From confusion to clarity: Strengthening your school's brand

Federal policy shifts are reshaping higher education, and as details are still being understood, Peter Lake and David Rowe discuss what they mean for theological schools and how leaders can prepare.

Competency-based theological education (CBTE) is reshaping how future church leaders are formed – and it’s more than just skills training. In this episode, Dr. Susan Reese of Kairos University and Dr. Nathan Hitchcock, CBTE consultant, discuss how this approach emphasizes character, spiritual formation, and lived practice alongside academics. From mentoring and integration with local churches to assessing “heart” competencies like friendship, rest, and resilience, they also discuss issues like assessment and rigor, and offer reasons why schools may consider CBTE.

Focus on the critical role boards play in large-scale collaborations

As the Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative reaches its midpoint, theological schools are navigating both promising innovations and growing tensions. In this episode, Matt Hufman speaks with Jo Ann Deasy of ATS and Amy Kardash of the In Trust Center about how schools are reassessing mission, sustainability, and alignment.

How theological schools can navigate complex personnel decisions during large-scale collaborations.

As the world of artificial intelligence advances in theological education, leaders can stay ahead and find ways forward. In this episode, the Rev. Tay Moss, who has been a leading voice on AI in the Church and theological education, considers how leaders and institutions can engage AI wisely – balancing innovation, ethics, and integrity.

What it takes to lead successful institutional collaborations

The formal process of transferring control between institutional boards

Assessing organizational readiness for change and preparing multiple institutions for intensive cooperation.

Strategies for communicating an institution's brand value to prospective partners

What happens when federal education policy changes, roiling higher education, without specifically mentioning theological education? The Rev. Dr. David Rowe and Law Professor Peter Lake unpack the ripple effects of new regulations, executive orders, and court cases on theological schools. From accreditation challenges to spiritual care for students and the risk of mission drift, this conversation offers thoughtful frameworks for boards and presidents navigating chaos.