Christian Education Leader Returns to Roots

HOLLAND, MI - Holland Christian Schools has announced the hiring of Jeff Haverdink as its next Head of Schools, effective July 1, 2026. The appointment marks a significant return for the 1993 graduate, who brings more than 25 years of executive leadership experience spanning higher education, school finance, banking and philanthropy.

Haverdink steps into the role from Calvin University, where he served as Executive Director of Alumni and Family Engagement. He replaces Eric Forseth, who stepped down last year for health reasons, and takes over from Jeff Pett, who served as interim head of schools during the 2025-26 academic year.

Multi-Generational Christian Education Family

A 1993 graduate of Holland Christian High School, Haverdink comes from a deeply rooted multi-generational Christian education family. His parents, brother, uncles, aunts and cousins all attended Holland Christian, making his return to the district particularly meaningful.

His late father, David Haverdink, served the Hamilton Fire Department for more than 50 years, including 40 years as fire chief, according to officials. The Hamilton Fire Department lost Haverdink in a vehicle mishap during the Christmas holiday season.

"We're passionate about Christian education," Haverdink said. "While it requires real investment from families and our community, the value and impact it has on the lives of students is priceless."

Haverdink and his wife, Erin, are both graduates of Christian schools and attended Christian colleges. They have committed to raising their two daughters in Christian education, and hearing and seeing the blessing of Christian education in their own children has become one of the biggest drivers of Haverdink's work.

Extensive Higher Education Experience

At Calvin University, Haverdink led engagement and external relations efforts for 67,000 global alumni and families. He oversaw the Alumni Association Board of Directors and served as an advisor to the university president. His tenure at Calvin spanned 14 years total.

Previously, as associate director of gift planning at Calvin, Haverdink grew and retained an estimated $150 million portfolio of future planned gifts and led a bequest campaign that doubled expected donor response rates, according to officials.

This fundraising background and familiarity with the West Michigan community positions him to support the philanthropic efforts that make Christian education accessible to more families.

Christian School Leadership at Dutton

Haverdink also brings direct experience managing tuition assistance programs and understands firsthand the financial realities families face when choosing Christian education. His leadership at Dutton Christian School in Grand Rapids spans more than 12 years.

After six years on the board, he served as the school's director of finance, helping navigate enrollment growth, building projects and strategic planning, according to officials. He also guided the school through rapid enrollment growth, COVID challenges, building projects and strategic planning during his tenure there.

Focus on Organizational Strategy and Financial Stewardship

As Head of Schools, Jeff will focus on long-term organizational strategy, financial stewardship, community engagement and building a culture where teachers can thrive. His fundraising background and familiarity with the West Michigan community position him to support the philanthropic efforts that make Christian education accessible to more families.

The heart and soul of Christian education is our teachers and staff. The impact they have in the lives of our children is truly a forever gift, Haverdink emphasized.

Holland Christian in a Season of Growth

Holland Christian is currently in a season of growth. Enrollment has increased 20 percent over the past five years, the school carries minimal debt, and the $22.5 million Faithfully Forward capital campaign has already raised $15 million.

Jeff steps into HC with real momentum. His passion for Christian education and the people who make it possible is infectious, according to school officials.

He enters this role with confidence that this is where God is calling him and his family, and with full reliance on God's wisdom as he works alongside the community to build upon Holland Christian's mission for the next 125 years and beyond.

About Holland Christian Schools

Holland Christian Schools operates a six-campus system serving approximately 1,900 students across elementary, middle and high school levels. The district is committed to providing Christ-centered education that equips students with academic excellence, character development and spiritual growth.

The school system is located at 956 Ottawa Ave. in Holland, Michigan, and can be reached at 616-820-2805.