7 Comments
User's avatar
C. Christopher Smith's avatar

I like this idea... but it seems a big ask of the presidents. It seems possible that ones that might be sympathetic to the ideas of FCU might be willing, but those who aren't might not be. And I'm not sure how you bridge that gap and get participation from a a broader range of presidents?

Expand full comment
John Hawthorne's avatar

Yes. That's one of many logistical dynamics I'd have to work my way through if this went forward.

Expand full comment
Angie Ward's avatar

Love this idea! I know there has been a lot of turnover in ATS schools as well.

Expand full comment
John E. Culp's avatar

Does the hiring of women presidents at Seattle Pacific and Bethel (IN) have any implications for how closely a Christian university adheres to specific theological positions?

Expand full comment
John Hawthorne's avatar

This has been a trend for awhile but not so much in reformed institutions.

Expand full comment
Richard W. Etulain's avatar

A couple of ideas, John, in dealing with the presidents: (1) the earlier transition from former pastors in the presidency to presidents with different backgrounds, especially academic backgrounds; (2) a parallel shift from presidents with honorary doctorates to those with an earned doctorate (we chuckled by saying the first got theirs by GRACE and the second by WORKS). My knowledge of presidents, of course, is limited, primarily to Nazarene colleges. VERY GOOD IDEA, JOHN; GO FOR IT. Dick Etulain

Expand full comment
David Terrell Ph. D.'s avatar

Yes, go for it! Boards of Trustees are critical and misunderstood. A well-functioning Board is absolutely necessary for the success of an institution, and the problem is that many times Boards are rubber-stamping the desires of presidents. It is very complicated and I think more research needs to be done.

Expand full comment