Dr. Jeff Gill, vice president of the School of Ministry Studies at Grace College and dean of Grace Theological Seminary, has submitted his resignation effective July 31, 2018.
Jeff assumed leadership of the seminary in 2002 at a time when the school was struggling. Since then, he has assembled a highly-regarded faculty, helped craft a new identity for the school, and initiated the Deploy program, the online program that partners with local churches to train pastors and leaders. In addition, he has served as professor of pastoral studies at the seminary.
“I have come to the conclusion that the skill set required for the dean’s role is no longer as close a fit to my own gifts and abilities as it was 16 years ago when I accepted the call to lead the seminary,” Gill said yesterday in an email sent on Tuesday to the college and seminary faculty and staff. “I believe that now is the time to seek God’s leading for a calling that is a better fit for what He has prepared me to be and do at this stage in my life and ministry journey.”
While he does not have a role he is stepping into, he is excited about seeing what “next assignment” God has for him. “Kathy and I appreciate your prayers as we seek His leading over the next few months,” he added.
Dr. Bill Katip, president of Grace College and Seminary, said, “We are grateful for the many positive contributions Jeff has made during his 16 years at Grace, especially his leadership and strong pastoral care over the years.”
Prior to joining the faculty, Dr. Gill served as the pastor of the Grace Brethren Church, Delaware, Ohio, for 20 years.