Dr. Russell Nichols was inaugurated as President of Hanover College in 1987 and resides on campus with his wife, Patricia. He came to Hanover from Hillsdale College in Michigan, where he served as Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs. A native of Indiana, Dr. Nichols earned a Ph.D. from Purdue University after completing his undergraduate work at Wabash College in Crawfordsville.

During his tenure as President, the financial assets of the College have increased five-fold. Dr. Nichols has seen the completion of the Horner Athletic Center, the Ogle House Conference Center, and the Science Facility. Under his leadership, Hanover College has increased its faculty by 33%, while maintaining capacity enrollment, producing a student/faculty ratio of 11/1. During this same period, the college has broadened its international study programs for both faculty and students, implemented an ongoing program to integrate the newest information technology into campus life, increased support for faculty research, and launched the Center for Free Inquiry and its affiliated programs. Dr. Nichols is dedicated to maintaining the stringent academic standards enjoyed by Hanover College and to enhancing its already positive image.

Dr. and Mrs. Nichols, both Presbyterian Elders, are members of the Hanover Presbyterian Church. Dr. Nichols is a Board member of the Madison Bank and Trust Company in Madison, Indiana and Co-Chairperson representing the Southeastern part of Indiana for the statewide "Give Five" committee sponsored by the Indiana Donors Alliance and the Indiana Humanities Council.