Lee McFarland Named Vice President for Advancement

Nelson University – American Indian College is pleased to announce the appointment of Lee McFarland as Vice President for Advancement, effective June 15, 2026.

Lee brings a unique blend of executive leadership, ministry experience, educational innovation, fundraising expertise, and organizational development to this important role. Throughout his career, he has served in senior leadership positions in business, education, nonprofit organizations, and the local church, helping organizations grow in both impact and sustainability. With a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from University of Colorado in Boulder, CO, Lee went on to be Division Quality Manager for Honeywell Air Transport Systems Division (ATSD) in Phoenix, AZ, and also Director for World-Wide Operations at Microsoft Corporation in Redmond, WA.

Answering God’s call into pastoral ministry, Lee founded Radiant Church in 1997 in Surprise, Arizona, which grew to become one of the largest and fastest-growing churches in the nation (Outreach Magazine 2011). He also founded Paragon Management, Inc., dba Paradise Honors Schools, a highly successful charter school organization serving thousands of students and families to this day. Most recently, he has been helping nonprofits and educational institutions secure funding through strategic advancement and grant development initiatives.

What makes this appointment especially meaningful is the connection between Lee’s family and American Indian College.

Lee’s wife, Sandy McFarland, is the daughter of Jack and JoeAnn Caudle, longtime Home Missionaries who faithfully served at American Indian Bible College in the 1990s. Their investment in Native American students and ministry leaders left a lasting legacy on the institution and the communities it serves.  Jack went to be with the Lord in 2009.

Now, decades later, that legacy comes full circle as Lee joins the leadership team to help advance the mission and future of American Indian College.

“Lee brings a remarkable combination of vision, leadership, relationship-building, and ministry experience,” said Dr. Jonathan Gannon, President of American Indian College. “We are excited about the future and grateful to welcome him to our team.”

As Vice President for Advancement, Lee will lead efforts to strengthen donor relationships, expand philanthropic support, build strategic partnerships, and help secure resources that will advance the mission of preparing students for leadership, service, and ministry.

Please join us in welcoming Pastor Lee McFarland to the Nelson University – American Indian College family.

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