Manchester alumna, Celia Cook-Huffman, began serving as Vice President for Academic Affairs in March 2020. 

Graduating from Manchester with a bachelor’s degree in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution Cook-Huffman went on to earn her master’s in Peace Studies from the University of Notre Dame and an interdisciplinary social science doctorate focused on social conflict theory from Syracuse University.

Dr. Cook-Huffman returned to Manchester after 30 years with Juniata College, a small, liberal arts, Brethren-affiliated institution in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. During her time at Juniata, Cook-Huffman held the W. Clay and Kathryn Burkholder Professorship in Conflict Resolution, taught in the Peace and Conflict Studies Program and served as the associate director for the Baker Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies. Her background combines peace studies with specialized training and education in conflict transformation, nonviolence, gender and mediation. Her research interests include the impact of social identity on conflict, the relationship between gender issues and conflict, and nonviolent social change. She has also served as a consultant for both public and private organizations on topics including: conflict resolution training, dispute resolution systems design, systems analysis, leadership training and assessing gender dynamics in conflict. From 2015-2020, Cook-Huffman served as an assistant provost at Juniata College, providing administrative oversight and leadership in support of student success.

Cook-Huffman is excited to return to her alma mater as the chief academic officer. “To be part of a vibrant educational institution, to partner with our students on their academic and personal journeys is incredibly rewarding work.” She feels honored to be part of Manchester and a community that works to support the core mission of the University: to graduate students of ability and conviction who respect the infinite worth of every individual.

Celia lives in North Manchester, Ind. with her husband Dan, also a Manchester alum. She has two children, Jesse and Grace.