New dean of Bible, new faculty in family relations and Bible appointed
Kim Chaudoin | 615.966.6494 |
Nationally recognized authors, researchers and academicians Leonard and Holly Allen have recently accepted appointments at Lipscomb University, Provost W. Craig Bledsoe announced today.
National Restoration Movement expert Leonard Allen has been named dean of Lipscomb University’s College of Bible and Ministry, which includes undergraduate Bible studies as well as the Hazelip School of Theology, accredited by the Association of Theological Schools. Holly Allen, nationally known intergenerational specialist and children’s ministry expert, has been appointed to a dual professorship in the university’s College of Arts and Sciences, in the university’s family life programs, and in the College of Bible and Ministry.
“I eagerly anticipate the way Leonard and Holly will serve this university and how their expertise will help us connect our program to the Churches of Christ and our community as well as to strengthen family studies in this region,” said L. Randolph Lowry, president of Lipscomb University.
Leonard Allen brings to Lipscomb strong academic experience in teaching and writing. One of the nation’s leading experts on the history and thought of the Restoration Movement, Allen has written numerous books and articles on this era in Churches of Christ history. These writings are often used as resources for churches, faculty, students and schools of theology.
Allen is director of the Abilene Christian University Press and was on faculty at ACU for 15 years and later taught at Biola University and Fuller Theological Seminary. He holds a doctorate in the History of Christian Thought from the University of Iowa School of Religion. In addition to his academic and research expertise, Allen has also preached at congregations and spoken at numerous lectureships across the country.
“The study of Scripture and the spiritual formation of our students have been at the heart of a Lipscomb University education for more than 120 years,” said Bledsoe. “Dr. Leonard Allen brings a rich background in theological education, research and publishing which will encourage scholarship in the college. He also has deep roots in Churches of Christ and will help the university continue to connect to and serve these congregations as well as the broader Christian community in Nashville and across the country.”
Allen said he looks forward to joining the Lipscomb faculty in June.
“Lipscomb is a dynamic place, and I am honored and excited to be joining its team of leaders,” said Allen. “The College of Bible and Ministry has a strong faculty and a large and important role to play in preparing young men and women to be well-equipped Christian leaders in church and professional life. I have known a good number of the Bible faculty for years and have admired their work. It will be my great privilege to support and lead them as we envision our future together.”
Holly Allen has more than 25 years’ experience in educational psychology, intergenerational Christian formation, and children’s and family studies. She is director of the Child and Family Studies Program and is professor of Christian ministries at John Brown University in Siloam Springs, Ark.
“Dr. Allen brings special expertise and national recognition that will add a new dimension to our family relations program with a focus on children’s studies and to our theological program in children’s ministry among other areas,” said Bledsoe.”
Allen is published widely and is a highly sought after speaker at academic conferences and in faith settings. Her current research focus is spiritual development in children, and she is writing a book tentatively titled “Nurturing Spiritual Formation in Children.” Allen frequently speaks to parents, educators and churches on spiritual development across the generations. Her publications and research are being used in courses in over a dozen universities and seminaries. She holds a doctorate from Talbot Theological School. She is a member of the board for the Society for Children’s Spirituality and Gen-On Ministries among other professional activities.
“Leonard and I have been drawn to Lipscomb for years, always relishing our time at Celebration and the Christian Scholars’ Conference,” she said. “I am pleased and honored to be joining the faculty, and I look forward to sharing the work God has been doing in me and through me with family studies and Christian ministry students at Lipscomb.””
Allen begins her appointment in August.