Kuttenkuler joins Henderson State as vice chancellor for student life

Henderson State University has named Dr. Scott Kuttenkuler as its new vice chancellor for student life, bringing to campus a seasoned higher education leader with extensive experience in student affairs, enrollment growth, workforce development, organizational leadership, and institutional advancement.

Kuttenkuler joins Henderson State with a resume that includes leadership roles at community colleges and universities, as well as in statewide workforce initiatives. Recognized throughout his career for building high-performing teams, he excels in advancing student success initiatives, strengthening campus culture, and developing innovative partnerships that connect students to meaningful opportunities.

As vice chancellor for student life, Kuttenkuler will provide leadership for key areas that support the student experience, including student engagement, housing, counseling and health services, recreation, student conduct, disability services, Greek life, and other programs designed to promote student success and well-being.

"Henderson State University has made tremendous progress over the past several years, and we are now entering an exciting new chapter focused on elevating every aspect of the student experience," Dr. Trey Berry, Chancellor of Henderson State University, said. "Student life is central to that effort. We were looking for a leader who could build relationships, inspire teams, remove barriers to student success, and help create a campus environment where students feel connected, supported, and empowered to thrive. Dr. Scott Kuttenkuler brings exactly that combination of experience, energy, and vision. I am confident he will play a significant role in helping Henderson continue its upward trajectory."

Kuttenkuler earned a doctorate in Higher Education Administration from Arkansas State University, where his research focused on organizational change and the experiences of non-academic staff during periods of institutional transformation. He also holds a Master of Science in Communication and a Bachelor of Science in Corporate Communications, both from the University of Central Missouri. Over the course of more than two decades in higher education, he has served in leadership roles at the University of Arkansas at Monticello, Southeast Arkansas College, and Arkansas State University-Three Rivers' Saline County Career Technical Campus, as well as in statewide workforce and organizational leadership initiatives. Throughout his career, Kuttenkuler has helped lead initiatives that increased student enrollment, expanded workforce training opportunities, secured grant funding, strengthened community partnerships, and improved student success outcomes.

"I am honored to join Henderson State University and become part of the Reddie family," Kuttenkuler said. "Throughout my career, I have been drawn to institutions that are building momentum and creating new possibilities for students. Henderson is doing exactly that. From my first conversations with Chancellor Berry and members of the Henderson community, it was clear that this is an institution defined by resilience, momentum, and an unwavering commitment to students. The future is incredibly bright."

"Higher education changes lives, and student life is often where students discover their sense of belonging, develop confidence, and find the support they need to persist through challenges," Kuttenkuler said. "Every student deserves to feel seen, valued, connected, and supported during their time at Henderson. My commitment is simple: listen first, build strong relationships, support great people doing great work, and help create an environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed. I am excited to work alongside Chancellor Berry, our faculty and staff, alumni, and the broader community as we continue strengthening the Henderson experience."

Kuttenkuler and his wife, Amanda, are excited to join the Henderson and Arkadelphia communities. Together with their three sons and growing family, they look forward to building relationships across campus and becoming active members of the Reddie family.