Biblical Higher Ed Talk

Jason Mitchell , the senior pastor at LCBC (Lives Changed By Christ) Church in Pennsylvania, joins us to discuss the intersection of ministry and biblical higher education. With decades of pastoral experience, Jason reflects on his transformative journey into ministry, including key moments of personal surrender and vocational discovery. He shares the vital role Christian higher education played i...

In today’s higher ed landscape, more and more students are choosing to go to secular colleges and universities. How can educators bridge the gap between Christian K-12 and faith-based higher ed institutions? One word — relationships. By investing in relationships with local or national Christian K-12 institutions, the path is established early on for students to give your university a try. We’ve b...

Transitions in leadership are a critical moment for any organization, and in biblical higher education, they carry unique challenges and opportunities. Bryce Ashlin-Mayo , President of Ambrose University in Calgary, Alberta, joins us to reflect on his journey from pastoral ministry to academia and now to university leadership. Bryce shares how God guided him through unexpected transitions, lessons...

Welcome to the 2024 Biblical Higher Ed Talk Christmas Special! This year, we are joined by several members of Team ABHE to hear all about their Christmas traditions, memories, and what the celebration of Christ’s birth means to them. So grab some hot cocoa and settle in — but don’t take a long winter’s nap just yet because you won’t want to miss this holiday fun! Join us as we discuss:  [2:04] Tea...

Doug Clay , General Superintendent of the General Council of the Assemblies of God , joins the show to discuss the vital role of discipleship in biblical higher education and the broader church community.  Drawing from his journey as a third-generation Pentecostal preacher’s kid to leading a global denomination, Doug shares how defining moments and the local church shaped his ministry. He talks ab...

In this episode, we explore how the work college model is redefining holistic education at Kuyper College in Grand Rapids, MI.  President Patti Harris discusses how integrating learning, work, and service cultivates a student experience rooted in Christian principles that exemplify dignity and respect.  Learn about the unique challenges, intentional practices, and lasting impacts of this model tha...

Many biblical higher ed institutions measure success in several different ways. For Stark College & Seminary , success is reflected in three key areas: building and serving your external network, having diverse leadership, and utilizing a data dashboard. Stark’s president, Tony Celelli , breaks down Stark’s internal processes that help them stay student-oriented and mission-focused. Join us as...

After 30 years behind the pulpit before transitioning to higher ed, President Michael Pawelke of Briercrest College and Seminary shares his experiences from 11 years as a college president. We talk through brand clarification and what it’s like to implement intense transformation in an institution, such as a name change or program reductions. Our conversation also dives into what it means to be a...

From the battlefields in Ukraine to American prisons, chaplains are in high demand. That’s why our guest James Kirkland , the Executive Director of Christian Chaplains & Coaching , believes chaplains will eventually become the preeminent ambassadors of the mission community. In this episode, we dive into the chaplain experience and break down how someone can become mission-fit in response to G...

Taking on a higher ed leadership role when an institution is already in a deficit can be a grim prospect. It’s a challenge that requires an adaptive learner who isn’t afraid of forward momentum. It takes transparency, relationship-building, and honest conversations. That’s why we’re talking to Frank Weller , President of Great Lakes Christian College . Frank shares how his administration leveraged...

The book of Jude is one of the smallest chapters in the New Testament — but it actually packs more punch than you think. We’re talking with Andy Miller , the President of Wesley Biblical Seminary , about this mighty little chapter. He literally wrote a book on it — Contender: Going Deeper in the Book of Jude . In this episode, we explore the book of Jude and how it translates into our current soci...

Michael Lindsay , President of Taylor University , joins the show to share how the principles of grace and truth guide his leadership, especially in the turbulent times facing Christian higher education. Michael tells us why he believes the pandemic elevated expectations for the value proposition of biblical higher ed and how Christian leaders can turn these challenges into opportunities. He also...

Michael Ortiz , the Executive Director of The International Council for Evangelical Theological Education (ICETE), joins the show to discuss current and future developments in global theological education. Michael unpacks the expanding role of non-formal pastoral training programs, connecting formal and non-formal education sectors, and the importance of global partnerships in equipping the next g...

A Chief Financial Officer can sometimes make or break an institution. Therefore, getting to know your CFO’s role and strengthening the lines of communication between a CFO and other team members is critical. We’re talking to Bruce Hoeker , the Executive Director at the Association of Business Administrators of Christian Colleges (ABACC), about the crucial role CFOs play in an organization and how...

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...