Jeff Rider, Kristy Miller take new positions at Williams Baptist University

Two Williams Baptist University employees have transitioned into new roles. Jeff Rider has taken on the duties of director of Athletic Eligibility & Retention, while Kristy Miller is now the director of the Student Success Center and Freshman Advisor.

Rider, a 28-year veteran of WBU, served as Director of Athletics for the past 18 years, but he said he was intrigued by the opportunity for a new position and new challenges.

“This position is designed to help student athletes win where it matters most, which is in the classroom,” Rider said. “Pushing athletes to complete their education has always been a part of my job that I take very seriously. So, when this position became available, I felt the time was right to make a transition. I pursued the job, and I am thankful to have this opportunity.”

Rider will also teach classes in the field of sports management.

Miller, who previously worked in the Williams Teacher Education Program, will now oversee services such as tutoring, career counseling and, ultimately, helping students succeed in completing their WBU education.

“I look forward to working with a broad cross-section of students and helping them traverse the challenges that come with college life,” Miller said. “The university experience can be pretty intimidating. Students are facing a whole new set of challenges, academically, socially and emotionally, and I’m looking forward to helping them sort through those issues. WBU is a very caring place, and I’m delighted to be in a position where we can express that in such a meaningful way.”

“Coach Rider and Mrs. Miller are the ideal choices to fill these two crucial positions,” said WBU President Dr. Stan Norman. “Both of them have done excellent work in their previous roles, and they are committed to helping our students complete an excellent, Christ-centered education. We are blessed to have them in these positions, and so are the students of Williams.”