Nationwide Search Begins for New Ministry & Theology Dean

We are thrilled to announce that we have launched a nationwide search for a new dean to lead our Barnett College of Ministry & Theology (BCMT). We are seeking a visionary leader who is equipped to guide and oversee our ministry and theology programs, faculty, and students at our main campus in Lakeland, as well as the many partners within the SEU Ministry Network.

Executive Vice President Dr. Chris Owen has been serving as the interim dean of the college since the spring of 2022. Under his leadership, the college officially introduced the Center for Sustainable Ministry to bring a renewed emphasis to pastoral training and focus on the health and wellness of ministry leaders.

“Dr. Owen has truly played an integral role in the growth and advancement of the Barnett College during his time as dean, and I am so grateful for his leadership and willingness to serve,” said President Kent Ingle. “He led the charge in furthering the development of the resources we use to educate our students and serve the local church.”

What We’re Looking For

The new dean will be expected to prioritize excellence in program design across multiple deliveries at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. They will need to be committed to stewarding the history of SEU’s ministry and theology programs, while also remaining focused on continuous growth, innovation, and expansion of future initiatives and strategic objectives.

“Deans at SEU need a hunger for kingdom wins and the capacity to achieve them. The Lord has been faithful in bringing in an exceptional team of academic deans that are second to none. We are already praying for the next member of the SEU dean team, as this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime group of leaders gathered together for serious kingdom impact,” expressed Provost and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Meghan Griffin.  

Other responsibilities for the new dean include faculty and thought leadership, strategic planning, and academic management. 

The Impact of the Barnett College of Ministry & Theology

At SEU, the Barnett College is uniquely positioned to affect our identity as a Christ-centered university. It keeps us in touch with our heritage as a Bible college and shapes our mission of helping students discover and develop their divine design. 

“The Barnett College is the bridge to our entire SEU Ministry Network, which consists of over 200 churches across the country and now spreading around the world,” emphasized President Ingle. “What’s been crucial to its growth, and the success of our entire university, is the way we serve the local church.” 

Between the traditional campus and the ministry network, SEU has become the second largest producer of ministry degrees in the United States as found by The Chronicle of Higher Education.

Apply Now

The priority application deadline for the position is February 14, 2024, and the anticipated start date is April 1, 2024. The application window is now open! To see the complete list of requirements and responsibilities for the role, or to apply, click here.

Questions or nominations relating to the position can be sent to provostoffice@seu.edu.

Learn More

Ministry & Theology Degree Programs
Employment at SEU
Apply to SEU

More Stories

Weather Update graphic

Weather Updates—Helene

Update — Sept. 27, 9:00 AM All severe weather watches/warnings have expired for our area. Grounds personnel are clearing debris from campus, but no hazards

Read More »