This position is a part of the senior leadership team of the AGS administrative organization and is second only to the associate vice president for Adult and Graduate Studies. The executive director ensures a high level of efficiency among AGS personnel in supporting and following MVNU and AGS policies/procedures and in providing input and direction pertaining to strategic planning and program positioning within a highly competitive adult education environment.

With the increasing size and complexity of MVNU's Adult and Graduate Studies programs, it was critical to establish an executive position which would direct the administrative processes and operational management of the organization. Melanie possesses the skills and a thorough knowledge of the Adult and Graduate Studies unit to provide such leadership,” said Associate Vice President for Adult and Graduate Studies Dr. Randall Wells.

Bolender holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Miami University and a master’s in business administration from Ashland University. She has previously served as a market research analyst at Bases Group/Burke Marketing, executive director of Hospice of Knox County and director of Enrollment Services for MVNU’s Excell program.

"I am very pleased to have this new opportunity and challenge. I look forward to working with our leadership team as we continue to develop MVNU's adult and graduate studies programs and expand to new locations,” commented Bolender. “It is exciting to be involved in the fastest growing segment of higher education nationwide. For example, the number of adult and graduate students we serve surpassed 1,000 and the number of students enrolled in graduate programs more than doubled this past year.”

As an active member of the local community, Bolender serves as a member of Rotary Club, Big Brothers/Big Sisters board of directors, Junior Achievement advisory board and the inaugural class of Leadership Knox. She resides in Mount Vernon with her husband, Ron, and four sons: Chad, James, Chase and Ian.

Mount Vernon Nazarene University is an intentionally Christian teaching university for traditional age students, graduate students, and working adults who seek opportunities to learn and grow in an academic community of faith. It provides the context for a transformational experience through excellent academics, service opportunities, caring relationships, and a nurturing spiritual and social environment. MVNU challenges students to achieve their highest potential, to become increasingly Christ-like, and to make a difference in their world through lifelong service.

For more information, please contact (740) 392-6868, ext. 4341.