President's Cabinet

David Earle

A native of Sterling, Earle graduated from Sterling College in 1991 with a bachelor of arts in Behavioral Science and attended St. Mary’s University in Winona, Minn., for a master’s in Philanthropy and Development. Earle’s son Jonathan ’11 and daughter Ashley (Earle) Brandes ’09, are both Sterling graduates. His son-in-law, Paul Brandes ’11, was named Sterling’s chaplain in the summer of 2019. David and his wife, Sherry, enjoy living in Sterling.

Scott Downing

Scott Downing, a Sterling College alumnus from the class of 1979, has taken on the role of Vice President for Strategy and Engagement. In this position, he will assist the college in implementing an updated Strategic Plan and work with the Marketing and Advancement teams to expand the network of alums and friends who support Sterling's mission. He will also contribute to long-range planning and strategic projects on campus, collaborating closely with Dr. Rich.

Jason Briar

Jason Briar ’99 serves as the vice president for Student Life. In this role, he directs all Student Life programming and coordination of personal services and programs related to the College’s student development efforts.  He will set the strategic direction for Student Life programs and will make recommendations on related policies.
 
Prior to coming to Sterling College, Jason has been in public education both as a teacher and administrator for the past 18 years, most recently served as Fairfield (Langdon, Ks) Middle & High School Principal.

Mitzi Suhler

Mitzi attended Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas where she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.  Mitzi is married, lives in Lyons and has 3 children. She enjoys reading, doing crafts and being with her family.

Office

Kelsey Hall

Contact Information

Phone/Extension: 620-278-4226

 

Dr. Scott Rich

Scott Rich has been Sterling College's president since 2013. Rich joined the College in 2008, serving as chief financial officer where he provided leadership and oversaw finance, human resources, physical plant among other obligations, before being inaugurated as Sterling's 12th president.

Before the College, Rich has served in a variety of leadership and management roles in both the for-profit and non-profit world. He brings with him a rich understanding of budget and production management and financial reporting. 

Justin Morris

Justin Morris was promoted to Vice President for Athletics at Sterling College in July 2025, bringing over two decades of leadership and service to the institution. Previously, Morris served as Associate Vice President for Athletics and Facility Management, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the athletic department, campus facilities, and the physical plant since 2019. His career includes seven years as Assistant Athletic Director and an impactful 20-year tenure as the Head Women's Soccer Coach.

Michelle Hall

After her mom went to Sterling College before her, Michelle could only picture herself attending Sterling as well. Fourteen years later, she is working for Sterling College and has been here for 25 years and loving every day! Michelle works as the Chief Financial Officer in the Business office. She loves the energy and the quality of students that are enrolled at Sterling College. She finds the Christian, caring, helpful,and encouraging work place to be just the ideal place to make you want to come to work every day. Michelle doesn’t currently have any hobbies—she claims to just work all of the time! She is married and has 2 children, both graduates of Sterling, and a dog, Holly.