11-02-2025
Higher-education veteran Scott Moats appointed Anderson University president
ANDERSON — Scott Moats, a veteran of higher education, has been appointed by the Anderson University Board of Trustees as the university's sixth president.
Moats will begin serving as AU's chief operating officer March 1, 2025, and will become president June 1, 2025.
John Pistole, AU's current president, announced his retirement in August 2024. Pistole will officially retire May 31 after serving as president for a decade.
Moats expressed excitement about leading Anderson University.
'It is an honor to become Anderson University's sixth president and serve as COO in the interim,' Dr. Moats said in an AU press release. 'I am inspired by AU's century-long commitment to Christ-centered education and its legacy of developing leaders who impact the world for God's kingdom.
'My wife, Sheryl, and I look forward to becoming part of the Anderson community and serving alongside its dedicated faculty, staff and students.'
Moats has more than 30 years of higher education experience, including leadership and academic roles. He also served as a consultant, evaluator and accreditation liaison officer for the Higher Learning Commission, an independent agency with a mission to 'advance the common good through quality assurance of higher education as the leader in equitable, transformative and trusted accreditation in the service of students and member institutions,' according to its website.
Moats earned a Ph.D in educational policy and administration from the University of Minnesota, as well as an MBA from Crown College and an from Alliance Theological Seminary.
Pistole's tenure at Anderson University has been marked by several curriculum expansions that have allowed the university to become more influential in the fields of cybersecurity and engineering. AU has added 17 new undergraduate majors, along with certificate offerings, a biblical studies certificate fully in Spanish and a master's degree in organizational leadership.
Pistole said Moats will be a good fit for AU.
'Dr. Moats' expertise, vision and faith-driven leadership will be a tremendous asset to the university,' Pistole said. 'As I prepare to retire, I am confident that Anderson University is in capable hands and will continue to thrive under his guidance. His dedication to Christian higher education ensures a seamless transition, and I look forward to seeing how God uses him to lead this institution into its next season.'
