James Pankratz named academic dean at MBBS

FRESNO, CALIF.

"Jim brings enormous strength to the seminary," said President Henry Schmidt. "The kind of depth, trust and stature he brings as a leader, with experience in administration and scholarship, couldn't have come at a better time.

"He will provide the academic leadership MBBS needs in terms of faculty and curriculum development, anchoring the reaccreditation self-study process and strengthening the B.C. Centre," Schmidt said.

Pankratz follows Pierre Gilbert, who served as dean for the 1997-98 school year and resigned to return to teaching Old Testament full-time.

Pankratz was president of Concord College 1988-97, having joined the faculty in 1985. He is currently on study leave from Concord. He served with Mennonite Central Committee in South Asia and Bangladesh 1982-85. He was academic dean at Concord (MB Bible College) 1978-82, dean of students 1976-78 and an assistant professor 1975-82.

Pankratz received his Ph.D. from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ont. in 1975. His research focussed on the interaction between Christians and Hindus. Later, his primary areas of teaching included world religions, religion and culture, Christian worship and the history of Christianity in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Schmidt said Pankratz will continue to teach at MBBS in the areas of world religions and missions.

"We're very grateful for the generous welcome we received from the seminary community," Pankratz said. "It's a privilege to work with these gifted and visionary colleagues and students. The challenges of MBBS are the challenges of the global church. I eagerly anticipate working collaboratively in global partnerships to help the Church fulfill its mission in the world."

"During the past month of conversation with Jim, there has been an overwhelming sense on all levels that God's timing has been at work in the match between his gifts, preparation and interests and the needs at MBBS," Schmidt said.

Schmidt also expressed his personal excitement about Pankratz's appointment, saying, "his gifts, education experience and leadership depth complement my own gifts. He brings strength where both the institution and I personally need it at this point. We praise God for His timing and leading."

Pankratz and his wife Goldine, a registered nurse, are natives of Ontario. They have two grown daughters, Carmen and Rachel.

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