Dr. Peterson emphasizes connection and encouragement on his first day as Bluefield University President

BLUEFIELD, VA (WVNS) — The tenth President of Bluefield University, Dr. Steven Peterson, was welcomed to campus as his tenure began on Monday, August 19, 2024.

In celebration of Dr. Peterson’s new start as President and to build connections with members of faculty and staff, a breakfast for the employees took place in Shott Hall’s conference rooms A and B, with catering from Pioneer College Caterers.

During the event, Dr. Peterson gave words of encouragement to those in attendance as the school year begins, stressing the importance of integrating fresh ideas and taking decisive action in their work.

On August 13, 2024, Dr. Peterson took part in a panel with Bluefield University’s then-Interim President, Dr. Michael Salmeier, where Dr. Peterson discussed current institutional affairs and recounted its mission and vision. He also spoke on his conversion to Christianity and the path that led him forward.

After he transferred to and graduated from a Christian school, Dr. Peterson enrolled at Word of Life Bible Institute located in New York, and later attended Liberty University. While there, he married, earned a Bachelor of Science in Religion, and became employed at the university, holding various positions. He would go on to complete three more degree programs: Master of Arts in Religion, Master of Business Administration, and Doctor of Education.

In pursuing these degrees, he managed to experience Liberty University’s growth, transforming into a bustling school with more than 100,000 students enrolled. He then began a position at Houston Christian University, where he served as Vice President for Online and Digital Learning and assisted in the launch of the school’s online division. In 2023, the division would serve more than 1,800 students.

For more information regarding Dr. Peterson and Bluefield University, visit their website .

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