Graceland University and Community of Christ Announce Retirement of Campus Minister Mike Hoffman; Doug Roberts Named Successor

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Administration and Staff, Press Release

April 10, 2026

Lamoni, IA – Graceland University and the Community of Christ announce the retirement of Campus Minister Mike Hoffman, and the appointment of Doug Roberts as the university’s next Campus Minister, effective June 2026.

Hoffman, who joined the Graceland community in 2015, has made a lasting impact through his leadership, mentorship, and commitment to students. He led the transition of the Community of Christ Leadership Program (CCLP) into InSpire, a for-credit ministry practicum, and more recently expanded Campus Ministries to include the Student Help Desk—emphasizing service as a central part of ministry. He also taught in Critical Thinking and Transformational Leadership, advised first-year students, and served as Acacia yearbook adviser for 10 years.

“Serving at Graceland has been the highlight of my ministry,” Hoffman said. “I will miss the relationships and the energy of student life.”

“Mike has been a tremendous colleague and friend, and it has truly been a joy to work alongside him,” said John Godfrey, Vice President of Student Life and Dean of Students. “His selfless devotion to students has been inspiring, and we wish him much joy in retirement. We’re also excited to welcome Doug into this role. He has a natural connection with students and is well positioned to continue Graceland’s tradition of care, community, and belonging.”

Roberts, a 2002 Graceland graduate, brings a deep connection to the university. As a student, he served as Closson House President and earned Academic All-American honors in basketball. He later earned a master’s degree in Sport Management from the University of San Francisco and was award a Master of Arts in Peace and Social Transformation degree through the Graceland Seminary in December 2025.

He has worked with the Positive Coaching Alliance, served as a Recreation Director, and remained engaged with Graceland through the Alumni Board and leadership of Spectacular. Currently, Roberts works as an Admissions Advisor in the Lamoni Admissions office.

“The Community of Christ and Graceland have had a transformative impact on my life journey,” Roberts said. “This role is an opportunity to give back to communities that have profoundly shaped who I am.”

Roberts and his wife, Ginelle ’01, live in Lamoni with their two children.

Graceland University thanks Hoffman for his years of service and looks forward to the continued impact of Campus Ministries under Roberts’ leadership.

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