A Note from Dr. Jim Smith, Chair of Asbury Board

MEMO
To: Asbury Seminary community: Students, Faculty, Staff and Administration
From: Dr. Jim Smith
Date: October 11, 2006

In light of upcoming events, I want to share some thoughts with you during these difficult times.

First, it is important that you know the Board of Trustees is committed to a fair, due process for our president. I have chosen not to get drawn into a public debate on a confidential personnel matter. While others have discussed their perceptions of these matters, this type of discourse is simply inappropriate for board members to engage in. We respect our students, staff, faculty and administration too much to discuss the personnel matters of the president or anyone in a public forum.

Please understand the board does value the concerns and thoughts within our community. However, we want to find productive ways to engage in conversation so we can both listen and respond constructively. In the days ahead we will try to find ways for renewed dialogue that moves the seminary forward. We will be seeking further dialogue with faculty and staff as we seek to work together with our community to further the growth and vision of the seminary.

Your continued prayers are appreciated in the days and weeks ahead for Asbury Seminary as the board seeks to respond with wisdom and integrity. Personnel discussions are seldom easy, and wise discernment is critical as the board seeks to make appropriate decisions.

The board and our leadership team remain focused on continuing the vital work of Asbury Seminary. We are committed to fulfilling our mission and purpose of training men and women in service to Jesus Christ. We are indeed experiencing a difficult time, however, we should not let this deter us from being committed to doing Kingdom work with God’s purpose in mind.

We continue to seek your prayers as we move forward in the days and months ahead. I will continue to share information with you as it is appropriate to do so. I thank you for your patience during this process and your commitment to Asbury Seminary.