Ron Bryan Appointed William Penn University’s Liaison for Quaker and Church Relations

Ron Bryan has been appointed as William Penn University’s liaison for Quaker and Church Relations, tasked with strengthening ties between the university and Quaker meetings, churches, faith leaders, and faith-based organizations. This role will involve collaboration with the Advancement and Alumni Office and campus partners to connect these communities with the university’s mission, students, alumni, and opportunities for engagement and support.

Bryan will also help share William Penn’s Quaker heritage and Christian identity while upholding the university’s commitment to welcoming individuals of all faiths and backgrounds. “Having served William Penn as a trustee, instructor, and member of the Quaker community, I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute in this new role,” Bryan said. “I look forward to building relationships that connect people with William Penn’s students and mission, and to supporting the next generation through education, encouragement, and generosity.”

Ken Oliver, executive vice president for advancement, praised Bryan’s deep understanding of the university and his extensive relationships within the Friends community. “We’re excited to welcome him to the advancement staff. His leadership will help strengthen connections with churches and faith communities, deepen alumni and student engagement, and build support for the university’s work and future.”

Bryan earned a bachelor’s degree from Vennard College in 1980 and a master’s degree in transformational leadership from Barclay College in 2014. He served as a pastor and superintendent within Iowa Yearly Meeting for 36 years and also taught religion courses at William Penn University.

Raised in a Quaker family on a farm near Oskaloosa, Bryan has longstanding ties to the university. He served on William Penn’s Board of Trustees for nearly 20 years and later joined its faculty. He also served on the boards of Friends United Meeting and Friends World Committee for Consultation, traveling extensively in Africa, the Caribbean, and North America.

William Penn University, located in Oskaloosa, Iowa, welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds and draws on its Quaker heritage and Christian identity in its educational mission. The appointment of Bryan reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to fostering relationships within the broader faith community and advancing its mission through education and service.

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