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Asbury Seminary Appoints Interim Provost and Interim Dean to Navigate Transition Period

Published Date: May 1, 2024

Asbury Seminary announces the appointment of Dr. John Ragsdale as Interim Provost and Dr. Jonathan Powers as Interim Dean of the E. Stanley Jones School of Mission and Ministry. These appointments come as the institution enters a period of transition, aiming to maintain continuity and excellence in its academic leadership. Asbury Seminary’s current provost, Dr. Gregg Okesson, announced his plan to return to teaching earlier this month. Dr. Steven Ybarrola, the current dean of the E. Stanley Jones School of Mission and Ministry, plans to retire in June 2024.

Dr. John Ragsdale currently serves as the Associate Provost of Academic Affairs at Asbury Seminary. He brings a wealth of experience to the interim role, including strategic planning, assessment, program review, and external funding within higher education administration. Dr. Ragsdale holds an M.A. in Biblical Languages from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. in Religious Studies from Marquette University.

Likewise, Dr. Jonathan Powers brings a proven track record of leadership and academic excellence. He currently serves as the Associate Dean of the E. Stanley Jones School of Mission and Ministry, and he is also the Assistant Professor of Worship Studies within the school. Dr. Powers holds a B.A. in English from Asbury University, an M.A. in Christian Ministries from ɧƵ, and a D.W.S. from The Robert E. Webber Institute for Worship Studies. He recently defended his Ph.D. dissertation through The London School of Theology on the worship theology of Robert E. Webber.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Ragsdale and Dr. Powers to their newly appointed roles. As we entrust this transition to God’s divine providence, we believe their leadership will be instrumental in maintaining our sacred mission of equipping servant-leaders for Christ’s kingdom. We look forward to their leadership and the continued success of the Seminary,” says Dr. Timothy Tennent, President of Asbury Seminary.

Dr. Ragsdale and Dr. Powers will officially assume their responsibilities on July 1, 2024.

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