It’s hard to believe that six months ago President Cook announced his plans to retire from Biola University.  Far from being a “lame duck” president, Dr. Cook has been leading the way as the University continues to build for the future with ambitious construction projects and innovative academic programs.  Meanwhile, the process of identifying his successor is in full swing.

The Presidential Search Team (PST), the committee entrusted with the task of presenting a presidential candidate to the Biola Board of Trustees at the appropriate time, has been meeting regularly.  Likewise, the Search Advisory Committee (SAC), the non-voting advisory group comprised of faculty, staff, and representatives from student and alumni groups, has been gathering together so they can provide the best advice possible to the search process.

And just what goes on in these committee meetings?  At the top of the list is prayer.  From the beginning of this important process, both committees and the entire Biola community have been praying for God’s direction and wisdom.  And God has been faithful to keep the process on track and focused on the main goal:  to bring His person into the position of Biola’s eighth president.

The other major task for the PST has been to receive nominations, which have been coming from a wide variety of sources.  Since the 24-page Opportunity Profile was mailed and distributed in October to more than 2,000 people across the country, including the leaders of all Christian colleges and universities as well as every major Christian ministry, the Presidential Search Team has received dozens of nominations and candidates. 

Rob Stevenson and Tommy Thomas, two partners in the executive search firm People Management, which Biola has retained to assist in the search, have been working with the PST to receive and review these nominations.  Their experience with more than 200 cabinet level searches and 12 successful searches for Christian college and university presidents has been invaluable.

Anyone can submit a nomination.  Those who want to nominate someone, or anyone who desires to be a candidate, are encouraged to read the Opportunity Profile.  Nominations may be submitted through the end of the year.