On March 31, NRB member Liberty University appointed Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Dondi E. Costin, Ph. D., as president, and Pastor Jonathan Falwell, son of the late Jerry Falwell, Sr., founder of Liberty University, as chancellor.
“As one whose life and ministry have been profoundly shaped by Liberty University, I can think of no educational institution with more global impact than my two-time alma mater. I am beyond grateful to the Board for entrusting me with this extraordinary opportunity,” said Costin in a statement. “Vickey and I look forward to locking arms with the Liberty family as we honor the University’s past and drive toward its future. With God’s help and for His glory, the very best days of our great University are still ahead of us.”
Costin comes to Liberty with a distinguished record of public service. He served as the President of Charleston Southern University, where he oversaw academic and athletic accomplishments, including the expansion of several new facilities, academic programs, and fundraising efforts. He was also the President of the Big South Conference. Previously, Costin served in the U.S. Air Force for 32 years, reaching the rank of Major General and serving as Air Force Chief of Chaplains. He has received several military decorations, including the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, and Bronze Star Medal. Costin holds multiple degrees, including a Ph.D. in organizational leadership.
Pastor Falwell has an extensive background with Thomas Road Baptist Church and Liberty University, having served at the former for almost three decades and as its senior pastor since 2007. Additionally, he has been a member of the Board of Trustees at Liberty University for over 30 years and has held positions such as vice chancellor for spiritual affairs and executive vice president for spiritual affairs/campus pastor. Pastor Falwell is a two-time alumnus of Liberty University and has earned a juris doctor degree. Apart from his church ministry, he has also found success as an entrepreneur, an author, a commercial pilot, and a published photographer. His long-standing affiliation with Liberty University has provided him with a wealth of experience that he brings to his role as Chancellor.
“With this transition we are recommitting our institution to its founding, and singular, mission: Training Champions for Christ. I look forward to serving alongside our exceptionally qualified new president to impact more lives than ever before with Christ-centered education,” said Falwell.
