Hessel joined the president’s cabinet in 2022 as the University Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students. Leading the athletics, public safety, student success, student accessibility and health services, residence life, student life, counseling services, and health clinic teams, Hessel works to create holistic, transformative student experiences for all MBU students.  

Under Hessel’s leadership, the University has implemented new programs and initiatives as part of an inspirational, innovative and unified student development program.  

Hessel, who holds a Bachelor of Science in religious education from MBU and a Master of Divinity degree from Covenant Theological Seminary, re-joined the MBU community after nearly 15 years in full-time Christian ministry. Hessel has served in a variety of pastoral and leadership capacities within local churches, while serving full-time on staff for 10 years at MBU in a variety of roles, including director of admissions and director of residence life.  

Jon and his wife, Lisa (’04), reside in west St. Louis County with their three children, Kaden, Max and Ivy.