This April, NNU alumnus Dr. Jeren Rowell (’83) was elected as the 11th president of Nazarene Theological Seminary (NTS). This election followed a comprehensive search process that began in July. Dr. Rowell was approved by the trustees of NTS on October 12, 2017.

“In his forty years as a pastor-scholar, Dr. Rowell has consistently proven his effectiveness as a leader, pastor, author and professor,” said President Joel Pearsall. “His experience and passion for theological education will undoubtedly strengthen Nazarene Theological Seminary and her academic programs. We look forward to the future as Dr. Rowell’s leadership continues to positively impact Christian higher education and the Church of the Nazarene.”

“His experience and passion for theological education will undoubtedly strengthen NTS and her academic programs.”

Dr. Rowell served in churches in Nampa, Idaho and Chicago, Illinois before pastoring the Shawnee Church of the Nazarene in Kansas from 1991 to 2005 when he was elected Kansas City district superintendent. He has served on the NTS board since 2005, and as chair from 2009 until earlier this year.

He is a graduate of Northwest Nazarene University (BA in Philosophy and Religion) and Olivet Nazarene University (MA in Religion, EdD in Ethical Leadership). He has served as an adjunct professor for both NTS and Olivet. Dr. Rowell has authored several books and numerous articles on pastoral theology and practice. He is also a frequent speaker in churches, workshops, college and seminary classes, retreats and marriage enrichment events.

Congratulations to Dr. Jeren Rowell on his election!

Photo courtesy of Nazarene Theological Seminary.