Saint Paul School of Theology – Wednesday, 8 January 2014 - President's eUpdate “Where Are We Headed?”

Saint Paul School of Theology – Wednesday, 8 January 2014 - President's eUpdate “Where Are We Headed?”

While the Greater Kansas City campus has changed dramatically over the past few months, Saint Paul remains committed to its historic mission and vision.

For more than 50 years, the school's mission has centered on preparing leaders for the church's ministries. That has not changed, as our present mission statement makes clear: "Rooted in the Wesleyan tradition and committed to inspiring passion for ministry in diverse Christian bodies, Saint Paul School of Theology educates leaders to make disciples for Jesus Christ, renew the church, and transform the world."

The seminary's strategic vision emerges from its mission and remains intact as well: "A nationally recognized, destination United Methodist seminary that is a vibrant, innovative center of excellence in theological education, preparing leaders for congregations and faith communities."

When the new president begins work this summer, Saint Paul will embark on a strategic planning process to chart a way to move the school further toward that vision.

In the interim, the Board has adopted four strategic directions to ensure that all of us working for Saint Paul remain committed to our vision:

Fully develop the collaborations with The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection and Oklahoma City University to create an innovative model of theological education.

Develop an outstanding 21st century theological library on the Kansas City campus.

Recruit and develop an increasingly excellent faculty equipped to deliver a 21st century curriculum within a multi-site, collaborative model.

Develop a financially sound, sustainable, stable organization through increased enrollment, fundraising, and additional educational programs while providing enhanced financial support to students.

These strategic directions - adopted by the Board of Trustees in October - are a gift to the school and to me as acting president.

I have these before me each day, so that my work as acting president helps advance the seminary toward the future it has envisioned.

Until Saint Paul develops and adopts a strategic plan under the new president, they provide focus for our work in Kansas City and Oklahoma City and help us chose and work on the most vital tasks among the many good tasks each of us faces each day.

And, like the star the magi followed, our mission remains unaltered and guides Saint Paul into the future.

Grace to you and peace,

R. Kevin LaGree, Acting President

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Saint Paul School of Theology

4370 West 109th St, Suite 300

Overland Park, KS 66211

(913)253-5000

2501 North Blackwelder

Oklahoma City, OK  73106

(405)208-5757

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