Columbia Seminary Board affirms strategic realignment, approves 2026–27 budget
The Board also elects new trustees and awards emeritus status to two retiring professors
DECATUR, Georgia — 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 May 7-8. 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: enrollment management and retention, financial viability, communications and institutional storytelling, and structural efficiency. 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 the 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.”
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. She is the author of a 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: Ann Clay Adams, William P. Brown, Bob Craigmile, Jeffery L. Tribble, Sr., Val Thompson, Jeff Vaughan and Charles A. Wiley. The Board awarded faculty emeritus status to Brown, the William Marcellus McPheeters Professor of Old Testament, and to Tribble, Associate Professor of Ministry.
The Board recognized trustees completing their terms this year: Elizabeth Clayton of Greer, South Carolina; the Rev. Chris Henry of Indianapolis, Indiana; the Rev. Francis Junghoon Son of Lawrenceville, Georgia; the Rev. Dr. Scott Weimer of Vinings, Georgia; and the Rev. Dr. Damon Williams of Atlanta.
Three new trustees were elected, with terms beginning this fall: the Rev. Dr. Joe Evans of Marietta, Georgia; Rev. Dr. Tom Walker of Charlotte, N.C. and Mr. T. Clark Simmons of Decatur, Ga.
The Rev. Dr. Brian C. Henderson, pastor of St. James Presbyterian Church in Charleston, South Carolina, was elected vice chair of the board. He will serve alongside the other elected officers: Goodrich and the Rev. Kathy Wolf Reed, secretary, who are each serving their second year in their roles.
About Columbia Theological Seminary
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.
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