The North Central University (NCU) Board of Regents has announced the selection of Dr. Darnell K. Williams, Sr., D.Min., as the university’s eighth president, following a nationwide search. Williams will officially assume the presidency this spring following commencement exercises, succeeding Interim President Doug Graham ’86, D.Min., who has led the university through a season of transition with strength and stability.
Williams has served as Associate Professor of Pastoral Studies at NCU since 2022. He also serves as Director of the grant-funded Preaching Institute for City Transformation, part of Lilly Endowment’s Compelling Preaching Initiative, which aims to foster preaching that inspires, encourages, and guides individuals in their Christian faith.
Bringing more than three decades of leadership experience in ministry, education, and organizational governance, Williams was confirmed as the next president by the Board after a national search process that included extensive interviews, leadership assessments, and discernment led by a board-appointed Presidential Search Committee (PSC).
“During the search process, the Presidential Search Committee was able to meet and consider applications from a number of gifted and called leaders,” said Kathryn Madson, J.D., Board of Regents member and Chair of the PSC. “After much prayerful consideration and completion of comprehensive interviews and leadership assessment processes, the Committee felt that Dr. Williams was the right candidate for this time in NCU’s history. We are excited about the role he will have in continuing the rich legacy of NCU.”
Pastor and leader
A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Williams has served in local, district, and national leadership roles within the Assemblies of God, including current President of the National Black Fellowship and former Executive Presbyter. His pastoral career spans nearly 30 years, with churches in Columbus and Lima, Ohio, where he and his wife, Charlene Williams, ministered together. Charlene is an adjunct faculty member at NCU and continues to work alongside Darnell in the Preaching Institute for City Transformation while also pursuing a Doctor of Ministry degree at Assemblies of God Theological Seminary
“What initially drew us to North Central was a deep, Spirit-led sense that this was more than just a new opportunity—it felt like a divine appointment,” Darnell Williams said. “Even with the challenges ahead, I also saw great potential. I believe God isn’t finished with NCU. There’s a new chapter waiting to be written.”
Williams’ appointment as president of NCU positions him to be part of a legacy that dates back to 1930. Located in the heart of Minneapolis, North Central University has long been recognized as a hub for Christ-centered, Spirit-empowered education. Over the decades, NCU has prepared thousands of students to serve in ministry, business, education, the arts, and beyond—making a redemptive impact in communities around the world. With deep roots in the urban core, the university continues to be a light and a presence in the city, offering both academic excellence and spiritual formation.
God’s perfect timing
NCU’s Board Chair Shawn Dockter praised the decision: “I am thrilled with the selection of Dr. Darnell Williams as the eighth President of NCU. When Dr. Williams first joined NCU as a faculty member, I was struck by his heart, skill, and passion for Pentecostal education. I knew from the moment I met him he was special in every way. This is a fantastic and historic day for the university we all love and cherish.”
Interim President Doug Graham, D.Min., also expressed support for Williams’ appointment. “I want to express my total delight in the selection of Dr. Darnell Williams as President of North Central University. God orchestrated this appointment in His perfect timing. Under the leadership of President Williams, the legacy mission of North Central University will advance to new horizons as students are empowered and prepared to take their place in the world as salt and light to the glory of God.”
Fresh vision for the future
Williams’ selection signals a continuity of spiritual leadership and a fresh vision for the future of Christian higher education. His heart for the next generation is clear: “We’re not just handing out degrees—we’re shaping destiny,” he said. “This is a place where faith, learning, and mission come together in transformative ways.”
Darnell Williams, Sr., holds a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary, an M.A. in Business Management from Regent University, and a B.A. in Pastoral Ministry from Holmes Bible College. He is the author of several books and has a passion for mentoring students and empowering diverse leaders in urban and multiethnic ministry contexts.
Darnell and Charlene Williams have been married since 1993 and are the proud parents of one son, Adrian, currently attending medical school in New York pursuing a dual M.D./Ph.D. Additional details about Dr. Williams are available on the university’s website. Plans for his inauguration ceremony are underway and will be announced in the coming weeks.
