Evans P. Whitaker

Dr. Evans P. Whitaker serves as the twelfth president of Anderson University since 2002 and holds the academic rank of Professor of Management, Leadership & Organizations in the College of Business & Economics. Under his leadership, Anderson University has transformed into a premier comprehensive institution recognized nationally for innovation and growth.

His educational background includes:

• University of Oxford (UK), Executive Leadership
• Vanderbilt University, M.Ed., Ph.D. in Education and Human Development
• Gardner-Webb University, B.S. in Business

Dr. Whitaker's research focuses on organizational behavior, leadership development, and higher education administration. His foundational work on organizational commitment established his academic credentials, while his presidency has operationalized these principles through institutional transformation. He champions holistic education integrating intellectual, spiritual, and professional development, emphasizing C.S. Lewis's perspective on human identity.

His distinguished honors include:

• Two international CASE awards for dissertation excellence (1999)
• South Carolina's highest civilian honor, the Order of the Palmetto (2023)
• Two-time recognition among Upstate South Carolina's 50 Most Influential individuals

As institutional leader, Whitaker has driven unprecedented growth including 169% enrollment increase, $100+ million in capital improvements, and establishment of five new academic colleges. His governance extends to national boards including the Council of Independent Colleges and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, shaping broader higher education policy while maintaining Anderson's Christian identity.