May 2, 2013 (Memphis) - Dr. Paul Criss is the new Dean of Faculty for the Belhaven Memphis and DeSoto Campuses.
Dr. Criss holds a Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Music from Central Bible College, a Master of Music degree from Arkansas State University, a Master of Divinity degree from Memphis Theological Seminary, and the Doctor of Philosophy degree from The University of Memphis. Dr. Criss comes to Belhaven with 20 years of instructional experience and 12 years of higher education experience. He has held positions as adjunct instructor for Bethel University, Assistant Professor for Crichton College, Director of Academic Development and Professor for Visible Music College, and President of Praxis Bible College. He has been active in working with both traditional and adult learners.
He is an ordained minister and the bi-vocational pastor of New Salem Church. Additionally, Dr. Criss serves the community as Director of the North East Shelby County Cluster Choir, Area 1 Ministries board member, and charter organization executive for Cub Scout Pack 453, Chickasaw Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Dr. Criss resides in Lakeland, Tennessee with his wife, Susanne (Susie), and they are expecting their first child, little Sophie, in June.
Belhaven University stands among select Christian colleges and universities and has been repeatedly named one of “America’s 100 Best College Buys." The University offers 30 academic majors across a full spectrum of disciplines as well as a variety of graduate programs. In addition, Belhaven has achieved the distinction of being among only 30 universities nationally accredited in each of the major arts – music, theatre, visual art and dance. All programs are taught from a Christian worldview perspective and are guided by the mission to prepare students academically and spiritually to serve Christ Jesus in their careers, in human relationships, and in the world of ideas.
Belhaven University serves over 3,700 students offering undergraduate and graduate degrees on its residential campus, an online degree program, and graduate and adult degree programs in Jackson, Memphis, Orlando, Houston, Chattanooga, and Atlanta.