Faculty and staff welcomed Dr. Knapp on his first day.

A new era started at Hope on July 1, 2013 with the beginning of the presidency of Dr. John C. Knapp.

President Knapp succeeds Dr. James E. Bultman, who has retired after serving as president since 1999.

Dr. Knapp’s selection as Hope’s 12th president was announced in March. He brings to Hope experience in higher education and business. His scholarship has included multiple books and articles on leadership ethics, issues in higher education, and the intersection of faith and work. Immediately prior to coming to Hope, he served at Samford University in Birmingham, Ala., where he was director of the Frances Marlin Mann Center for Ethics and Leadership and the University Professor and Mann Family Professor of Ethics and Leadership.

The college’s 152nd academic year will begin on Tuesday, Aug. 27. The inauguration of President Knapp will take place on Friday, Oct. 4, in conjunction with the college’s Homecoming Weekend.