Craig Mahler Named Business Officer of the Year
The Association of Business Administrators of Christian Colleges (ABACC) recognized Welch College Vice President for Financial Affairs Craig Mahler as the 2018 H. G. Faulkner Distinguished Business Officer of the Year, according to President Matt Pinson. ABACC, a professional society of 183 Christian colleges in the United States and Canada, recognizes outstanding individuals in the field of Christian Higher Education business and financial management. Mahler was presented the award February 15 during ABACC’s annual conference in Orlando, Florida.
“It is clear from Craig’s staff’s nomination of him for this award that he goes above and beyond his job description to serve his institution and that his colleagues hold him in great respect,” said Bruce Hoeker, Executive Director of ABACC.
Mahler was named Vice President for Financial Affairs at Welch College in January 2012. He previously served six years as the college’s comptroller (2006-2012). Mahler oversees the Business Office, Financial Aid Office, and Plant Operations.
In addition to his duties as chief financial officer, Mahler has been an essential part of the campus relocation effort, serving on the Transition Planning Committee and Relocation Task Force. Mahler was crucial in executing the campus transition from Nashville to Gallatin, volunteering significant time after hours. The Welch Student Body recognized Mahler as the 2017 recipient of the Bert and Dianne Tippet Award in honor of his diligent work.
Pinson stated, “We could not have faced the challenges of relocation without Craig Mahler’s integrity, work ethic, and expertise. He is wholeheartedly committed to the ministry of Welch College, and we are so proud of him for receiving this singular honor.”
Mahler graduated with honors from Tennessee Technological University, receiving a B.S. in business administration in 2004, and he received his Master of Business Administration from Trevecca Nazarene University in 2016. Mahler spent several years in TTU’s Internal Audit Division while a student at the university and was involved in specialized management training at DeKalb Community Bank, now Wilson Bank & Trust, in Smithville, Tennessee.
Craig and his wife Sabrina have two daughters, Lily and Madeline. He and his family live in Carthage, TN.