Seminary Trustees Choose New Leader to Guide Next Generation of Pastors

Faith Facts

• Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary trustees unanimously elected Scott Pace as the institution’s next president
• Pace will succeed Daniel Akin, who served as president for over two decades
• The new president emphasized his commitment to faithful stewardship of the seminary’s mission by God’s grace

The Board of Trustees at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina, has unanimously selected Scott Pace to lead the institution as its next president. The decision marks a significant transition for one of the Southern Baptist Convention’s premier seminaries, which has been instrumental in training pastors and ministry leaders across America.

Pace will assume leadership responsibilities from Daniel Akin, a respected figure within Southern Baptist circles who has guided the seminary for more than twenty years. Under Akin’s tenure, the institution has grown in both enrollment and influence, maintaining its commitment to biblical orthodoxy and evangelical mission.

The unanimous vote reflects the board’s confidence in Pace’s ability to continue the seminary’s tradition of preparing faithful ministers of the Gospel. Seminary trustees emphasized the importance of maintaining doctrinal integrity while equipping the next generation of church leaders to address contemporary challenges facing American Christians.

In accepting the position, Pace acknowledged the weight of responsibility that comes with leading a theological institution during turbulent times for religious liberty and traditional values in America. He expressed his reliance on divine guidance in stewarding the seminary’s mission and resources.

“By God’s grace,” Pace stated, framing his approach to leadership through the lens of faithful stewardship rather than personal ambition. This perspective aligns with the seminary’s long-standing emphasis on servant leadership and biblical faithfulness.

The transition comes at a critical moment for Christian higher education, as seminaries navigate cultural pressures while remaining true to Scripture and historic Christian teaching. Southeastern Seminary has maintained a strong reputation for theological conservatism and evangelical conviction, producing graduates who serve in churches throughout the nation.

The selection process involved extensive prayer, deliberation, and evaluation of candidates committed to the seminary’s mission and the broader work of preparing ministers who will faithfully preach the Word and shepherd God’s people. Board members expressed confidence that Pace possesses both the theological grounding and administrative capability necessary for this season of leadership.

Daniel Akin’s legacy includes significant institutional growth, expanded global missions partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to biblical authority. His successor inherits a strong foundation upon which to build as the seminary continues training pastors who will proclaim truth in an increasingly secular culture.

The seminary community has responded with enthusiasm to the selection, recognizing the importance of continuity in mission while embracing fresh vision for reaching the next generation of ministry leaders. Faculty and students alike have expressed support for the transition and confidence in the direction ahead.

As Southeastern Seminary prepares for this leadership transition, the focus remains on its core calling: equipping men and women for faithful gospel ministry. The unanimous trustee vote signals institutional unity and shared commitment to that mission in the years to come.

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