Dr. Bill Hunt, a distinguished professor in the Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership program, represents the heart of Christian leadership and academic excellence. Known for his deep faith, kind spirit, and unwavering commitment to students, Dr. Hunt has left an indelible mark on ACU through years of dedicated service. He is not only an exceptional educator, but also a devoted family man who places his loved ones at the center of his life. His passion for people, combined with a natural ability to lead with humility, has made him a mentor and role model to countless students and colleagues. A proud Wildcat through and through, Dr. Hunt’s connection to ACU runs far deeper than his role as a professor. From cheering on the sidelines to actively participating in student lives, he lives out the ACU mission daily. His classroom has always been a space for growth, reflection and empowerment—where students feel seen, heard, and challenged to lead with integrity.
Now, as Dr. Hunt faces the personal challenge of stage four lung cancer, his courage continues to inspire all who know him. Even in the midst of treatment, his love for teaching endures, reminding the ACU community of the power of resilience, purpose and faith. His story is one of quiet strength and unwavering hope.
A Calling Found Through Faith and Family
Born in Richmond, California and raised in Livermore, Dr. Bill Hunt’s journey to becoming an influential educator began with uncertainty and unexpected turns. Unsure of his path after high school, he spent time in college without a clear direction—until a mission opportunity changed everything. Through the F.A.C.T. (Foreign Action for Christian Teens) program, he served for two years in Saskatchewan, Canada. It was there he met his future wife, setting the stage for a life defined by commitment, compassion and service.
After returning to California and working in the newspaper industry, Dr. Hunt found the work financially rewarding but unfulfilling. Drawn to the meaning and connection he experienced through part-time ministry, he began to imagine a different path—one that would require a leap of faith for his entire family.“I quit my job. I sold my house, and I went to ACU when I was 28 years old and had two children,” Dr. Hunt says. “It was a crazy time but my wife wanted to go back to school as well, so we did.”
While raising two sons and working as a youth minister, he earned his undergraduate degree in Bible, followed by a master’s in family ministry and systems. His journey in ministry and education took him to Portland, Oregon, where he served as a youth minister and later became dean of students at Cascade College. After earning his Ed.D. from Azusa Pacific University, Dr. Hunt began teaching in higher education—eventually returning to his ACU roots, where he now serves as the Senior Associate Program Director for the Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership.
Leading With Hope, Purpose and Humility
For Dr. Hunt, teaching is more than a job—it’s a sacred calling. At ACU, he teaches foundational leadership courses and champions faculty development with a Christ-centered focus. His leadership model prioritizes hospitality, empathy, and epistemic humility—creating an environment where students feel welcomed, valued, and heard. His vision for professional learning communities and mindfulness-based faculty support illustrates his deep care for both learners and educators.
What makes Dr. Hunt’s story especially powerful is his perseverance through personal trials. Diagnosed with stage four lung cancer over four years ago and given a two-year prognosis, he continues to defy expectations with grace and strength. His life philosophy—rooted in faith and gratitude—drives his daily commitment to be present, listen well, and recognize the sacredness of each moment.
Even while undergoing treatment, Dr. Hunt lives fully: he hiked the Camino de Santiago in Spain, regularly backpacks in the Pacific Northwest, and cherishes time with his grandchildren in Arkansas. His love for his wife, now retired after 29 years of teaching, and their shared dream of future adventures together paints a picture of joy, resilience and grounded hope.
“I love what I’m doing,” Dr. Hunt says. “I see myself working at ACU for a few more years—or down the road, who knows? I love what I’m doing.”
Dr. Hunt’s story reminds the ACU community that leadership is not just about achievement,it’s about heart, humility, and showing up for others, no matter the circumstances. He teaches not just from textbooks, but from a life lived with intentionality and love.
“Each day is a gift,” Dr. Hunt said. “You just look at people differently, love your wife better, enjoy your kids, and then just love the blue sky each day.”
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