Calvin Theological Seminary President to Retire

Announced internally last November, Rev. Jul Medenblik intends to retire from the presidency of the 150-year-old seminary that serves the Christian Reformed Church of North America. This will conclude 16 years of stewardship at the Seminary, a period marked by significant changes in society, culture, and technology. 

At the outset of his tenure as president, Medenblik set a posture of service. A hallmark phrase he initiated at Calvin Theological Seminary, “Called To Serve,” uses the seminary's initials, CTS, and has since been ingrained in the institution's language and ethos for a decade and a half. 

In his internal announcement, he shared, “When I was called as President-elect in 2010, I could not imagine all that would unfold. Along the way, I have been inspired by students and alumni from across the globe. I have been blessed by staff, faculty, and Board members who encouraged and carried the vision for the work that we do – together.” 

His tenure is marked by the expansion and development of the Distance Learning Program, the Calvin Prison Initiative (C.P.I.), Spanish Language Program, a pilot in Competency-Based Education, a substantial remodeling of the Seminary building to meet the changing pedagogy of theological education, and a substantial investment in residential students' experience by building a brand-new student housing building. 

Apart from these tangible accomplishments, Medenblik instilled a culture of innovation and hospitality at Calvin Theological Seminary. His background in church-planting for

the CRCNA gave him a unique perspective of theology in action that has served the church well in the changing contexts in the US, Canada, and beyond. 

The search process for the next president has been ongoing since President Medenblik’s internal announcement in November. The Board has formed this Nominating Committee, which includes 4 board members, 3 faculty members, 3 at-large members, 1 staff member, and 1 student, in accordance with the board of directors' approved process, and retained JobfitMatters Executive Search to assist in identifying the next President. 

JobfitMatters is a Christian executive search firm with extensive experience serving Christ-centered ministries, nonprofits, schools, colleges, seminaries, and universities. In the coming weeks, the Nominating Committee and JobfitMatters will begin carefully listening to the CTS community through surveys, listening sessions, and stakeholder interviews. 

Additional information will be shared as the process develops, including opportunities to provide input and submit nominations. Many prospective candidates are currently serving in other ministries, so candidate confidentiality is maintained throughout the search process. 

Calvin Theological Seminary is a 150-year-old institution founded in 1876 that offers reformed theological education. Over its history, Calvin Seminary has built a reputation for academic excellence and holistic development. For more information, visit calvinseminary.edu.