Over the past year, the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC) has navigated a period of presidential leadership transition. With the appointment of President Shauna Hannan in July 2025, the seminary entered a new season of leadership, which included the formation of a new administrative governance structure, consistent with standard practice during leadership transitions.
As part of that transition, and following established governance processes with appropriate Board support, Dr. Hannan announced changes to leadership roles, including Dr. Linda E. Thomas’s transition from Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs to full-time faculty status. This change reflects institutional discernment and remains in place.
Dr. Linda E. Thomas continues as a valued member of the LSTC faculty and a respected teacher and scholar. She declined to continue as Director of the Albert “Pete” Pero, Jr. and Cheryl Stewart Pero Center for Intersectionality Studies.
In response to concerns raised following the announcement and recognizing the broader impact of institutional change, Dr. Thomas and President Hannan engaged in a period of dialogue, supported by an independent facilitator selected by Dr. Thomas. This process allowed for reflection, clarity, and care for professional relationships and the community.
At Dr. Thomas’s request, she will take an extended leave. Upon her return in June 2027, she will resume full-time teaching as the Bernard, Fischer, Westberg Distinguished Professor of Theology and Anthropology.
LSTC remains grateful for Dr. Thomas’s many contributions and looks ahead with confidence, grounded in its mission, governance, and commitment to integrity and care.
Both Dr. Hannan and Dr. Thomas affirm this statement and wish to share the following words in their individual voices:
I have engaged in sustained, direct conversation with the President of the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago with the intention of repair, understanding, and restoration. This work has required honesty, patience, and a shared willingness to remain in relationship—work that is all too rare in our society and within institutions. After 25 years at LSTC and having taught and mentored multiple generations of students, I take my relationship with this school seriously. I believe we have done meaningful work, and I am ready to move forward with renewed focus, integrity, and continued love for the LSTC community and its mission.
-Rev. Linda E. Thomas, Ph.D.
I join others in acknowledging Dr. Linda Thomas’s impact as a teacher and scholar and in expressing care for her during this season of transition. She remains a full-time faculty member in good standing. I am grateful for the patient and open dialogue with Dr. Thomas over the past weeks, which has led to a satisfactory resolution. I share the concern that LSTC uphold its commitment to authentic diversity—a commitment reflected throughout our seminary and one that will be further strengthened through the work of the Albert “Pete” Pero, Jr. and Cheryl Stewart Pero Center for Intersectionality Studies. I pray Dr. Thomas’s well-deserved time of rest and renewal will be a blessing.
-Rev. Shauna K. Hannan, Ph.D.