Leadership at Wesleyan

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Wesleyan Circle logo with a W and the date of 1836.

Wesleyan's 26th President,

Meaghan Blight

As the twenty-sixth President of Wesleyan College, Meaghan Blight has dedicated herself to strengthening and championing the first college in the world chartered to grant degrees to women. Since taking on the role in July 2022, Blight has focused on fostering relationships within the Wesleyan community and beyond, growing Wesleyan College’s reputation both domestically and internationally.

During her tenure, Wesleyan College has seen significant growth in enrollment, while raising the academic standards and developing programs focused on student well-being and success. As a result of these measures, the college saw double-digit increases in student retention and academic achievement in one academic year.

In just two years, Blight had record setting years, raising over $20 million for Wesleyan College, allowing the school to support its students through the creation of new scholarships, enhanced and refurbished learning environments, and a vibrant campus community. Under her leadership, the college opened the Wesleyan College Leadership Lab in downtown Macon in Fall 2023. This new space for student learning houses the CEO (Creating Equal Opportunities) Leadership Institute, which connects students with leadership, internship, and mentorship opportunities in the Macon community. The following year, Blight reopened the newly renovated Banks Residence Hall after the historic building spent eight years offline.

In 2024, Blight launched a five-year strategic plan aimed at future proofing the college, championing innovative learning for students, and fostering community connections and partnerships.

Beyond her presidential duties, Blight is involved in several boards and committees, including the Boys and Girls Club of Central Georgia, Goodwill Industries of Middle Georgia, the Macon Chamber of Commerce, and the William I.H. and Lula E. Pitts Foundation. She is also a member of the Collegiate Conference of the NCAA’s South President’s Council.

In recognition of her work, Blight was named the Executive Leaders’ Champion of Transformative Change at the Central Georgia Women of Impact Awards, and one of Macon Magazine’s Top 5 under 40 Young Leaders.

 

The President’s EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP TEAM

Dr. Melody Blake

Provost of The College and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Melody BDr. Melody Blake has served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Wesleyan College since 2017. In this key leadership role, she oversees all aspects of the college's academic programs, including guiding the institution's academic vision, nurturing a world-class faculty, and spearheading the development of innovative new programs. 

Prior to her tenure at Wesleyan, she previously held the position of Provost at Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where she honed her skills in academic administration and strategic planning. Her diverse professional background also includes a three-year stint as Vice President of Mission Services at Goodwill of the Heartland, demonstrating her commitment to community service and social impact. Dr. Blake's roots in academia run deep, with two decades of classroom experience teaching developmental and social psychology. This extensive teaching career has given her invaluable insights into student needs and the evolving landscape of higher education, informing her approach to academic leadership. 

A native of California, Dr. Blake's educational journey reflects her commitment to academic excellence. She earned her undergraduate degree from the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), laying the foundation for her future in psychology and education. She then pursued advanced studies at Claremont Graduate University, where she obtained both her master's degree and Ph.D. in social psychology, further developing her expertise in human behavior and cognitive processes. Throughout her career, Dr. Blake has been dedicated to fostering an environment of academic rigor, innovation, and inclusivity. Her leadership at Wesleyan College continues to drive the institution forward, preparing students for success in an ever-changing world while honoring the college's rich traditions and values.

mblake@yyhgy.com


Timothy Klocko

Vice President for Administration, Chief Financial Officer/Treasurer

Time HeadshotTim Klocko is a seasoned financial executive with extensive experience in higher education administration. He holds an M.B.A. with an accounting emphasis and a B.S. in Accounting and Finance from Northwest Missouri State University. Tim is a Certified Public Accountant in the state of Iowa.                         

Currently serving as CFO/Treasurer at Wesleyan College in Macon, GA, Tim oversees the Business Office and Facilities, reporting directly to the President. His previous roles include Vice President for Finance and Administration at Avila University and Stephens College, where he implemented strategic financial initiatives and managed diverse administrative functions.

Throughout his career, Tim has excelled in financial management, budgeting, and operational efficiency within educational institutions. He has a proven track record of implementing cost-saving measures, enhancing financial reporting systems, and fostering collaborative relationships across departments. Tim is dedicated to improving organizational effectiveness and ensuring financial sustainability in higher education. 

tklocko@yyhgy.com 


Drew Davidson

Vice President for Enrollment, Marketing and Communications

Drew DPrior to her role at Wesleyan, Drew Davidson served as Associate Vice President of Marketing & Communications at Huron University College in London, Ontario. Davidson led the development and implementation of Huron’s marketing and communications strategies supporting recruitment, career development, fundraising, and student services.

Before Huron, Davidson was the Corporate Social Responsibility – Education Program Lead at IBM. She also spent several years working in the Government of Ontario, advising two premiers and three cabinet ministers on internal and external communications. Within government, she has held senior roles such as Chief of Staff to the Minister of Child and Youth Services, Chief of Staff to the Government House Leader, Director of Communications in the Ministry of Finance, and Issues Manager for the Premier of Ontario.

Davidson has led speechwriting and executive communications projects and handled many large-scale multimedia marketing campaigns throughout her career. 

ddavidson@yyhgy.com


Sarah McCarthy

Vice President for Institutional Advancement

Sarah McCarthyPrior to serving Wesleyan, Sarah McCarthy worked at Huron University in London, Ontario, where she led alumni relations and fundraising since March 2020.

Before joining Huron, McCarthy led development operations at the top business school in Canada, Ivey Business School. She joined Ivey in 2003 and led prospect research and management before becoming Director of Advancement Operations, where she oversaw research, gift processing, donor stewardship, and records. She has worked in development for more than 25 years, including roles in the annual fund, alumni relations and corporate and foundation relations at Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts, and the State Universities of New York at Binghamton and Albany.

Sarah has served as a member of the board of the Association of Professional Researchers for Advancement – Canada and currently serves as a volunteer at the Association of Professional Fundraisers – London, Ontario & Region.

She is the recipient of several awards, including the APRA Canada Award for Prospect Research, the APRA International Researcher of the Year Award, and the CCAE Prix d’Excellence Award in Donor Relations. In addition, Sarah authored a chapter in the book Prospect Research in Canada.

Sarah earned a BA degree in English magna cum laude from Siena College (Albany, NY) and a Master of Public Administration degree from Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy, the State University of New York at Albany. 

smccarthy@yyhgy.com


Dr. Carrie Ingoldsby

Vice President for Student Affairs, Dean of Students

Carrie ICarrie was the Executive Director of Campus Life and Student Involvement at Mercer University for almost thirteen years, where she was responsible for overseeing all areas within the Campus Life Office. Before her time at Mercer, Carrie served as the Assistant Director of Campus Activities at Bucknell University for 4 years.

Throughout her career, Carrie has been committed to increasing student involvement and enhancing the student experience by providing campus engagement, service, and leadership opportunities. As part of engagement and belonging efforts, Carrie also focuses on the safety, health and wellness of all students.

Carrie earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Trinity University (San Antonio, TX), a Master of Science in Education – Student Services Administration from Baylor University (Waco, TX), and a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Mercer University. She is a two-time recipient of the Barry Jenkins Award for Outstanding Contributions to Mercer Student Life and a proud member of the Leadership Macon class of 2015.

cingoldsby@yyhgy.com

Katina Cabiness

Chief Diversity Officer

Katina CPreviously at GEICO for 31 years, she demonstrated remarkable leadership qualities, ascending from customer service representative to Corporate HR Diversity Equity and Inclusion Leader.

In addition to her DEI experience, Katina has held managerial roles in HR Compliance, Talent Development, Regional Management Training, and Underwriting Management.

Her commitment to community service is evident through her involvement as an Advisory Board member of DECA at Central High School and the ERIC Foundation. Katina is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. where she mentors young adults at the Macon Youth Detention Center (YDC).  She is also the co-founder of the Kiersten Nicole Heart Foundation and volunteers with numerous diverse organizations throughout the community and state.

She is a proud Wesleyan Alumnae in which she obtained her Executive MBA, BS in Business Administration and Certificate in Business Management.  Katina also has a Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion from the University of South Florida and numerous other professional and doctoral designations. 

kcabiness@yyhgy.com


Julie Daniel

Chief Human Resources and Compliance Officer

Julie DJulie Daniel is an accomplished Human Resource Executive with a distinguished career marked by strategic leadership and transformative HR initiatives. Currently serving as the Chief Human Resources and Compliance Officer at Wesleyan College since 2022, Julie oversees the institution's HR strategies, employee relations, leadership development, and compliance efforts. Her role is pivotal in fostering a culture that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion while driving operational excellence.

Julie's career spans various industries, including her tenure as the Director of Corporate Human Resources at Quantum Dynamics, Inc., where she orchestrated comprehensive HR operations, streamlined policies, and bolstered employee engagement through innovative programs. Prior to this, as the Chief Human Resources Officer at River Edge Behavioral Health, she managed a sizable workforce, implementing strategic HR initiatives and overseeing compliance with a focus on enhancing organizational effectiveness.

Julie holds a Master's in Organizational Leadership from Trevecca Nazarene University and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Middle Georgia State University. She is recognized for her expertise and holds certifications as a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) since 2013 and a Certified Professional by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM-CP) since 2015.

Throughout her career, Julie Daniel has been dedicated to advancing HR practices, driving organizational growth, and championing initiatives that empower employees and uphold organizational values. Her commitment to excellence and her strategic approach continue to define her impactful contributions to the field of Human Resources.

jdaniel@yyhgy.com


Dr. Ken Blair

Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives

Ken headshotOver the past decade, Dr. Ken Blair has distinguished himself as an innovative and energetic leader focused on student success in higher education. In 2020, he served in the role of Director of the First-Year Experience (FYE) program at Wesleyan College. Under his guidance, the FYE expanded its programming to better support first-year and first-generation students transitioning from high school to college.

In 2022, Dr. Blair was appointed Director of Strategic Initiatives at Wesleyan College. In this capacity, he developed new projects and strategies for growth, significantly enhancing the college's visibility within the community and forging effective partnerships with various organizations and individuals. In 2024, he was promoted to Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives, where he continues to lead strategic operations and oversee recruitment for the college's graduate and online programs.

Dr. Blair's career began at Mercer University in 2014, where he served as an Associate Director in the Office of Student Financial Planning. He transitioned to Mercer's student affairs department in 2017, working as an educational specialist, academic coordinator, and advisor for the university's TRiO programs.

Dr. Blair holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Leadership from Mercer University, a Master of Business Administration from Brenau University, and a doctorate in Higher Education Administration and Educational Leadership from Liberty University.

kblair@yyhgy.com


Ryan Bliss

Executive Director of Recruitment

RyanRyan Bliss is the Executive Director of Recruitment. His role focuses on shaping recruitment strategies to increase domestic and international enrollment, and fostering partnerships to support current student success. Ryan also serves as the coach for the Wesleyan Wolves softball program. Ryan was hired by Wesleyan in January of 2023 and has previously filled roles in Sports Information and Athletic Administration within the College.

From 2019 to 2022, Ryan played a key role at Bryant & Stratton College, helping launch both the softball and baseball programs starting as pitching coach and sports information director in 2019. The Bobcats baseball team secured an OCCAC championship in 2020, with both Conference Pitcher of the Year Candidates coming from his staff. After the baseball program’s success in 2020 he was named head softball coach leading a previously winless team to 11-wins during his only season as head coach. As director of sports information Ryan enhanced the athletic department's visibility by developing social media strategies and implementing live streaming for athletics, while ensuring NJCAA compliance.

In addition to his collegiate experience Ryan helped found and operated Mavericks Fastpitch, a youth softball organization designed to provide a competitive and educational environment for young athletes. The organization grew to eight teams and 100 athletes before being sold in 2022 to a reputable company that has continued its expansion. As a collegiate athlete, Ryan was part of the 2015 NCAC Champion Oberlin Yeomen Baseball team earning all-tournament honors for his efforts, and spent a season coaching and playing for the Northern Districts Reds of the SABL in Adelaide, Australia where he was named the Division 2 League MVP. 

Ryan holds a Bachelor's Degree from Oberlin College with a focus in Neuroscience and Religion and is currently pursuing his Masters of Business Administration from Wesleyan College.

rbliss@yyhgy.com


Seth Berkebile

Athletic Director

Seth BSeth Berkebile is an accomplished athletic professional currently serving as the Athletic Director at Wesleyan College in Macon, GA. With a robust background in sports management and coaching, Seth brings extensive experience in overseeing all facets of athletic operations and development.

As the Athletic Director since April 2023, Seth has spearheaded initiatives to enhance recruitment strategies, streamline departmental operations, and foster collaborations across campus departments. His leadership has been pivotal in crafting a comprehensive 3-year growth plan for Wesleyan's athletics, aligning budget planning with fiscal goals, and advancing athletic facilities through strategic partnerships with the Advancement team.

Prior to his role as Athletic Director, Seth served as the Interim Athletic Director, demonstrating his ability to implement effective systems for recruiting, coordinate departmental meetings, and strengthen faculty relationships. His dedication to compliance with NCAA regulations is evident through his active participation in NCAA DIII webinars and involvement in a committee for NCAA self-study.

Before transitioning into administration, Seth made significant contributions as the Head Women's Soccer Coach at Wesleyan College, where he elevated the program's performance and academic standing. His coaching tenure was marked by notable achievements such as managing a successful recruitment drive resulting in the program's largest freshman class in five years, and achieving a team GPA of 3.1 after the first year.

Seth's career in athletics is underpinned by his educational background, holding a B.S. in History from Georgia Southern University. He has furthered his coaching credentials with a USSF National C License and USC Performance Analysis Special Topics Diploma, underscoring his commitment to continuous professional development.

sberkebile@yyhgy.com


Jessica Tucker

Director of the President's Office and Trustee Relations

Jessica TJessica Tucker is a higher education professional with a strong background in administration and student services. She holds a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration from Georgia Southern University and a Master of Education in Health Promotion from Georgia College & State University. Jessica also earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Education with a concentration in Community Health and Human Services from Georgia College & State University.

Jessica's career spans various roles in academic advising, enrollment management, and executive administration. Currently serving as Director of the President’s Office and Trustee Relations at Wesleyan College since June 2023, she strategically manages the President’s schedule and facilitates communication across departments. She also oversees the President’s budget and plays a crucial role in board meeting preparations. Jessica previously served as Director of Enrollment Services and the Enrollment Coordinator at Wesleyan College, where she excelled in recruiting and advising transfer, online, and nursing students.

Prior to Wesleyan College, Jessica worked as an Academic Advisor II at Georgia College & State University, where she advised a diverse student population in nursing and public health programs and taught First-Year Academic Seminar courses.

Jessica is passionate about student success and has served in various leadership capacities, including as a Title IX Advisor and Investigator. She has also contributed to curriculum development and currently teaches the Professional Development courses at Wesleyan as an adjunct professor.

jtucker@yyhgy.com

PAST PRESIDENTS OF WESLEYAN COLLEGE

George F. Pierce 1836-1840 
William H. Ellison 1840-1851 
Edwards H. Myers 1851-1854 
Osborne L. Smith 1854-1859 
John M. Bonnell 1859-1871 
Edward H. Myers 1871-1874 
William C. Bass 1874-1894 
Edgar H. Rowe 1894-1896 
John D. Hammond 1896-1898 
William J. Roberts 1898-1903
Dupont Guerry 1903-1909 
William N. Ainsworth 1909-1912 
Charles R. Jenkins 1912-1920 
William F. Quillian 1920-1931 
Dice R. Anderson 1931-1941 
J. Arthur Moore 1941-1942 
N. C. McPherson, Jr. 1942-1946 
Silas Johnson 1946-1951 
William F. Quillian (Acting) 1951-1952 
B. Joseph Martin 1953-1959 
W. Earl Strickland 1960-1979 
Fred W. Hicks 1979-1983 
J. Fredrick Wilson (Acting) 1983-1984 
Robert K. Ackerman 1984-1997 
Nora Kizer Bell 1997-2002
Ruth A. Knox '75 (Acting) 2002-2003 
Ruth A. Knox '75 2003-2017
Vivia L. Fowler 2017-2022

Calendar of Events

Wesleyan College is privileged to steward many arts and cultural events and share them with the community. Most are free and open to the public. Wesleyan art galleries are open M-F 1-5PM and on Wesleyan Market Saturdays from 10AM-2PM.

Event listing

NCAA Division III Athletics

Wesleyan College is home to five NCAA Division III sports: soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and softball. In addition, we offer an award-winning Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) Equestrian program.

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