Momentum at North Central University
Following a national search to succeed interim President Doug Graham, Dr. Darnell Williams was appointed president of North Central University (NCU) in 2025. A Cleveland native and Holmes Bible College graduate, Williams joined NCU in 2022 as a professor of pastoral studies after nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry in Ohio.
Looking ahead, President Williams is embracing a “Culture-First” approach. In an interview with the Minnesota District, he shared, “You can have the best vision, but if you don’t have a healthy culture, your vision is not going to go far.”
To accomplish this, his team has focused on campus safety and upgrades to student gathering spaces. This includes additions such as fences, gates, additional lighting, and an updated patio with a pergola system to encourage student common space gathering. Plans have also been made to refresh campus monument signage.
Another culture-first effort being made is a renewed focus on the NCU alumni relationship, by reconnecting and sharing their stories. “Our alumni are doing incredible things all over the world,” says President Williams, “We have to tell those stories.”
Momentum is already building amongst the NCU staff and faculty. President Williams had this to say: “The team here, they’re giving not just their time and their energy, but they’re giving North Central their passion.”
The momentum continues as applications for Fall 2026 are already up 15%. Give Day 2025 surpassed its $150,000 goal, thanks to 115 committed donors. Additionally, even before Williams’ official appointment, freshman enrollment has increased by 9%.
The future is bright for North Central University, and we are so excited to see what God does with President Williams and NCU!
