Dear Candler community,
I am deeply honored that Provost Bellamkonda has asked me to serve as Candler’s dean for a two-year term. Candler is a truly exceptional community that has shaped my career in profound ways. I have learned so much from staff, faculty, students, and alums over the years who have dedicated themselves to Candler’s mission and at the same time pushed the school to adapt and respond faithfully to the challenges that we face. The listening sessions and search process over the past eight months reinforced for me the unique place Candler holds not only in The United Methodist Church but in the broader landscape of theological education today. I am excited about the future of the school and the possibilities we have before us.
Dean Love leaves Candler in extraordinarily good shape. I am profoundly grateful for the unstinting leadership she has given to Candler over nearly 18 years, and in cooperation with you, I look forward to building on the strong programs and creative new initiatives that she has established with faculty and staff at Candler. There is no question that graduate theological education is in a turbulent position today with many headwinds. I am fully convinced that, among our peers, Candler is best poised to face these challenges and develop innovative approaches that will define the future of theological education.
I am eager to meet and hear from members from across the Candler community. We have much to accomplish in our shared mission together, and I look forward to strengthening old ties and forging new relationships as we embark on this work together.
Peace and blessings,
Jonathan Strom
Professor of Church History
Director of International Initiatives
Candler School of Theology | Emory University
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