J. David Arnold

Who is J. David Arnold?

Since 2005, J. David Arnold, Ph.D., has served as president and professor of psychology at Eureka College in Eureka, Illinois. During his tenure at Eureka, the College created a strategic plan entitled “Growth with Integrity” that has achieved record enrollments and balanced budgets while reducing tuition/tuition discount and increasing net tuition revenue; launched the Ivy Project, to achieve campus improvements, including the construction of a new residence hall; and doubled the percentage of alumni giving. Other recent achievements include the expansion of faculty resources, creation of visiting scholar and executive programs, and the implementation of a new organizational leadership program to attract non-traditional students.

Designated a National Historic District for its importance in American history in 2010, Eureka has graduated 42 college presidents, seven governors and members of Congress, and the 40th President of the United States, Ronald Wilson Reagan. Building on this legacy of creating servant leaders, a Reagan Forward initiative was implemented in 2008 to focus on leadership and service—related events include a national academic conference and hosting dozens of guest lectures on servant leadership, including one by Mikhail Gorbachev. Eureka continues an emphasis on the mutual development of intellect and character consistent with its founding denomination, the Christian Church. In 2011, Dr. Arnold concluded his term as chair the presidents’ council of Disciples-related colleges and universities.