�鶹��ý

Nancy Lane, Content Strategist

�鶹��ý

[email protected]

For Immediate Release

WAXAHACHIE, Texas — January 29, 2026 — �鶹��ý is pleased to announce two new vice president appointments. Shelly Zaldivar, Ph.D., has been named Vice President for Marketing, and Cynthia Bell, M.Ed., has been named Vice President for Enrollment. Both will serve on the �鶹��ý Cabinet.

These appointments also represent a meaningful moment in �鶹��ý’s history. For the first time since the University’s founding, three women are serving at the Vice President level. 

“These appointments are an important step forward for �鶹��ý as we continue serving students with excellence and preparing for the season ahead,” said �鶹��ý President Dr. Kermit Bridges. “Dr. Zaldivar and Mrs. Bell bring strong leadership, a genuine care for students, and a deep commitment to Nelson’s mission.”

As Vice President for Marketing and Public Relations, Dr. Zaldivar will lead �鶹��ý’s marketing strategy, brand development, and communications efforts to strengthen awareness and support enrollment goals. Her work will focus on clear, consistent messaging across platforms, digital outreach, and strategic storytelling that reflects the University’s academic programs and outcomes.

“�鶹��ý has an incredible story to tell,” said Zaldivar. “I’m honored to step into this role and help strengthen the University’s voice while building deeper connections with prospective and current students, families, alumni, and community partners.”

As Vice President for Enrollment, Bell will oversee admissions strategy, recruitment operations, and team development as Nelson continues building strong enrollment momentum across undergraduate, graduate, and online programs. Her leadership will prioritize student support, a strong prospective student experience, and clear pathways from first inquiry through enrollment.

“It’s a privilege to serve �鶹��ý and walk alongside students as they make the major decision of where to attend college to prepare for God’s call on their life,” said Bell. “I’m excited to help strengthen enrollment efforts while ensuring prospective students and families feel supported, confident, and like a part of the Nelson family before they even arrive on campus.”

These leadership appointments reflect �鶹��ý’s continued commitment to serving today’s learners through strategic leadership, operational excellence, and mission-driven innovation.

For more information about �鶹��ý, visit nelson.edu.

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�鶹��ý �鶹��ý. �鶹��ý is a private Christian university located just 30 minutes south of the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas. Founded in 1927, the university offers more than 70 undergraduate and graduate degrees, both on campus and online. Committed to integrating faith and learning, Nelson prepares students to fulfill their God-given callings in a Spirit-empowered community. For more information, visit or call 1-888-937-7248.