Credo is pleased to announce Blair Dowden, Ed.D., as a new Senior Affiliate Consultant in our Leadership Strategies division. Dr. Dowden is a seasoned higher education leadership veteran, having served almost 40 years at independent institutions around the country. As a Credo Senior Affiliate, Dr. Dowden will work with colleges on presidential assessments, leadership retreats, fundraising, strategic planning and presidential coaching.
Dr. Dowden served as president of Huntington University from 1991 to 2013 and was named President Emeritus upon his retirement. During his tenure at Huntington, enrollment and awareness of the university grew substantially. Dr. Dowden also served on a number of higher education and community boards and as a member of several accreditation teams. Prior to his service as president of Huntington, Dr. Dowden was the Vice President for Development at Houghton College from 1984 – 1991, where he led the first comprehensive campaign in the college’s history. During his career he has also held positions in other major administrative areas including enrollment, finance, academics and student development. Blair is the author of several book chapters and articles and has given numerous presentations on diverse topics at national and regional conferences.
Since his retirement from full-time service at Huntington, Dr. Dowden remains active in higher education, conducting presidential reviews and assisting with fund-raising and planning on college and university campuses. He also has completed multiple consultations through his association with LRAP, the Loan Repayment Assistance Plan. He has been a consultant and mentor to numerous college presidents and colleges.
A graduate of Wheaton College, Dr. Dowden earned both his Master of Arts and Doctor of Education degree at Ball State University.
Tim Fuller, Senior Vice President at Credo, is especially excited about this partnership with Dr. Dowden. “Dr. Dowden is a trusted partner with extensive experience in the independent college niche Credo serves. We are honored to welcome him to the Credo family, and we look forward to the positive impact Dr. Dowden will have on our partner campuses across the country.”