Dr. Gene Crume
Gene Crume is in his 12th year serving as President of Judson University.
Dr. Crume led the University through its first comprehensive strategic planning process, which was completed in February 2019. During his tenure, Judson created its first doctoral programs, developed ten other academic programs, and acquired the Ambria College of Nursing.
Judson has also added innovative programs such as R.I.S.E., which is a two-year, on-campus, residential certification program for intellectually differently-abled young people to attend college. Intercollegiate athletics has also grown with the addition of football, men’s and women’s bowling and men’s volleyball. The World Leaders Forum, Judson’s premier fundraising event that brings global leaders to the community, has grown during President Crume’s tenure resulting in over $3 million dollars raised, scholarships for over 50+ students, and over 5,000 people attending the WLF events. Fundraising has also grown during President Crume’s tenure with multiple $1 million plus gifts, increases in annual giving, and broader development of Judson’s donor base.
Dr. Crume spent a significant portion of his career at his alma mater, Western Kentucky University. He also served at Tidewater Community College in Virginia, Park University in Missouri, Midland Lutheran College in Nebraska and the Indiana State University Foundation. He has served on international, national, state and local boards, and he speaks regularly on leadership, education, communication and culture. He teaches a class each semester, and he serves as the Advisor to the Roeser Leadership Scholars at Judson.
Dr. Crume earned his B.A. degree in Public Relations and a Master’s in Communications from Western Kentucky. His Ph.D. is in Education from the University of Virginia. He is married to Cindy Smith Crume, and they have two married children – Alexandra (Grant) Hacherl and Gene (Mika) Crume III – and one grandchild, Benjamin Ray Hacherl.
President Crume’s personal interests include reading, music, performing and visual arts (especially cartooning), sports, mascots, and experiences (like climbing Kilimanjaro in 2004).
Campus News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Elgin, IL – Judson University will host its 2024 commencement ceremonies on Saturday, December 14th, at Herrick Chapel on the University’s campus. This year’s commencement will feature two ceremonies: one at 10:00 a.m. and another at 2:00 p.m. Doors will open for guests at 9:00 a.m. for the morning ceremony and 1:00 p.m. for
Keep Reading “Judson University Announces December Commencement Speaker”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Elgin, IL – October 24, 2024 – Judson University’s Department of Education hosted its annual Interview Night, formerly known as “Mock Interview Night,” on October 23, 2024. This event, part of the Senior Seminar that goes with Student Teaching, provided eight graduating seniors with an exclusive opportunity to connect with school administrators actively
Keep Reading “Judson University Education Students Gain Valuable Career Opportunities at Annual Interview Night”
Elgin, IL — Judson University proudly celebrates Colleen Maher, a trailblazing graduate of its RISE (Road to Independent Living, Spiritual Formation, and Employment) program, who recently delivered a powerful keynote address at RAMP’s 33rd Annual “Changing Attitudes, Breaking Barriers” Luncheon held in Rockford, Illinois. This October event, hosted by RAMP Disability Resources and Services, drew the
Keep Reading “Judson University RISE Graduate Delivered Keynote at RAMP’s “Changing Attitudes, Breaking Barriers” Luncheon”
Elgin, IL – In a moment of well-deserved recognition that highlights her unwavering commitment to student health and well-being, Kristina Browne, Judson University’s Campus Healthcare Coordinator, has been awarded the prestigious Partners in Peace Award by the Community Crisis Center. Browne’s compassion, deep care for students and staff, and exceptional leadership during health crises have
Keep Reading “Kristina Browne Honored with Partners in Peace Award for Dedication and Compassion at Judson University”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Elgin, IL / Wake Forest, NC — On Monday, October 15, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina, announced the renaming of its undergraduate program to Judson College at Southeastern, in honor of pioneering Baptist missionary Adoniram Judson (1788-1850). This decision reflects the seminary’s commitment to theological education in service of the
Keep Reading “Judson University Clarifies Naming Distinction: Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Renames Undergraduate Program to Judson College”
World Leaders Forum proudly held its 3rd Annual Charity Golf Outing to raise funds for its transformative RISE Program, a unique initiative that offers students with intellectual disabilities the chance to experience a full, enriching college life. Held at picturesque Bull Valley Golf Club in Woodstock, Illinois, the event brought together community members, sponsors, and
Keep Reading “World Leaders Forum Hosts 3rd Charity Golf Outing to Support RISE Program”