Cogdill, who was chair of Campbell's undergraduate religion department before being appointed as founding dean of the new venture, has been living and breathing Campbell divinity for 14 years. He's driven uncounted miles, spoken in scores of churches, attended hundreds of meetings, and asked thousands of people to pray for the school, send their students, and maybe even throw in some money.As we know by now, Cogdill's efforts have not been in vain. Under his good leadership, the school opened in 1996, a year earlier than planned. It grew steadily, and has become one of the largest and healthiest of the "new breed" of Baptist divinity schools formed during the past 20 years. For the past several years, enrollment has averaged around 240 students. The divinity school's endowment, mostly in the form of more than 300 endowed scholarships, is the largest of Campbell's six graduate schools. CUDS has strong partnerships with a variety of Baptist groups, innovative programs, and students from across the Christian spectrum.
The past few years have been particularly eventful, as Cogdill led the faculty and staff through the process of full accreditation by the Association of Theological Schools (granted, with flying colors, in June 2007), and played a significant role in helping to set the course and raise the money for the university's new Butler Chapel, just dedicated in October.
It's no wonder he's ready for a break. In an email to students, Cogdill said his work as dean has been a dream come true. He told the faculty that he has contemplated the change for some time, and believes it is the right time for a transition. In a prepared statement, he said "It is now time in my life to give thanks for this wonderful chapter of ministry and to embrace the new opportunities for the future. I look forward to continuing to help the Divinity School prosper and grow as a full-time member of the faculty.”
I'm one of many who want to join in voicing our thanks for this "wonderful chapter of ministry" in Mike Cogdill's life, and for the many students, faculty, staff, and others who have been touched -- and will continue to be touched -- by his whole-hearted commitment to "Christ-centered, Bible-based, and ministry-focused" leadership.
2 comments:
Few equal Dean Cogdill's passion and commitment for sound theological education. While he may be removed from the office of Dean, his influence over countless ministers and churches will last forever.
Having completed my undergraduate degree at Campbell with Dr. Cogdill at the helm of the Religion department, I came to admire a remarkable servant. Adding to my pleasure was to complete my graduate studies, again with him at the helm, but this time as Dean of the Divinity School. Many, many fond memories of those years but one sermon he preached stands out among so many. Because of his influence and this sermon, I know he is among those who will stand before God and hear the words "Well done, thy good and faithful servant". The day he made the announcement will NOT be a "high and holy day" for Campbell Divinity School, but it was a "high and holy day" when Mike Cogdill became my friend.
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