Nelson University Announces Departure of VP for University Advancement
Nancy Lane, Content Strategist
Nelson University
For Immediate Release
WAXAHACHIE, Texas — September 2, 2025 — Nelson University announces that Rick Bowles, Vice President for University Advancement, is concluding his service with the university as he transitions into a new ministry role with David C Cook, a Christian nonprofit organization.
For the past seven years, Rick has faithfully led the university’s Advancement division. In addition to Advancement, he also provided oversight for the Admissions and Marketing departments during key seasons of growth and transition. Under his leadership, Nelson celebrated both an upward trajectory in enrollment and record-breaking donor support in the past year.
“Rick and I were classmates at then-SAGC, and I was grateful when he joined our leadership team,” said President Kermit Bridges. “He has capably and effectively served during his tenure, taking on additional responsibilities in the aftermath of the pandemic and guiding our teams with perseverance and vision. His leadership helped position Nelson for growth, and I know the entire university community will want to thank him for his faithful service.”
Rick and his wife, Angel, will remain in Waxahachie, where they plan to continue supporting Nelson as volunteers and friends of the university. His new role at David C Cook will allow him to return to his music industry roots while focusing on donor engagement for a global ministry that encompasses Integrity Music, Group Publishing, and Christian book and Bible publishing.
“I am deeply grateful for my years at Nelson and for the incredible team I’ve had the privilege to serve alongside,” said Bowles. “After much prayer, I sensed the Lord leading me into this new season, and I am excited about the opportunity ahead. Angel and I look forward to staying connected to Nelson; this place and community will always be dear to us.”
As Nelson prepares for this leadership transition, the Advancement, Admissions, and Marketing teams will continue to serve at a high level under the guidance of their directors. President Bridges has asked the Nelson community to keep these departments and their leaders in prayer during this interim season.
Nelson University extends its heartfelt gratitude to Rick Bowles for his seven years of dedicated service and lasting impact on the mission of the university.
About Nelson University
Nelson University is a private Christian university located just 30 minutes south of the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas. Founded in 1927, the university offers more than 70 undergraduate and graduate degrees, both on campus and online. Committed to integrating faith and learning, Nelson prepares students to fulfill their God-given callings in a Spirit-empowered community. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or call 1-888-937-7248.