Greg Lorenz, former associate dean of academic affairs at Johnson & Wales University in Denver, Colo., will soon join the Wartburg College community as the new Wartburg West academic and program director.

Lorenz, who also was chair of the College of Arts & Sciences at Johnson & Wales, is serving in a transition capacity until he steps into his new role full time on June 1. He is replacing the Rev. Bonita Bock, who is retiring later this year after 27 years with the program.

“I am thrilled to join the Wartburg community and continue the spirit of the Wartburg West program,” Lorenz said. “Learning through experience is a critical part of a Wartburg education, and I am fortunate to be able to design transformational experiences for our students in Denver.”

Lorenz joined the Johnson & Wales faculty in 2000 and over the years served the college as director of the Community Leadership Institute, the Career Development Office and Alumni Relation Office and dean of experiential education. He also was a member of the board of directors for the National Society for Experiential Education and served as vice president of the board in 2014.

He earned a Bachelor of Science in exercise and sport science and a Doctor of Philosophy in education and human resource studies as well as a postsecondary teaching certificate from Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Lorenz also earned a Master of Arts in kinesiology from the University of Northern Colorado, Greeley. He is seeking a MicroMasters Certificate in digital leadership from Boston University via edX.

Lorenz has served on the Denver Chamber of Commerce Health and Wellness Committee and the Stapleton Workforce & Business Opportunity Committee. He also is a volunteer coach for youth lacrosse and soccer clubs and volunteers with the William Roberts K-8 STEAM Lab Committee, where he led the team’s efforts to secure a $150,000 grant for a campus smart lab.