Biblical Higher Ed Talk

Peter Teague , a seasoned leader with over 50 years in Christian education, joins us to share valuable insights from his leadership journey. The President Emeritus of Lancaster Bible College reflects on his career, discussing pivotal moments, the importance of being student-centered, and the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance. We also talk about Peter’s latest book, Jesus Leader , which...

Carlo Serrano , President of Manna University and a U.S. Army veteran, shares how his military background has shaped his leadership in biblical higher education. Carlo discusses the importance of understanding military culture for student recruitment and retention in higher education and how integrating that experience can enhance institutional leadership and student success. Join us as Carlo offe...

Some biblical higher ed administrations balk at the notion of submitting grant proposals to secular organizations, fearing meddling or conflict with their institutions’ missions. But Daniel Ruarte , Provost and VP of Academic Affairs at Life Pacific University (LPU), believes several unjustified misconceptions around alignment belie those concerns. Daniel shares how grants have uplifted LPU’s stud...

With five decades of higher ed administrative experience, John Derry , President Emeritus of Hope International University , has experienced many highs and lows in dealing with biblical higher ed board governance. Recently, ABHE has been blessed to have John as a coach in our board governance training program. Tune in to this episode to hear John break down some common warning signs of ineffective...

To celebrate our 50th episode, we’re excited to chat with Aaron Shust, an award-winning Christian songwriter and performer. In anticipation of his appearance at ABHE’s 2025 Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida, Aaron joined us to talk about his journey as a professional music artist. You won’t want to miss this insightful peek into Aaron’s start as a church worship leader, his songwriting process, a...

Fundraising — just one word is enough to fill some college leadership with insurmountable dread. For others, it’s a chance to put their best foot forward and to potentially set a predecessor up for success. For Mark Maxwell , the President of Prairie College , it’s about calling on God for His advice, weeding out people who may not be mission-driven, and looking to leave a legacy. In this episode,...

You may be able to describe a scripture passage, but have you actually sat down to read and digest it? When was the last time you devoted uninterrupted time to God’s Word? Public reading of scripture (PRS) is designed to help you do just that – reconnect with God’s word through small group readings. Step into the intentional public reading of scripture with the Managing Director at The Grace and M...

People are craving authenticity more than ever, especially your prospective Gen Alpha and Gen Z students. That’s why we’re chatting with Rodney Garber , the President Visionary of Activate Your Influence, about the necessity of executive coaching for businesses and university personnel. If you’re feeling burnt out, stuck, or even notice yourself getting short-tempered – it may be time to turn to e...

The American political ecosystem has been rife with uncertainty since the pandemic, and private higher education institutions have felt the ripples of tightening government regulations. That’s why Barbara Mistick , President of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU), argues schools need to start sharing student stories with elected officials. Barbara believes tha...

Gary Stratton , the Dean of Arts & Sciences at Johnson University , has a burning passion for discipleship in biblical higher ed classrooms. Drawing from the profound relationship between Jesus and His apostles, Gary articulates why educators should embody the principles of discipleship and community in their interactions with students. The author of The Jesus Climb: Journeying From Student to...

Most people conjure a first impression within seconds. That's why having unparalleled hospitality is essential to institutional success. The keys to successful hospitality are creativity in trying new ideas, intentionality in planning, and reliance on spiritual gifts. We’re joined by Carol Dibble , the Chief of Staff & Director of Communications at ABHE . For over 25 years, Carol has been dedi...

Strong leaders uplift other aspiring leaders. That’s why ABHE is committed to growing the skills of faithful leaders, including through a series of leadership development conferences. We’re joined by David Medders , Executive VP for ABHE , to talk about leadership development programming. Find out how you can grow alongside other leaders — everyone is welcome! In this episode, we dive into ABHE le...

Your employees make up the total package of your organization. Isn’t it time to present them with the total package, too? By giving your employees relevant insurance options, detailing the extent of their packages, and helping them to become conscious consumers, you’re setting your staff up for success. That’s why we’re talking to John Staub , the Director of Growth Marketing at Remodel Health . J...

Whether in the classroom, the dining hall, on the court, or in the dorms, integrating faith with intentionality can happen anywhere on a college campus. Starting small and remaining intentional with a Christ-centered focus may be tough at first, but you don’t have to be a scholar to find support and share the word of God. We’re joined by David Cook & Brent Thomason , the Co-authors of Integrat...

After a steady rise during the 2010s, the podcast industry exploded during the pandemic. As of 2024, over 5 million podcasts populate the global airwaves. So is there room in the audio space for your faith-based school or organization to use this platform to get your message out to the masses? Robb Conlon , Founder of Westport Studios , believes there is. You simply have to be mindful of your nich...

Obligations in the board governance and strategic planning of biblical higher ed institutions often get a bit murky. If a school ultimately fails to support leadership in reaching its goals, who’s responsible? Scott Rodin, Chief Strategy Officer and Senior Consultant with The FOCUS Group , believes the school’s board chair must instill a culture that embraces God’s vision for its campus. Only then...

Too often, we get wrapped up in furthering our personal mission instead of God’s. With deadlines to meet, credits to fulfill, and schedules busier than ever, faith and biblical integration can get thrown to the wayside. But faith-based integration in and out of the classroom will better equip the future leaders of tomorrow. Ready to put on the full armor of God? We’re getting the ball rolling with...

We’re taking the road less traveled from the lower 48 to rural Alaska. Serving the students from indigenous villages of Alaska takes a focused but mighty mission. Bringing the Word of the Lord, accompanied by college preparation, impacts these individuals for a lifetime by providing a comfortable space for these students to unpack baggage and embrace education. Keith Hamilton , President of Alaska...

Optimizing your institution's business model is crucial in the evolving landscape of higher ed. With a focus on mission alignment and building future influential leaders, some universities have seen big changes. But not every institution is willing to roll up its sleeves and do the hard work. Re-examining operational efficiencies may be the key to your university sinking or swimming. We’re kicking...

Enrollment needs to focus on relational sales with your “customer” — the prospective student. Personalizing connections and conversations will leave your customers more confident about potentially enrolling in your institution. That’s why we’ve invited Ryan Dougherty, Principal Partner at TG Three , to talk about all things enrollment, relational sales, and the dreaded enrollment cliff. In this ep...

The dreaded two words we hear time and time again: “enrollment cliff.” Although the enrollment cliff is inevitable, it may be an opportunity for your institution to prove what truly makes it unique. Even amidst the FAFSA challenges, admissions offices can remain people-focused and show what differentiates your university from the next. Your institution will not only change a student's life but can...

God commanded in Joshua 1:9, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” To be able to build bridges in our institutions, we need to be strong and courageous, just as Christ was. Being confident allows others to find their own strength and grow into the next university leader, pastor, or humble servant. Staying assure...

Saying the words “finances” or “alternative revenue” can sometimes make individuals in your institution run for the hills. Higher ed professionals need to take the pressure away from these conversations to allow for untapped innovation. Having the patience to explain a financial statement or an audit sheet can tear down the all-too-common silos around financial situations. That’s why we’re talking...

Jeremiah 17:7 says, “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him.” In the fast-paced world that college presidents must navigate, it’s hard to be everywhere at once. We can’t predict the future. Ditching long-range planning and trusting in God’s present plan allows for an opportunity mindset. Taking time to rest allows for intentionality in showing up where it matters...

The pandemic spotlighted the alarming rise of social disconnection and loneliness among today's college and university students. Todd Hall , Founder and CEO of Flourishing Metrics and Professor of Psychology at Biola University , believes there is a direct correlation between our current state of spirituality and this human relationship crisis. He fears many biblical higher ed institutions are fai...