Graceland University Welcomes Its 19th President
Graceland University has officially named Dr. Joel Shrock as its 19th president, opening a new chapter for the institution. With more than three decades in higher education, he brings seasoned leadership and a steady hand to the role. It’s a moment of continuity and fresh energy, both at once.
About Dr. Joel Shrock
Dr. Shrock knows Graceland well. He joined the university in 2022 as Vice President for Academic Affairs and later stepped in as Interim President following the resignation of Dr. Patricia Draves. Before arriving at Graceland, he spent years as a professor of history at Anderson University in Indiana, a tenure that reflects his commitment to teaching, mentoring, and student success. Those experiences shaped the practical, people-first approach he brings to the presidency.
Vision for Graceland University
What drew him here? As he put it, “Graceland has a unique spirit that captured my attention. The university’s diverse student body and commitment to innovation embody the values I hold dear.” Leading Graceland, for him, is a chance to align his own aspirations with the university’s mission—keeping students at the center and innovation close at hand.
That alignment showed up early in concrete ways. Dr. Shrock championed a second major for all students in transformational leadership and helped launch a Doctor of Physical Therapy program. The DPT offering is a hybrid model that emphasizes hands-on learning in the Kansas City metropolitan area, underscoring Graceland’s focus on relevant, real-world preparation.
Commitment to Academic Excellence
As president, Dr. Shrock continues to push for academic excellence while cultivating a campus culture grounded in community and diversity. His approach is proactive: developing growth plans for faculty programs, personally onboarding new team members, and building momentum across departments. The university’s Board of Trustees cited his strong background and clear vision in making a unanimous selection—confidence earned through action as much as words.
Guiding Graceland Forward
Board Chair Mike Wiley summed up that confidence: “Joel’s enthusiasm and vision for the future gives us the utmost confidence that he is the right person for this role at this particular time for Graceland.” It’s a vote of trust that reflects the collaborative spirit the university encourages among students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends of the institution.
Values matter to Dr. Shrock. He’s committed to an academic environment shaped by the principles of Graceland’s sponsoring church, Community of Christ. “I appreciate how connected Graceland is to the values of Community of Christ. I look forward to ensuring that Graceland represents these values in our community and beyond,” he said. His leadership centers on the student experience—creating welcoming spaces and meaningful opportunities for every learner.
Looking Ahead
He sees Graceland as more than classrooms and credits. It’s a place to build connections that last and to find a lifelong curiosity for learning. “Curiosity about ourselves and the world around us is a guiding principle for us at Graceland, and I’m eager to work with our talented faculty and committed staff on this journey,” he said. The aim is simple and ambitious: cultivate an education that’s rigorous, rooted in community, and ready for what comes next.
All told, Dr. Joel Shrock’s appointment has sparked genuine enthusiasm across campus. With his deep experience, steady leadership, and a shared vision for a thriving academic community, Graceland is well positioned to strengthen an already impactful model of education—now and in the years ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Dr. Joel Shrock?
He is Graceland University’s 19th president, a veteran higher education leader with more than 30 years of experience who previously served as Interim President and as Vice President for Academic Affairs.
What positions did he hold before becoming president?
Dr. Shrock joined Graceland in 2022 as Vice President for Academic Affairs, became Interim President after the resignation of Dr. Patricia Draves, and earlier served as a professor of history at Anderson University in Indiana.
What early initiatives has he led at Graceland?
He launched a second major for all students in transformational leadership and helped establish a hybrid Doctor of Physical Therapy program that emphasizes hands-on learning in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
What values guide his leadership?
His approach emphasizes academic excellence, community, and diversity, with a clear connection to the principles of Community of Christ and a focus on welcoming, student-centered learning environments.
What can the campus expect moving forward?
Continued momentum: growth plans for faculty programs, personal attention to onboarding new team members, stronger student connections, and a culture that nurtures curiosity alongside high academic standards.
