Office of the President

President - Andrew K. Benton

Andrew K. Benton has served in higher education for nearly 30 years. He planned for a career as an attorney or probate judge in his hometown, and focused his education toward those interests. The desire to work with young people in their own pursuit of higher education was strong and he, instead, followed a career path that led to his current role as the seventh president of Pepperdine University. He assumed that position on June 16, 2000.

Benton received his bachelor of science in American Studies from Oklahoma Christian University and went on to earn the juris doctor degree from Oklahoma City University School of Law. He was admitted to the Oklahoma State Bar in 1979 and later to practice before Federal Courts. For ten years, Benton served in various administrative roles at his undergraduate alma mater. From 1979 until 1983 he also maintained a private law practice in the State of Oklahoma.

His experience at Pepperdine, beginning in 1984, includes various senior administrative posts. Throughout his career at Pepperdine, Benton has invested himself in external relations, governmental and regulatory matters, securing approvals critical to the University's future, often under adverse circumstances. Prior to becoming president, Benton served as Pepperdine’s executive vice president and chief operational officer for nine years.

President Benton teaches courses within the University on a regular basis and is deeply involved in the lives of students. He is active in many legal, educational, athletic and community organizations including the American Bar Association, the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities, the American Council on Education, the board of directors of The California Chamber of Commerce and the presidents’ council of the West Coast Conference. He is also a member of the Jonathan Club and the California Club.

Andy Benton considers himself most fortunate to have married his wife, Debby, nearly 30 years ago. They have two children, Hailey and Christopher. The family resides on the campus of Pepperdine University in Malibu.