Alex Bryan's inauguration at Walla Walla University
On Tuesday, November 12, 2024 Walla Walla University inaugurated its 24th president, Alex Bryan.
The inauguration featured remarks from dignitaries, musical performances, and the inaugural ceremony. Events reflected God's powerful leading during Walla Walla University's 132-year history, and our important role in building faith well into the future.
Inauguration festivities included
Distinguished Faculty Lecture
Sunday, November 10
7 p.m., Fine Arts Center
David Cowles, professor of biology, presented Walla Walla University's 2024 Distinguished Faculty Lecture. Cowles is interested in marine biology, ecological physiology, and physiology of marine and freshwater species—especially marine crustaceans.
View a list of past presenters, and see their presentations at dos5.net/dfl.
Department of Visual Arts: Past, Present, Future (open to the community)
Tuesday, November 12
8 p.m., Clyde and Mary Harris Gallery
The gallery featured the visual arts department and the work of its former professors.
Inauguration banquet
Monday, November 11
6 p.m. Winter Educational Complex Alumni Gymnasium
President's Office dedication
Tuesday, November 12
9 a.m., President's Office
Inauguration ceremony
Tuesday, November 12
11 a.m., WWU Church
Walla Walla University faculty, staff, and students joined friends of the university from near and far for remarks from dignitaries, musical performances, and the inaugural ceremony.
Meet Alex Bryan
Alex Bryan was inaugurated as Walla Walla University's 24th president on Tuesday, Nov. 12. Bryan assumed WWU’s presidency on the first of July, succeeding John McVay, who had served for the past 18 years.
Bryan and his family have lived in College Place since 2009 when he became the senior pastor at Walla Walla University Church. In 2013 he became president of Kettering College (Ohio) for a year, then returned to Walla Walla University Church. In 2018 Alex joined Adventist Health (Roseville, Calif.), where he served as senior vice president and chief mission officer.
Alex earned bachelor of arts degrees in history and religion from Southern Adventist University (Collegedale, Tenn.), a master of divinity degree from Andrews University (Berrien Springs, Mich.), a doctor of ministry degree from George Fox University (Newberg, Ore.), and a master of science degree in bioethics from Albany Medical College (Albany, N.Y.).
Nicole Ward Bryan, Alex’s wife, earned a bachelor of arts degree in English from Walla Walla University and a master’s degree in education from Georgia State University (Atlanta, Ga.). While a student at Walla Walla University, she served as president of the Associated Students of Walla Walla University. Alex and Nicole have two children, Audrey and William.