Dr. Kimberly Battle-Walters Denu

Dr. Kim Denu joined Westmont in August 2022 as provost and dean of faculty with over 25 years of experience in executive leadership in Christian higher education. Dr. Denu, a gifted leader, global scholar and a recognized educator is deeply committed to her Christian faith and to the liberal arts, and brings a high level of integrity and a lengthy, proven track record of leading strong teams as an accomplished administrator and collaborator with both institutions and national organizations. Previously, Kim worked as vice president for educational programs for the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities in Washington, D.C. She spent much of her career at Azusa Pacific University as vice president and chief diversity officer. A two-time Fulbright alumna, she has conducted research projects in South Africa and Ethiopia. She has published in the areas of African-American issues, women and family matters, leadership, welfare reform and international relations. She speaks on these topics at various national and international forums and conferences. In addition to serving on local and national committees and boards, Kim has taught undergraduate and graduate students on five continents. As a professor and a scholar, she seeks to model a life of service outside the academy. Kim earned a Doctor of Philosophy in sociology at the University of Florida, a Master of Social Work from Temple University and a Bachelor of Arts in sociology at Vanguard University. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she joyfully returned to California with Yohannes, her husband of 16 years, and their three children.