LSTC’s February Board Meeting: Embracing New Leadership and Celebrating Milestones
The February Board Meeting of the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago marked a period of transition, institutional progress, and continued dedication to our mission of forming visionary leaders for the church and world. The meeting brought together board members from across the institution, who engaged in discussions on leadership transitions, financial updates, faculty support, and student advocacy.
Welcoming President Michael Cooper-White
LSTC is pleased to welcome Rev. Michael Cooper-White, M.Div., D.D., who officially began his tenure as Interim President on February 17, 2025. President Cooper-White brings decades of experience in pastoral leadership, seminary administration, and institutional governance. His appointment, secured through The Registry, will provide LSTC with steady leadership during this transitional period while the search for a permanent president continues. President Cooper-White’s impressive career includes 17 years as president of Gettysburg Seminary, where he was instrumental in the creation of the Seminary Ridge Museum and the unification of Gettysburg and Philadelphia Seminaries into United Lutheran Seminary. He has also served as Interim President at Brite Divinity School in Fort Worth, Texas. An accomplished news reporter and experienced pilot, President Cooper-White is eager to serve alongside LSTC’s students, faculty, staff, and board members as we continue our mission in these pivotal times.
Financial and Governance Updates
LSTC received an unqualified “clean” audit report, a testament to the institution’s fiscal responsibility and sound financial management. This positive outcome reflects the diligent work of our financial team and the continued oversight of the Board’s Finance and Operations Committee.
In addition, the Finance and Operations Committee reaffirmed its commitment to evaluating the seminary’s housing resources. With an eye toward both student needs and long-term sustainability, the committee will continue its work exploring viable long-term plans for LSTC’s campus housing.
The Board also elected Joseph Falese of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod as secretary.
Faculty Sabbaticals
The Board approved sabbaticals for three esteemed faculty members, recognizing the importance of research, scholarship, and renewal in strengthening LSTC’s academic mission. Assistant Professor of Lutheran Systematic Theology and Global Lutheranism, Candace Kohli, will use this time to further her theological research and contributions to Lutheran studies. Augustana Heritage Professor of Global Mission and World Christianity, Peter Vethanayagamony, will focus on expanding his scholarship in global mission work and interfaith engagement. Associate Professor of Church and Society and Ethics, Marvin E. Wickware Jr., will devote his sabbatical to exploring contemporary ethical issues in the church and society. These sabbaticals will provide vital opportunities for these faculty members to advance their academic work and bring renewed insights into their teaching at LSTC.
Presidential Search and Transition Updates
The Search and Transition Committees, led by Kristi Ferguson and Harry Mueller, provided an update on the ongoing presidential search process, which remains on track. In February, the candidate pool was narrowed to four finalists, each of whom will receive a comprehensive overview of LSTC’s status and institutional health.
As the search proceeds with finalist candidates, it is anticipated that the entire community will have opportunity to engage during on-campus visits prior to the end of the spring semester. Feedback from students, faculty, and staff will be shared with the search committee as it makes a final recommendation to the Board of Directors.
Affirming Institutional Commitments
Finally, the Board reaffirmed its commitment to supporting students, faculty, and staff in alignment with LSTC’s values. Recognizing the challenges of this moment, the board and faculty reiterate our school’s dedication to forming leaders who serve with courage, compassion, and justice. LSTC remains steadfast in its commitments to anti-racism, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, interfaith engagement, economic justice, and environmental stewardship. As a public church, we will continue to provide an environment that nurtures and equips students for leadership amid the complexities of today’s world.
The February Board Meeting reinforced LSTC’s commitment to thoughtful leadership, responsible stewardship, and unwavering dedication to its mission. With the appointment of President Cooper-White, a successful financial audit, and continued progress in the presidential search, LSTC remains well-positioned to navigate this period of transition with faith and purpose.