CONWAY, Ark. (May 3, 2024) — Hendrix College has named longtime higher education financial leader Bernadette Hinkle as Executive Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer. Hinkle will join the Hendrix community on June 1.
“Bernadette brings a wealth of experience in higher education finance,” said Hendrix College President Karen Petersen. “She has seen significant changes, challenges, and opportunities in higher education and will make Hendrix College even stronger with
her expertise. I am confident in her ability to help us to enhance our already excellent academic experience for current and future students.”
With more than 25 years of leadership in administration, accounting, budgeting, and business services, Hinkle’s strengths include building effective teams, implementing innovative solutions, delivering high-level customer service, and strategically aligning
resources to support the organization’s mission. Her experience includes administrative, strategic, and technical expertise developed at Henderson State University, Arkansas Tech University, West Chester University (PA), University of Arkansas System
offices, and in the private sector. She served most recently as a financial consultant to higher education institutions.
A certified public accountant and a transformational leader with experience managing complex organizations and improving processes in both finance and operations, Hinkle holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff
and an MBA from the University of Arkansas Little Rock.
“I am thrilled to join Hendrix College at a pivotal time in its development and look forward to working with President Petersen and the leadership team to build on a rich legacy of excellence as we continue to inspire students to lead lives of accomplishment,
integrity, service, and joy,” said Hinkle. “I fully understand the financial challenges facing higher education today, and I also know Hendrix has an abundance of opportunities that few small colleges have.”
Hinkle succeeds Tom Siebenmorgen ’76, who will retire at the end of the academic year after 13 years of service to Hendrix. She joins a new leadership team, along with Vice President of Advancement Dr. Meredith Brunen, who started May 1, and Executive
Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Dr. Teresa Garrett, who starts July 1.
About Hendrix College
Founded in 1876, Hendrix College is featured in Colleges That Change Lives: 40 Schools That Will Change the Way You Think About Colleges and celebrated among the country’s leading liberal arts colleges for academic quality, engaged learning opportunities
and career preparation, vibrant campus life, and value. The Hendrix College Warriors compete in 21 NCAA Division III sports. Hendrix has been affiliated with the United Methodist Church since 1884. Learn more at www.hendrix.edu.
“… Through engagement that links the classroom with the world, and a commitment to diversity, inclusion, justice, and sustainable living, the Hendrix community inspires students to lead lives of accomplishment, integrity, service, and joy.” —Hendrix College
Statement of Purpose