NCU Presidential Leadership Team
Get to know President Williams and the University’s vice presidents.
Meet President Darnell K. Williams, Sr., D.Min.
About President Williams
Dr. Darnell K. Williams Sr. became the ninth president of NCU in May 2025 after a national search process that included extensive interviews, leadership assessments, and discernment led by a board-appointed Presidential Search Committee (PSC). A passionate visionary and longtime advocate for Spirit-led leadership, he previously served as Associate Professor of Pastoral Studies and Executive Director of the Preaching Institute for City Transformation at NCU. Dr. Williams is the first African American president in NCU’s history, bringing to this role more than 30 years of leadership experience in ministry, education, and business.
Dr. Williams has served as Associate Professor of Pastoral Studies at NCU since 2022. He also serves as Director of the grant-funded Preaching Institute for City Transformation, part of Lilly Endowment’s Compelling Preaching Initiative, which fosters preaching that inspires, encourages, and guides individuals in their Christian faith. Dr. Williams has a passion for practical leadership principles, the multiethnic church, and addressing obstacles to those engaged in Urban Ministry.
Dr. Williams was born in Cleveland, Ohio. A lifelong Browns fan, he has been married to Charlene Williams since 1993. They are the proud parents of one adult son, Adrian (Darnell Jr.). Prior to serving as a professor at NCU, Darnell and Charlene spent nearly 30 years of ministry in the role of Lead Pastors, serving churches in Columbus, Ohio (1994-2006) and Lima, Ohio (2006 -2022).
Education:
- D. Min – Assemblies of God Theological Seminary, 2020
- M.A. in Business Management – Regent University, 2006
- B. A. in Pastoral Ministry – Holmes Bible College
Professional Experience:
- Ordained Minister – Assemblies of God
- President – Assemblies of God National Black Fellowship (2025 – Current)
- Associate Professor of Pastoral Studies at North Central University (2022 – Current)
- Executive Director, The Preaching Institute for City Transformation at North Central University (2024 – Current)
- Assemblies of God Executive Presbyter (2019 – 2023)
- Vice President – Assemblies of God National Black Fellowship (2018 – 2024)
- Assemblies of God General Presbyter (2014 – Current)
- Lead Pastor, One Church Lima (2006 – 2022)
- District Secretary-Treasurer, International Ministry Network of the Assemblies of God (2014 – 2020)
- Executive Treasurer – Assemblies of God National Black Fellowship (2013 – 2018)
- Escrow Department Manager, Chase Bank (2004 – 2006)
- Customer Service Quality Coach, Chase Bank (2000 – 2004)
Community Involvement:
- Hospital Chaplain, Lima Memorial Health Systems
- Chaplain, Lima Police Department
Publications & Research:
- Williams Sr., D. K. (2022). Set Up for a Breakthrough – Studies in the Life of Joseph. DK Williams Enterprises: Lima, OH.
- Williams Sr., D. K. (2020). Wings to Rise – Blacks, Leadership and the Assemblies of God. DK Williams Enterprises: Lima, OH.
- Williams Sr., D. K. (2021, January 18). A pipeline for diverse leadership – How churches can build an inclusive team. Influence Magazine. Retrieved from https://influencemagazine.com/en/Practice/A-Pipeline-for-Diversity-Leadership
- Williams Sr., D. K. (2020, July 8). Will there finally be justice? Where we stand shapes what we see – Perspectives on current events from National Black Fellowship Leaders. Influence Magazine. Retrieved from https://influencemagazine.com/en/Practice/Where-We-Stand-Shapes-What-We-See
- Williams Sr., D. K. (2020, August). How to use business models of leadership biblically – Marketplace advice and ministry application. Influence Magazine. Retrieved from https://influencemagazine.com/en/Practice/How-to-Use-Business-Models-of-Leadership-Biblically
- Wood, G. P. (Host). (2021, February 16). Seven steps to diversifying AG leadership [Audio podcast episode]. In Influence. https://influencemagazine.com/en/Podcast/7-Steps-to-Diversifying-AG-Leadership
Professional Affiliation:
- Board Member, Rhodes State College Foundation Board
- Trustees, Evangel University
What initially drew us to North Central was a deep, Spirit-led sense that this was more than just a new opportunity; it felt like a divine appointment. Even with the challenges ahead, I also saw great potential. I believe God isn’t finished with NCU. There’s a new chapter waiting to be written.”
—Dr. Darnell K. Williams Sr.
The President’s Cabinet
Dr. Desirée Libengood, Provost
Dr. Libengood brings thoughtful leadership and a heart for academic excellence to her role as Provost. Formerly Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs, she oversees the university’s academic and athletics programs and leads efforts to enhance spiritual formation, faculty development, student development, and student success across campus.
Kate Ketterling, Vice President of Human Resources and Operations
Kate Ketterling provides strategic leadership for North Central’s human resources, facilities, and operational systems. With a steady hand and deep care for people, she helps ensure the university remains a safe, well-supported place for students, faculty, and staff to thrive.
Bethany Harshbarger, Vice President of Enrollment
As Vice President of Enrollment, Bethany Harshbarger leads student recruitment, admissions, marketing, financial aid, and engagement strategies that support enrollment growth and mission fit. Passionate about seeing students flourish, Bethany plays a vital role in welcoming future leaders to the NCU community.
Kara Lundin, Chief Financial Officer
Kara Lundin brings extensive executive financial experience to her role as CFO. She supports NCU’s financial planning and resource stewardship with wisdom and clarity, helping ensure the long-term sustainability of the university.