Bristol, Tenn. — King University was honored to host Wendell Dunn, Assistant Director of Leadership and Character in Athletics at Wake Forest University, for a two-day series of leadership engagements with faculty and athletics staff on August 5–6, 2026. Dunn met first with King faculty on Wednesday, followed by a dedicated session with King Athletics on Thursday.
At Wake Forest University, Dunn serves in the Program for Leadership and Character, where he provides leadership experiences to athletic teams through workshops, retreats, discussion groups, and project-based development. A former Wake Forest student-athlete, he earned his B.A. in Communications with a minor in Schools, Education, and Society, as well as a Master of Educational Studies.
Before joining the Program for Leadership and Character, Dunn was the Wake Forest Football Program's first Director of Player Development. In this role, he created meaningful student-athlete experiences and supported athletes during their transition to and from college. He also led the team's career readiness programming, preparing student-athletes for professional opportunities after graduation through the university's 7 strategies.
Working alongside the Director of Football Alumni Relations, Dunn coordinated the Player Career Development mentorship program, connecting athletes with networking opportunities that matched their career interests and complied with NCAA guidelines. He also oversaw several of the football program's major community service initiatives, including Hit the Bricks, Pump Up for Piccolo, and Santa's Helper.
Dunn's passion for mentoring student-athletes and supporting their personal and professional success through leadership and character development continues to guide his work at Wake Forest and beyond. King University is grateful for Dunn's time, expertise, and commitment to developing leaders in higher education and athletics. His sessions provided valuable insights and practical strategies that will support King's ongoing efforts to cultivate character, leadership, and holistic development across campus.
