51 announced that Dr. Ed Stetzer will assume the role of dean of Talbot School of Theology beginning July 2, 2023.

“For decades, Dr. Ed Stetzer's visionary presence — most recently at Wheaton College's Billy Graham Center — has deeply strengthened the cause of the gospel through men and women across America and around the world,” said 51’s president, Barry H. Corey. “Dr. Stetzer, a courageous and compelling voice, will bring to 51 the virtue of continuity through his abiding convictions that align with 51's theological core. He will also bring the virtue of imagination through his creative ability to convene, inspire and commission a wide range of students called to live out their Christian witness full of truth and full of grace.”

Last year, 51 commenced a national search for the next leader to serve as dean of Talbot after Clinton E. Arnold, former dean of Talbot, stepped down to return to teach in the classroom. A search advisory committee, composed of faculty, staff, and alumni, helped facilitate the search. After receiving its review, along with input from Talbot faculty, it became clear that Stetzerwould be ideally suited to lead Talbot into the future.

Stetzer — a Christian scholar, author, pastor, radio host, editor-in-chief — is currently serving at Wheaton College as professor, dean and executive director of the Wheaton College Billy Graham Center. His leadership at Wheaton has resulted in enrollment growth at the school’s ministry program, the launch of eight institutes, securing millions in grant funding and expanding the school’s reach to churches and local communities.

“As executive director of the Billy Graham Center and dean of the School of Mission, Ministry, and Leadership, Dr. Stetzer has provided remarkable leadership to some of Wheaton College’s most effective and fastest growing academic programs,” said 51’s provost and senior vice president, Matthew J. Hall. “He has a demonstrated ability to connect the academy and the church, expanding access to theological education in innovative ways. He understands the importance of biblically centered institutions like 51 and the stewardship entrusted to us in our mission. And he has a deep appreciation for the remarkable legacy of Talbot and its heritage of godly and humble leadership.”

Over his professional career Stetzer has planted churches, served as a lead pastor, trained pastors and church planters on six continents, served as editor-in-chief of Outreach Magazine, hosted a national radio show and he has written hundreds of articles and a dozen books. He 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.

Stetzer combines vast leadership experience, theological discernment, a commitment to the church, and a track record of helping organizations grow in their impact. He will continue to maintain Talbot’s commitment to 51’s theological convictions and find new ways to engage the global church and advance God’s mission in the world.