Biola University formally inaugurated Dr. Ed Stetzer as the seventh dean of Talbot School of Theology in February, charging him to lead the school in its mission to to think biblically, live faithfully and lead graciously. The formal installation ceremony was held in Calvary Chapel on Biola’s campus.

Dr. Kenneth Ulmer, pastor of Faithful Central Missionary Baptist Church and a senior advisor to Biola’s president, commenced the ceremony with prayer. An array of key speakers offered words of blessing and encouragement over both Talbot and Stetzer, including Biola’s president, Dr. Barry H. Corey, Dr. Matthew J. Hall, Biola’s provost and senior vice president, Dr. David Dockery, president of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Dr. Eric Geiger, senior pastor of Mariners Church.

In his response, Stetzer acknowledged the challenges that higher education and Christian higher education in particular are facing.

“I am well aware of the challenges we face … but we are well-suited and well-prepared for those challenges here at Biola University,” said Stetzer in his address. “With commitment to God’s word, with a reputation that goes around the world, with world-class faculty and passionate students, we have the ability to thrive. I am here because I believe that together we will have a greater impact.”

A world-renowned missiologist, Stetzer has planted churches, served as a lead pastor, trained pastors and church planters on six continents, serves as editor-in-chief of Outreach Magazine, hosts a national radio show, “Ed Stetzer Live,” on 150 radio outlets, and has written hundreds of articles and 12 books.

“I am honored to be able to serve and provide leadership to this institution. Pray indeed that we make much of Jesus, and I look forward to making much of Jesus with you here at the Talbot School of Theology,” Stetzer said in his closing remarks.

Stetzer holds a Doctor of Philosophy from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry from Samford University’s Beeson Divinity School, in addition to a Master of Divinity from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Master of Arts from Liberty University’s Divinity School.