Beginning June 1, Karen Wrobbel stepped into her new role as Dean of Trinity College and Trinity Graduate School. With degrees from Biola University (BA), Wheaton College (MA), the University of Minnesota (EdD), Wrobbel has contributed to Trinity in many ways since she joined the faculty in 2003.
“I have always been impressed by Dr. Wrobbel’s blend of firmness, gentleness, and honesty," said President Nicholas Perrin. "Though these are challenging times for small liberal arts colleges across the board, the leadership gifts she brings will be a key component in our institutional effort to take the college and graduate school into a sustainable, mission-targeted future.”
"As I have served at Trinity for 17 years, I have seen how committed the faculty and staff are to students and to the mission of the University," Wrobbel said. "Trinity College offers a personalized education where students are more than a number and learning includes a strong experiential component. The Graduate School has also focused on preparing students to fulfill God's calling in their life, and I look forward to realizing the full potential of TGS and its professional programs that prepare Christians to make a difference in the marketplace. Leading this team is an honor and privilege."
Wrobbel serves at Trinity both as a teaching faculty member and as a recognized leader through her responsibilities as director of the Division of Education, associate dean, and chair of faculty councils, committees and task forces. Before joining Trinity’s faculty, She taught missionary kids (MKs) and other international students at Christian schools in Spain and Venezuela where she spoke Spanish fluently. Wrobbel continues to be actively involved internationally with Christian education through conference speaking, accreditation work, and as a volunteer with two educationally focused international groups. Her expertise and research interests include the education of MKs and other global nomads, languages and education, and intercultural communication.
"Dr. Wrobbel brings to this position significant expertise and experience in educational policy and administration," said Provost H. Wayne Johnson. "Through her 17 years of service at Trinity she has demonstrated effective servant-leadership. Her experience as a cross-cultural educator in Spain and South America have made her well suited to move the college and graduate school forward in our mission to equip diverse men and women to participate in God's redemptive work in the world."
