It is with great delight I announce that Dr. Colleen Derr has been named the new President of Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University. She will succeed Dr. Jo Anne Lyon, who has served as interim leader since the departure of Dr. Wayne Schmidt, the founding leader of the Seminary. Dr. Derr’s new role will begin July 1, 2017.
Dr. Derr has been a part of Wesley Seminary since 2011, serving as a faculty member and Assistant Dean. She has served as the chair of the Seminary faculty, as a member of the University Faculty Senate and been active on numerous university committees. She played an integral role in the development of the Master of Arts in Children, Youth and Family Ministry and is currently part of the team developing a Doctor of Ministry in Spiritual Formation that is scheduled to launch in the fall 2018. Dr. Derr is a respected teacher, researcher, leader and colleague.
Before joining the seminary faculty, Dr. Derr served as a denominational leader through multiple leadership positions in The Wesleyan Church. She is an ordained elder and has served in pastoral ministry.
Dr. Derr has earned a reputation as an advocate and resource for an array of church ministries, an effective administrator and a wise and dynamic leader.
Her educational achievements include an M.A. in Ministry Leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University, and an Ed.D. in Christian Education Leadership from Regent University.
Dr. Derr is married to Wayne Derr, and they have four adult children, Jerica, Zachary, Tyler and Anna.
We are grateful that God has prepared Dr. Derr for this work and look forward to her leadership.
Wesley Seminary is a special place that has developed quality programs and faculty since it opened in 2009 on Indiana Wesleyan’s Marion campus. The seminary now serves more than 500 students in 34 states and 11 countries. It is being used by God to engage and equip pastors to lead their churches and reach individuals for Christ.
We have a great sense of anticipation for the new vistas of service that God will open to the faculty, staff and students of Wesley Seminary in the years to come.
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Colleen Derr as the President of Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University.
