WBS Alum to Become Academic VP at Kingswood

Exciting news about one of our alumni, Dr. Janet Starks!

“Kingswood University is pleased to announce Dr. Janet Starks has been selected as its new vice president for academic affairs, pending board approval.

Giving his wholehearted recommendation, Kingswood’s president, Dr. Stephen Lennox, said, ‘Dr. Starks brings a wealth of skills and experiences to this position. She knows Kingswood very well, having studied and served here in a variety of capacities. She also brings the perspective of serving as a member of the Commission on Accreditation of the Association for Biblical Higher Education.’

Dr. Starks joined the faculty of Kingswood University in 2000 as registrar, a position that she continues to hold today. In 2011, she was also named associate vice president for academic affairs. In these two roles, she ensures the university’s compliance to academic standards for accreditation, gives oversight to Kingswood’s entire curriculum, and helps students navigate program options for meeting graduation requirements.

Janet Starks, an ordained minister of The Wesleyan Church, is a 1982 graduate of Kingswood University. She earned the Master of Divinity degree from Wesley Biblical Seminary (Mississippi) in 1987, and the Doctor of Ministry degree from Acadia University (Nova Scotia) in 2008. The KU professor teaches a variety of courses in history and ministry. She also created and oversees the Student Success Center, a free tutoring and study help service for students.

‘When I stepped on our campus as a student I knew immediately that God had brought me here,’ said Dr. Starks. ‘That sense of being right where God wants me is still true today.’

‘I am honored and humbled to be asked to serve in this position; it is a privilege to serve God, The Wesleyan Church, and Kingswood University,” said Starks. “I look forward to working with a faculty and staff who I already know and deeply respect as we continue to do what we have been doing for 70 years, providing an environment where students can become Christ-like servant leaders for the church around the world.’

Born and raised in England, Dr. Starks considers herself a British Canadian. She and her husband, Rev. Richard Starks, have two adult daughters who are teachers in western Canada.”

Press release from the website of The Wesleyan Church. Used by permission.