Dordt University currently has a leadership team of eight who report to the president and oversee the administrative and academic functions of the institution.
Chief of Staff and Dean of Chapel
Aaron Baart is an alumnus of Dordt and came back to serve at Dordt in 2010. As the Chief of Staff, Baart coordinates strategic efforts among the senior leadership team. He also serves as Dean of Chapel, where he leads the Campus Ministries team, helping students develop spiritually through chapel, small groups, mission trips, and other areas.
Vice President of University Advancement
As the Vice President of University Advancement, John Baas is responsible for the leadership of the institutional advancement program at Dordt. This involves leading the development team in partnership with donors, capital campaigns, and other events.
Vice President for Finance and Risk Management
Stephanie Baccam is an alumna of Dordt University and leads our Business Office in stewarding our resources and making forward-thinking financial decisions. Baccam also leads university investments and financial aid processes.
Athletic Director
Ross Douma has served at Dordt for over 10 years. As Athletic Director, Douma provides overall leadership for all intercollegiate athletic programs, ensuring that they align with Dordt’s mission. Douma also serves as the president of the Defender Gold Club, Dordt’s athletic support base of donors and supporters. He also serves as the liaison with the GPAC Conference and NAIA.
Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing
Brandon Huisman is an alumnus of Dordt and has been serving at Dordt since 2013. Huisman oversees many of our externally facing departments including the Admissions Office, marketing and communication team, and alumni and parent relations. He also leads our on-campus media outlet, Dordt Media Network broadcasting.
Vice President for Student Success and Dean of Students
Robert Taylor is an alumnus of Dordt and has spent over 20 years serving on our Student Services team. As Vice President for Student Success and Dean of Students, Taylor walks alongside Student Services, Campus Health and Counseling Services, the Academic Enrichment Center, and Career Development Center. He also oversees student success and works with Title IX on campus.
Vice President for University Operations
Howard Wilson has served at Dordt University since 2013. He is responsible for the physical and day-to-day operations of the Dordt campus. This includes Facilities and Grounds, Human Resources, Computer Services, Auxiliary Services, and Student Employment. Wilson also leads new capital projects, is Dordt’s legal liaison, and leads the Crisis Management team.
Vice President for Academic Affairs
Dr. Leah Zuidema serves as the Vice President for Academic Affairs, leading the university in the central learning tasks of the institution and serving as the chief academic officer. The VPAA provides guidance, encouragement, and accountability to faculty and academic staff of the university in order to equip students, alumni, and the broader community to work effectively for Christ-centered renewal in all areas of life. Dr. Zuidema is responsible for Dordt University’s traditional, online, and graduate academic programs.
Learn more about the Leadership Team members.
