Dr. Hoekstra obtained an undergraduate degree in History & Philosophy from Trinity Christian College, a Masters of Business Administration from the Rotterdam School of Management (NL), and a Ph.D. in Education from Iowa State University.
Dr. Hoekstra taught marketing & management at Dordt University from 1997 - 2000 after several managerial roles in wholesale distribution and retail management. From 2000 - 2008, he served on the leadership team of The Interstates Companies in industrial construction and engineering. He returned to Dordt University in 2008 as the college Provost and has served as President since 2012.
Dr. Hoekstra is passionate about bringing joy and meaning to work. In his work life, he strives to create an environment where those who are being led are being served. Doing so, he believes, not only creates the conditions where people can thrive in fulfilling their calling, but also makes a stronger institution.
Dr. Hoekstra is married to Dr. Barb Hoekstra, an education professor at Dordt University with a bachelors degree from Trinity, a masters from Western Michigan University, and an Ed.D. from the University of South Dakota. Their family includes sons--Arie, Max, Karl, and daughter--Zoe.