According to a release from Covenant Theological Seminary the Board of Trustees, at its April 2012 meeting, unanimously moved forward with a goal set in prior years to transition President Bryan Chapell to the role of Chancellor. Effective June 1, 2012 Chapell will move from president of Covenant Seminary to the new position. As Chancellor, Chapell will represent the seminary among its external constituencies; he will continue his teaching duties, and engage “in opportunities that advance the gospel.”

“My wife, Kathy, and I have considered it a great privilege to serve the Covenant Seminary family, the PCA, and Christ’s body by helping to prepare future church leaders to proclaim the gospel of grace,” Chapell said. “We now give special thanks to our God for a board that has provided this opportunity to direct our energies to the areas of service we most treasure.”

The Board of Trustees named Dr. Mark Dalbey, current vice president for academics, Interim President, effective June 1, 2012. Dalbey began serving at Covenant Seminary in 1999 after 15 years of pastoral ministry. He has served for 10 years as Dean of Students, followed by three years as vice president for academics. Dalbey also serves as assistant professor of practical theology. As Interim President, Dalbey will assume the management of the institution’s operations and academics.

A search committee, comprised of representatives from the faculty, staff, and board of trustees, will begin a formal process of recommending a new president. Walt Turner, a board member, PCA ruling elder, and former board chairman, will lead that effort.

Board Chairman Bill French noted, “We are grateful to the Lord for the 25 years of dedicated leadership from Dr. Chapell, and look forward to his participation in a new role, championing the mission of Covenant Theological Seminary, and proclaiming the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.”