President of Lincoln Memorial University, Longest Tenured Staff Member

Selecting Institution: Lincoln Memorial University 

It is a great honor when an institution chooses one of its own as its president. Dr. Clayton Hess graduated from Lincoln Memorial University in 1981 and has since held several positions, obtained two additional LMU degrees and devoted his life to the institution he now serves as president.

Dr. Hess lives the LMU mission statement everyday by striving to give students a foundation for a more productive life by upholding the principles of Abraham Lincoln's life: a dedication to individual liberty, responsibility, and improvement; a respect for citizenship; recognition of the intrinsic value of high moral and ethical standards; and a belief in a personal God.

Hess has one of the longest continuous tenures at LMU. Because of his longevity, his knowledge of alumni and friends spans many decades, and these individuals place great trust in his leadership.