Jul. 22, 2009 Silver Spring, Maryland, United States

Julie Z. Lee/ANN staff

Current Andrews University provost Heather J. Knight accepted the presidency of Pacific Union College last week, becoming the first woman to hold the position.

Knight begins her new administrative duties at the Seventh-day Adventist-run college mid September, in time for the new academic year, school administrators said.

"It is a tremendous privilege and blessing to be invited to serve as the next president of Pacific Union College," Knight said. "Pacific Union College has a very distinguished history, and I am honored to have this opportunity to carry on the proud PUC tradition of ensuring academic excellence and spiritual authenticity."

Knight's previous experience includes 18 years at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California, where she worked as a professor of English, assistant provost, and finally associate provost. Knight is currently serving as provost at Adventist-run Andrews University in Michigan.

Knight's educational background includes a Ph.D. from Stanford University, a master's degree from Loma Linda University, and a bachelor's degree from Oakwood University. She also completed postdoctoral studies at Harvard University in management and leadership in education.

Knight replaces former PUC president Richard C. Osborn, who resigned in June. Osborn is currently associate director for the Senior College Commission of Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

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