RICHMOND, Va. (Union Seminary communications) Kenneth J. McFayden, a widely recognized expert in leadership and change, has been appointed the next academic dean of the Richmond campus of Union Presbyterian Seminary.
McFayden begins his new position July 1. He will succeed F. S. Royster Professor of Christian Missions Stanley H. Skreslet, who is returning to the faculty.
“Dr. McFayden is a superb administrator and is excellent in the areas of strategic visioning and planning,” said President Brian K. Blount. “Upon my arrival at Union in 2007, his expertise in strategic thinking was of invaluable support and I look forward to seeing him put these skills to work through the administrative endeavors he will lead as dean.”
McFayden currently serves as dean of the seminary’s Leadership Institute and Professor of Ministry and Leadership Development, and teaches courses in the areas of congregational leadership and administration.
“I am deeply honored by the appointment to serve as academic dean,” said McFayden. “This is a critical time in the life of the church, and therefore in the life of the seminary as we serve the church. I am looking forward to working with our faculty, staff, students, and trustees in this new capacity as our seminary continues to equip Christian leaders for ministry in a rapidly changing world.”
McFayden has provided leadership for international travel seminars to Brazil, Ghana, Korea, and China; served as keynote speaker on the topic of leadership and change in a variety of settings; and conducted numerous workshops and consultations for clergy and lay professionals in the theory and practice of leadership, team development, strategic planning, and conflict management.
Prior to joining the faculty in 2000, he was executive director of North Central Career Development Center in New Brighton, MN; a hospital chaplain in Louisville, KY; and an associate pastor in Alliance, OH. He is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
