Washington Adventist University President to Transition to New Role

Washington Adventist University (WAU) today announced that President Weymouth Spence, Ed.D., will conclude his tenure as president, effective June 30, 2026, and will transition to a new role, effective July 1, 2026.

In this new role, Dr. Spence will devote his attention to advancing critical campus infrastructure initiatives central to WAU's long-term success. He will build on the momentum of the university’s Vision 2030 plan to drive academic innovation, strengthen partnerships and increase institutional visibility to enhance the learning environment for student success. 

"For 18 years, Dr. Spence has been a steadfast force at Washington Adventist University—steering the institution through periods of meaningful growth, transformation and purpose-driven progress," says Marcellus T. Robinson, WAU Board of Trustees chair. "His ongoing dedication remains invaluable as he advances several key strategic priorities."

Since assuming the presidency on January 2, 2008, Dr. Spence has championed a bold vision centered on academic excellence, mission alignment and workforce readiness. Now he will help advance several development and infrastructure planning initiatives that are already underway and designed to diversify the university’s revenue stream to increase student scholarships, enhance student life, improve campus facilities and expand opportunities for innovation and community engagement.

“Vision 2030 is not simply a plan—it is a commitment to the future of our students, faculty and community,” says Dr. Spence. “This decision allows me to dedicate focused leadership to the transformational campus initiatives that will help position WAU for a better future by seeking sustainable growth and impact.” 

In the interim, the Board of Trustees has asked Cheryl Kisunzu, Ph.D., former WAU provost, to postpone her retirement and serve as interim president, effective July 1, 2026. A committee composed of representatives from WAU's constituent community has been formed to begin the search for a new president.

WAU remains steadfast in its commitment to preparing students for lives of service, leadership and professional excellence while building a campus environment equipped to meet the needs of future generations.

Washington Adventist University is a private university with a liberal arts tradition, offering a dynamic blend of professional and liberal arts programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Founded in scenic Takoma Park in 1904, it is owned by the Seventh-day Adventist Church and provides a Christian education to students of diverse faiths from around the world. Its vision is to produce graduates who bring competence and moral leadership to their communities. Student Success is the highest priority.

To apply or learn more, visit www.wau.edu.