MOUNT VERNON – Mount Vernon Nazarene University’s (MVNU) seventh president and first lady, Dr. Henry and Mrs. Sharon Spaulding, were lauded for their love and dedication to the university as faculty, staff, donors and friends gathered recently to celebrate the retirement of the second-longest tenured president.
Dr. Gustavo Crocker, jurisdictional general superintendent of the Church of the Nazarene, presented Spaulding with the Distinguished Service Award for his faithful leadership and years of service as president of MVNU.
“In the Church of the Nazarene, we have an award that is given to those who distinguish themselves — lay and clergy — for their service to God, the Church and to society in ways that transcend our own gifts and own circle,” Crocker said. “That has been the life ministry and academic trajectory of Dr. Henry Spaulding II.”
Todd Jones, president of the Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities of Ohio, said most college presidents do not stay with one institution for multiple years; however, because Spaulding served as president for over 10 years, the university will continue to benefit for years to come.
“It is not just the relationships, not just the programs and buildings — those are all wonderful things — but creating a culture that is going to remain cohesive through the best of times when things are easy, and through worst of times,” Jones said. “This institution is prepared to capitalize on that and be in a better place for his service here.”
In Spaulding’s 10 ½ years as president, MVNU has grown not only in its footprint in the city of Mount Vernon and the programs offered both on campus and online, but it is also the relationships developed and nurtured by the couple, especially with the students, that will have a lasting impact.
“There are many accomplishments we can celebrate, but most notably, it is the impact Dr. and Mrs. (Sharon) Spaulding have had on our students,” Dr. James Smith, vice president for university relations, said. “They have been our students’ strongest supporters and cheerleaders. Dr. and Mrs. Spaulding, we are forever grateful for your leadership and commitment to MVNU. You are leaving behind a wonderful legacy, and we sincerely thank you for your ministry to the university and the Mount Vernon community.”
Mayor Matthew Starr presented a proclamation designating April 25, as Dr. Henry W. Spaulding II Day in the city of Mount Vernon.
Other speakers included Ed Phillips, chairperson of MVNU Board of Trustees; Mike VanZant, faculty representative; Mel Severns, staff representative; Dr. Barney Cochran, retired vice president of academic affairs; Pioneers Bill and Brita Bridges and Campus Pastor Stephanie Lobdell.
“Sharon and I are overwhelmed by the love and appreciation expressed by faculty, staff and friends at our retirement reception,” Spaulding said. “The presence of Jurisdictional General Superintendent Gustavo Crocker and Klaus Arnold, commissioner of Nazarene Higher Education, made the event more special for us. We will remember the reception for the rest of our lives. Thank you to all who attended.”
The Spauldings will close their service to MVNU following commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 6.
