Dennis N. Carlson has been named vice president for university advancement at Walla Walla University and will lead all fundraising and alumni relations programs.

"Carlson brings excellent, proven leadership skills and thorough knowledge of the Northwest," says John McVay, WWU president. "His focused attention to advancement priorities will prove strategic for the university."

"I am excited to be part of an extraordinary group of educators, administrators and staff. It is my great desire to make a contribution to the success of Walla Walla University in my new role," says Carlson.

Carlson came to WWU after serving for six years as the president of the Mid-America Union Conference. Prior to this position, Carlson was assistant to the president for administration at the North American Division.

Carlson lived in the Pacific Northwest for 10 years, serving in both the Washington and Upper Columbia conferences as executive secretary.

He has experience in evangelism, radio ministry and church planting. Carlson served as pastor of churches ranging in membership from nearly 57 to more than 500.

A native of Nebraska, Carlson received his bachelor's degree in theology from Columbia Union College in Maryland, his master of divinity degree at Andrews University in Michigan, and his doctor of ministry at Northwest Theological Union in Washington.