences.

Dr. Hodges is a recognized scholar and researcher in the field of chemistry. Her research has focused on protein folding and protein engineering, and she has mentored more than 20 students on these research topics. She has also advanced the MNU first-year experience program and chaired the General Education committee for five years. Dr. Hodges was recognized as the MNU Faculty of the Year in 2021.

“Abby is committed to excellence in teaching and learning in a Christ-centered environment,” said MNU President David Spittal. “She is active in campus life, participates with student organizations and is a mentor for the freshman seminar program. Her passion for students, and the integration of faith, science and the liberal arts is evident in her work.”

Dr. Hodges earned a BS in chemistry at Denison University, then an MS and PhD in Organic Chemistry from Yale University. Her undergraduate research led to her doctoral research at Yale and internships with the Procter and Gamble Research-Biotechnology Division. She has published numerous academic papers and holds a patent for modified miniature proteins, leading to many professional presentations about her findings. These experiences have made Dr. Hodges a champion for undergraduate research at MNU, resulting in exceptional research opportunities for students.

Colleagues are delighted to work with Dr. Hodges in this new role.

“Abby brings a clear vision for excellence in Christian higher education and a strong relational presence to her work with students, parents, staff, and faculty,” says Rick Hanson, PhD, interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.  “Additionally, students benefit from her work building educational partnerships with community organizations and regional education partners.”

Jamie Myrtle, EdD, dean of the College of Professional and Graduate Studies, says “Abby has been an integral part of our leadership team and is responsible for so many great changes and opportunities for our students. She has an amazing strategic mind and a vision for continuing the great work Dr. Damron started.”

Dr. Hodges lives in Olathe with her husband Ryan and two boys.

Learn more about MNU academics at mnu.edu.