Kentucky Wesleyan College President Barton D. Darrell ’84, J.D. has announced the appointment of Matthew Ruark ’09 as vice president of admissions and financial aid, and Eddie Kenny as vice president of advancement.
“Matt and Eddie have proven themselves to be among the best anywhere in their respective areas, and I could not be more proud or more excited that they have both accepted these important positions with Kentucky Wesleyan,” said Darrell. “We are in good leadership hands with these two high level professionals as we continue to build on our momentum in both areas.”Ruark graduated from Wesleyan with a degree in political science and holds a master’s in philanthropic studies from Indiana University. He has been the College’s director of admissions since April 2018. Previously the associate director of admissions, he has been instrumental in leading enrollment growth, including Wesleyan’s largest incoming class in over a decade in fall 2018. Ruark also previously served as assistant director of development and director of alumni relations for the College.
“This is an incredible opportunity and I am excited to build upon recent growth of our student enrollment,” said Ruark. “Everyone knows my passion for Kentucky Wesleyan, and I am fortunate to share that love of my alma mater with prospective students and families.”
Kenny, who has served as interim vice president since September, arrived at Wesleyan in August 2016 as the senior director of alumni relations. He was elevated to executive director of external relations in June 2018, providing leadership and strategic planning for Wesleyan in the areas of alumni and public relations. During his tenure at Wesleyan, Kenny has overseen the growth of alumni engagement initiatives and activities and worked as a member of the institutional branding team to introduce the College’s Branding and Style Guide.
“I am proud to work with a team that is dedicated to telling the story of who we are, what we do and where we are going,” Kenny said. “Our alumni and donors realize the value of their investments in Kentucky Wesleyan, and I look forward to continued relationships with them. We are well positioned to rise to the next level as a vibrant, strong campus, and I am honored to be a part of the exciting future before us.”
