hero default image
News |
Contact:
Wes Browning
Office of Communications & Marketing
Columbia Theological Seminary
(404) 687-4622
browningw@ctsnet.edu
DECATUR — Columbia Theological Seminary’s Board of Trustees affirmed a strategic realignment plan presented by the President’s Council, adopted a balanced budget for the 2026–2027 fiscal year, and approved the granting of degrees for Spring 2026 graduation at its recent Board meeting of May 7–8, 2026.
Additionally, the Board promoted one faculty member to the rank of full professor, awarded emeritus status to two retiring professors, and elected three new trustees and a new vice chair.
Affirming the work of the Seminary’s administration in completing a comprehensive institutional assessment, the Board approved a realignment plan that includes a reduction in staffing. The assessment was guided by four strategic priorities essential to institutional vitality:
The realignment is intended to position the Seminary to continue supporting students while sustaining the academic strength and integrity of its curriculum and programs.
“The Board of Trustees has affirmed the plan presented by our President’s Council with gratitude and care. We believe it is thoughtful and faithful work that will help the Seminary remain focused on forming imaginative, faithful pastoral leaders for the Church and the world,” said Board Chair Rev. Elizabeth C. Goodrich.
“Columbia is financially strong, and at the same time we recognize that a changing church and world invites us to listen closely, act wisely, and steward our resources in ways that align deeply with our mission.”
Board Chair Goodrich also stated that “Throughout our meetings, we not only engaged the practical needs of Columbia Seminary today, but we also paused to pray—seeking the guidance of the God we trust to lead us, sustain us, and shape our future.”
Among its most important responsibilities, the Board approved the conferral of degrees on 50 students pending successful completion of academic and institutional graduation requirements. The graduates will be honored at the Seminary’s May 23 Commencement Ceremony.
Additionally, the Board approved the promotion of Dr. Mindy McGarrah Sharp to Professor of Practical Theology and Pastoral Care. Sharp holds a PhD and MA from Vanderbilt University, an MAR from Yale Divinity School, and a BA from the University of Virginia. She is the author of the recently released publication Listening for Liberation: Sound Practices of Intercultural Spiritual Care (Fortress Press).
Trustees also honored seven employees retiring at the conclusion of the academic year:
The Board awarded faculty emeritus status to Dr. Brown, the William Marcellus McPheeters Professor of Old Testament, and to Dr. Tribble, Associate Professor of Ministry.
The Board recognized trustees completing their terms this year:
Three new trustees were elected, with terms beginning this fall:
Rev. Dr. Brian C. Henderson, pastor of historic St. James Presbyterian Church in Charleston, S.C., was elected vice chair of the Board. He will serve alongside the other elected officers: Rev. Elizabeth C. Goodrich, chair, and Rev. Kathy Wolf Reed, secretary, who are each serving their second year in their roles.
Columbia Theological Seminary, located in Decatur, Georgia, educates and nurtures faithful, imaginative, and effective leaders for the church and the world.
Founded in 1828, the Seminary is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and offers a range of graduate theological degrees, including the Master of Divinity, Master of Arts, and Doctor of Ministry.
Rooted in a commitment to academic excellence, spiritual formation, and contextual engagement, Columbia forms leaders who are equipped to serve diverse communities and address the complex challenges facing the church and society today. Through innovative teaching, global partnerships, and a vibrant residential and online learning community, Columbia seeks to embody its mission of preparing leaders for a changing world.
