Peru, Nebraska – Peru State College is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Wendy Waugh as the new Vice President of Academic Affairs. With an extensive background in academics and a vast record of leadership, Waugh will play a pivotal role in advancing the college's academic mission and enhancing the student learning experience.

Dr. Waugh will oversee the college's academic programs, faculty development, curriculum enhancement, and strategic planning. With a commitment to fostering innovation, academic excellence, and a student-centered approach, Waugh is poised to lead Peru State College toward new heights of educational achievement and growth.

"I am thrilled that Dr. Waugh will be joining the Peru State community,” said Dr. Michael Evans, President. "Her experience in academic leadership, and her experience with the Nebraska State College System, will be an outstanding asset for the College. I am looking forward to her collaboration and contributions as we continue to develop the best possible academic experience for our students.”

Dr. Wendy Waugh comes to Peru State with 32 years of experience in higher education, with the last four years in higher education administration. Prior to joining Peru State, she served as the Dean of Graduate and Adult Programs at Nebraska Wesleyan University, where she led the administration and expansion of graduate programs. Wendy’s visionary leadership and collaborative approach have consistently garnered praise and produced transformative outcomes.

Her previous appointment was the Dean of Graduate Studies and the School of Business, Mathematics, and Science at Chadron State College. While at CSC, Dr. Waugh coordinated curriculum, accreditation, policy, staffing, schedules, and graduate programs. She also served as Department Chair for the Business Academy and taught graduate and undergraduate MBA courses. She has presented at national conferences and published many journal articles.

"It is an honor to be selected to serve Peru State College as its next VPAA and to be rejoining the Nebraska State College System. I genuinely appreciate the time Dr. Evans and the hiring committee have put into the process and was humbled to be chosen,” said Dr. Wendy Waugh. “I am truly excited to be joining this dedicated administrative team and look forward to working collaboratively with the faculty, staff, and students of Peru State.” 

Dr. Wendy Waugh holds a Ph.D. in Organization & Management; Information Technology Management Specialization from Capella University, an MBA from Chadron State College, an MSE in Education (Business Specialization) from the University of Nebraska – Kearney, a BA in Secondary Education, and BS in Management, Electronic Data Processing from Wayne State College. 

Please extend a warm welcome to Dr. Wendy Waugh as she assumes the V.P. of Academic Affairs role on September 11, 2023.

Nestled in the hills of historic southeast Nebraska, Peru State College offers a mix of innovative online and traditional classroom undergraduate and graduate programs, including online graduate degrees. 

Established in 1867 as Nebraska’s first college, Peru State has transformed over the past century and a half into a state-of-the-art institution offering diverse, multifaceted educational programs annually to nearly 2,000 students.