Faculty

Dr. Nikki Fennern has been a leader in the higher education industry for over 20 years. Currently, Dr. Fennern serves as the Executive Vice President at Judson University in which she oversees adult, online, graduate, and traditional enrollment; financial aid; marketing; and intercollegiate athletics. During her time at the university, she has analyzed and implemented campus initiatives strategically and holistically while collaborating with each area of the university to advance strategic goals and vision.

Christi Gillman, Exercise and Sport Science Department Chair and Associate Professor in Health & Human Performance and Biological Sciences joins Judson’s full-time faculty with fourteen years of adjunct experience from various colleges and universities, including Judson. Christi earned her B.S. degree in Exercise Science & Kinesiology with an emphasis in Cardiac Rehabilitation from Elmhurst College, a M.A. degree from National-Louis University in Education with an emphasis in Biological Sciences, an EMT certification/license from College of DuPage, and has been a certified personal trainer and business owner with various fitness endorsements for over 20 years. With a diverse background in exercise physiology, sports medicine, anatomy physiology, emergency medicine, fitness, and various leadership roles, Christi is thrilled to bring her experience and passion for health and fitness to Judson University. Throughout her career, Christi has been dedicated to fostering an environment where students can thrive, not only academically but also spiritually and physically.

Heather Johnson loves drawing from her experiences as a collegiate student-athlete as she teaches. Heather was inducted into Judson University’s Athletics Hall of Fame in 2016. She was a member of the most accomplished Women’s Basketball Program for Judson (1998-99), which finished in the Elite Eight of the NAIA National Tournament and won the CCAC regular-season championship.