Welcome to William Penn University and to the newly re-designed website. William Penn is growing – adding new buildings, new programs, new students (enrollment exceeded our goal), and new ways to engage the community. In the words of Bob Dylan, “the times they are a-changin’.”

This ends my first quarter as interim president. I don’t claim to be a genius or a great leader. What I have to offer is a passion for learning and a desire to get things done. William Penn University has a Quaker heritage of providing education to those who traditionally do not have access to higher education, and I want to continue that tradition. First I want more than just providing education; I want students to develop a love of life-long learning. Second, I have a desire to get things done, to grow William Penn University to meet the educational demands of today’s business and industry. Getting things done includes harnessing technology to expand the educational opportunities that Penn provides. Third and last, I pledge to uphold the mission of the institution, which is: 

William Penn University provides the opportunity for

an educational experience  with a focus on leadership, technology,

and the Quaker principles of simplicity, peace-making,

integrity, community, and equality.

Just as the world is changing, so is higher education – and changing rapidly. I’m proud to be part of that change. The College of Working Adults has a new location at 6000 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines, and the traditional campus has two new buildings – the Penn Activity Center and the Musco Technology Center. But the changes are more than a new building for CWA and two new buildings for the traditional campus. The changes encompass new programs as we expand our traditional programs – digital broadcasting, a RN to BSN degree program, a human services major, a music education endorsement, a marching band and bowling programs. Our CWA now touts a certificate in human resource management and a master’s degree in business leadership. In the near future we are looking forward to offering Criminology Leadership, new partnerships with the insurance industry as we promote an insurance minor on the traditional campus and an insurance emphasis for CWA, and a new delivery system – going online. We’re changing education and learning, but the most important change is a change of attitude. William Penn University is positioning itself to be a dynamic force in the future – providing leaders and living up to its mission.

Once again, I want to thank the board of trustees for its confidence in me. I promise to do my best and will continue to promote life-long learning, to work hard to get things done, and to fulfill the mission of the university. And yes, hang on, “for the times they are a-changin’.”

Ann M. Fields, Ph.D.

Interim President