Andrew K. Benton has served in higher education for more than twenty-seven years. A native of Lawrence, Kansas, he planned for a career as an attorney or probate judge in his hometown and focused his education toward those interests. The desire to work with young people in their own pursuit of higher education was strong, so he followed a career path that led to his current role as the seventh president of Pepperdine University. He assumed this position on June 16, 2000, succeeding his friend and mentor, David Davenport.

Benton received his bachelor of science in American studies from Oklahoma Christian University and went on to earn the juris doctor degree from Oklahoma City University School of Law. He was admitted to the Oklahoma State Bar in 1979 and later to practice before federal courts. For ten years, Benton served in various administrative roles at his undergraduate alma mater. From 1979 until 1983 he also maintained a private law practice in Oklahoma.

His experience at Pepperdine, beginning in 1984, is extensive and includes service as chief of staff for sixth president David Davenport, as well as in various senior administrative posts, including chief development officer. Throughout his career at Pepperdine, Benton has invested himself in external relations, governmental and regulatory matters, securing approvals critical to the University's future, often under adverse circumstances.

In 1991, Benton was appointed to serve as Pepperdine's executive vice president and chief operational officer, working closely with the general counsel, the chief financial officer, physical plant and construction, Athletics, Personnel Services, government relations, public affairs, and various community outreach activities. He also served as liaison to the Board of Regents and, during two extended presidential sabbaticals, as acting president.

President Benton teaches courses within the University on a regular basis and is deeply involved in the lives of students. He is active in many legal, educational, athletic, and community organizations, including the American Bar Association, the American Association of Presidents of Independent Colleges and Universities, the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities, the American Council on Education, the executive committee of The Employers Group, and the Presidents Council of the West Coast Conference. He is also a member of the Jonathan Club.

Andy Benton considers himself most fortunate to have married his wife, Debby, twenty-seven years ago. They have two children, Hailey, a junior at Seaver College, and Christopher, a junior in high school. The family resides on the campus of Pepperdine University in Malibu.