Tim Dolan (2006-present) director, master of arts in theology and Whitworth Institute for Clergy and Lay Leadership Development

I continue to appreciate being part of the theology & philosophy department at Whitworth University. In addition to teaching a biblical-literature course, the Life and Teachings of Jesus, for the department each semester, I also teach regularly for the evening continuing-studies program (Life and Teachings of Jesus and/or New Testament). The major change for me this year was being asked to direct our new master of arts in theology program. We are excited to see this program get off the ground after several years of discussion and planning. We have 22 students enrolled in our first cohort (more than we had anticipated), and we've been very pleased with the quality and experience of this first group of students. The program comprises 12 courses (10 core classes plus two electives) and should take about 27 months to complete. The MA in theology is designed to develop deeply committed, spiritually disciplined, visionary leaders for the church and society. It focuses not only on the classical biblical and theological disciplines, but also on practical ministry development and spiritual formation. Along with directing the program, I will also be teaching one of the core courses in pastoral ministry.    

In addition to my work with the MA in theology, I continue to direct the Whitworth Institute for Clergy and Lay Leadership Development through the Weyerhaeuser Center for Christian Faith and Learning. We offer several programs for clergy and laity through the center, including a certificate in lay ministry, a certificate in teaching the Bible, a preaching clinic, a diploma in lay pastoral ministry, and a pastors' reading group. I very much enjoy interacting with pastors and laypersons from congregations all over the Inland Northwest and beyond. I also serve part time (through the Weyerhaeuser Center) as a resource in leadership and organizational development for small urban and rural churches in our presbytery. One of our goals for the center this coming year is to continue to develop a new institute for rural ministry.    

On the home front, my oldest son, Andrew, who graduated from Whitworth two years ago with a degree in business, has been promoted to director of ticket sales for the Spokane Shock (Arena Football League). My daughter, Rachael, graduated from Whitworth this year with a degree in psychology and is not yet sure what her future plans are (expect working at Starbucks!). Next year will be the first time in six years that I have not had Andrew and/or Rachael singing in the Whitworth Choir. My youngest son, Pete, is also attending Whitworth and just finished up his freshman year. Debbie, my wife, continues her work as the center manager for Head Start at Spokane Community College.