Introducing Dr. Shonna Crawford – NU’s Vice President of Advancement
We are pleased to welcome Dr. Shonna Crawford—an accomplished leader with a deep commitment to education, service, and meaningful impact—as Northwest University’s new Vice President of Advancement.
Dr. Crawford’s career began in the classroom as an elementary teacher, reading specialist, and literacy coach. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from Evangel University, followed by a Ph.D. in Learning, Teaching, and Curriculum from the University of Missouri.
Dr. Crawford spent more than a decade at Evangel University, rising from assistant professor to tenured professor and chair of the Education Department. In that role, she led undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, guided accreditation efforts, and mentored hundreds of students and future educators.
In 2023, Dr. Crawford transitioned to nonprofit leadership with Convoy of Hope, where she served as Vice President of Network Partner Engagement. She led efforts to connect churches to a global mission—empowering women, feeding children, and developing communities in more than 40 countries. Her leadership helped drive strategic partnerships, organizational growth, and expanded impact.
Dr. Crawford’s contributions have been widely recognized, including being named to the Springfield Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 (2017) and 20 Most Influential Women (2021).
Known for her relational leadership and faith-centered perspective, Dr. Crawford brings a passion for connecting people to purpose. In her new role, she will lead NU’s advancement team, strengthen relationships with donors and partners, and help secure the philanthropic support needed to advance Northwest’s mission and future.
President Jeremy Johnson said, “I have known Dr. Crawford for several years, and I have seen the impact she has on both individuals and organizations. She is a person of character and leads with excellence. I am excited to invite her to this team as we not only dream for a bright future at Northwest, but we raise the necessary support to make this future happen!”
Outside of her professional work, she enjoys traveling and serving alongside her family—her husband of 25 years, Michael, and their children, Gavin and Aubree. They are all thrilled about Gavin's upcoming marriage to Kate Logerquist this fall. We are honored to welcome Dr. Crawford and look forward to the vision and leadership she brings to the NU community.