EVANSVILLE, IND. Kenton Hargis has announced his departure from the University of Evansville (UE), effective in August. Hargis, a longtime leader in the Office of Admission and a fixture around UE’s campus, has played a pivotal role in recruiting students and building UE’s reputation over more than a decade. His decision comes as he prepares to dedicate more time to his family and stay home with his two young children.
“Serving the University of Evansville has been the greatest honor of my professional life,” Hargis said. “The students, faculty, staff, administrators, and alumni I’ve met along the way have made this community an incredibly special part of my life. Most of all, I’ve been deeply fortunate to work alongside an admission team whose passion, heart, and unwavering belief in our mission have inspired me every single day. While it’s very difficult to step away from a place and a team I love, I know this is the right decision for my family. I’ll always promote the caring culture for which UE is known-and I’ll forever be a proud Ace.”
A 2006 graduate of UE, Hargis returned to his alma mater in 2010 and quickly became known for his energy, creativity, and deep commitment to the University’s mission. He has led strategic enrollment management efforts, launched innovative initiatives, provided vision throughout the ups and downs of many recruiting cycles, and built lasting relationships across campus and the community. Under his leadership, UE has attracted countless bright and talented students whose lives have been changed and who are going on to make a difference in the world.
Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing Dr. Jill Griffin expressed her gratitude for Hargis’s contributions.
“We’ve all become better from working with Kenton-not only because of his leadership, but because of who he is. He brings out the best in people, inspires action, and never hesitates to lead the charge, even when the hill is steep,” Griffin said. “Kenton’s decision to focus on his family reflects the same values that have defined his leadership at UE-compassion, dedication, and a deep sense of responsibility. While we will miss him tremendously, we know he will embrace this next role with the same heart and purpose that made him such an exceptional colleague and leader at UE.”
Griffin also announced that Kim McDonald, currently Director of Enrollment Marketing and Operations, will continue her current work but also take on tactical leadership of the team as the Director of Admission. A seasoned admission leader, McDonald has been a cornerstone of the recruitment team and provided strong leadership during parental leaves and other transitions.
“Kenton’s leadership has defined what it means to serve with purpose, and his work has directly contributed to UE’s remarkable enrollment growth over the past four years,” Griffin added. “With Kim’s steady leadership and a strong team in place, we are well-positioned for a smooth transition and an exciting future.”
A national search is underway to identify an Assistant Vice President for Admission who will have responsibility for both undergraduate and graduate admission. This will help to enhance recruitment efforts across all areas of the university and ensure a strategic approach to enrollment growth.
