LSTC Board Chair Terry Goff Announces Presidential Transition and Search Process

The Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC) is embarking on a significant transition following the announcement of President Jim Nieman’s retirement. In a recent video address to the LSTC community, Board Chair Terry Goff outlined the steps being taken to ensure a smooth and effective succession process.

At the heart of the transition is the formation of a search committee, chaired by Kristi Ferguson. Incoming board member Paul Herbs and Bishop Yehiel Curry will also serve on this committee. “We want everyone who desires to have a voice in this process,” Goff affirmed, announcing the upcoming “listening sessions” spearheaded by Matt Trainum, an education and leadership consultant will be working with the board during this process. The listening sessions are designed to gather direct input from faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders regarding the qualities and qualifications they seek in the next president.

Complementing the search committee is the transition committee, led by Harry Mueller, with incoming Board Chair Greg Lewis, Vice-Chair Mark Bartusch, and board members Greg Kaufman and Ginni Young. This group is tasked with ensuring a smooth transition by preparing a comprehensive send-off for President Nieman and developing onboarding and integration plans for the incoming leader.

Goff also mentioned ongoing efforts to define the parameters for interim leadership, with Maryjeanne Schaffmeyer, former board chair and current executive review committee member, overseeing this effort. Details regarding interim leadership will be forthcoming as the board continues to refine these plans.

Throughout his address, Goff reiterated the board’s commitment to transparency and community engagement. “We want to be open and transparent with you as we go through this process,” he assured, directing the community to a dedicated webpage, lstc.edu/president, that will provide regular updates on the succession process.

As LSTC prepares for this leadership change, the board encourages all members of the community to participate actively in the search and transition process. “Your voice is vital,” Goff concluded, inviting feedback and involvement from all corners of the LSTC community.

The announcement marks the beginning of a new chapter for LSTC, one that builds on the strong foundation established under President Nieman’s tenure and looks forward to the continued growth and evolution of the seminary in the years to come.