FRANKLIN, Tennessee — Williamson University is thrilled to launch its new Master of Public Administration (MPA) program and the nation’s first Certificate in Rural Economic Development (CRED), a groundbreaking initiative designed to prepare current and aspiring leaders to serve communities with integrity, innovation, and impact. As one of the few Christian higher education institutions in the United States offering a Master of Public Administration degree, Williamson University is uniquely positioned to equip a new generation of public servants, nonprofit leaders, community leaders, and economic development professionals for meaningful leadership in an increasingly complex world.
The new programs represent a significant milestone in Williamson University’s vision for the future of Christ-centered higher education. Grounded in a biblical understanding of stewardship, service, and human flourishing, the MPA and CRED programs will prepare students to address critical public challenges while advancing the common good in communities across Tennessee, the southeastern U.S., and rural America. The university will partner with state and local governments, economic and community development organizations, chambers of commerce, tourism offices, workforce boards, and state, regional, and national associations to provide students with unparalleled networking, applied learning, and leadership development opportunities.
Dr. Roger J. Huston, President of Williamson University and director of the new programs, said,
“At Williamson University, we believe higher education should do more than prepare people for a career; it should inspire purpose. The Master of Public Administration and Certificate in Rural Economic Development reflect our commitment to developing leaders who understand that public service is ultimately about loving your neighbor, strengthening communities, and advancing human flourishing. We are launching a program that integrates professional excellence with biblical truth, training graduates who are called to lead with wisdom, humility, and courage.”
Launching the Certificate in Rural Economic Development marks a historic achievement. While countless communities across America face workforce shortages, population challenges, infrastructure needs, entrepreneurship gaps, and economic transitions, few educational programs focus specifically on rural prosperity. As part of Williamson University’s expansion of professional studies and executive education offerings, the institution’s CRED credential will provide practical, research-based strategies for rural community transformation and economic growth, making it the first professional certificate of its kind offered through a Christian university and designed specifically for rural community leaders and economic development practitioners.
Dr. Huston explained,
“Throughout my career, I have witnessed the transformative power of effective public leadership. Communities rise or fall based largely on the quality of their leaders and institutions. This program is intentionally designed to develop ethical, competent, servant-hearted leaders who can strengthen governments, nonprofits, economic development organizations, and community institutions. We are not simply educating administrators; we are developing stewards of the public trust.”
The new programs also reflect Williamson University’s broader commitment to innovation in Christian higher education. By integrating faith, leadership, policy, economic development, and community engagement, the university is creating a distinctive educational model that responds to emerging workforce needs while remaining firmly anchored in biblical principles. Students will graduate prepared not only to advance professionally but also to serve responsibly as citizens, neighbors, and leaders dedicated to the flourishing of the communities they are called to serve.
Dr. Huston concluded,
“America needs principled leaders more than ever. Whether serving in city hall, a nonprofit organization, a chamber of commerce, an economic development agency, a public authority, or a state government office, our graduates will understand that leadership is fundamentally an act of service. Through these programs, Williamson University will help develop principled and collaborative leaders capable of advancing the public good while faithfully living out their Christian convictions in every sphere of influence.”
About Williamson University
Williamson University is a Christ-centered institution of higher education in Franklin, Tennessee, dedicated to developing purpose-driven leaders through affordable, accessible, transformational education. The university equips students to integrate faith, work, and service while making a meaningful impact in their professions and communities.
