Why is Union conducting a presidential search now?
Union is embarking on a presidential search to identify a leader who will guide the Seminary into its next chapter of excellence, equity, and impact—building on our legacy and advancing our mission in a rapidly changing world. With our community’s continued engagement, we will find a President who carries forward Union’s mission of theological imagination, interreligious engagement, faith in the public square, justice, and academic excellence into its next era.
Who is leading the search process?
The search is being overseen by a diverse Search Committee representing students, staff, faculty, alumni, and trustees. The Committee is partnering with the global executive search firm Spencer Stuart to conduct the search with rigor, transparency, and inclusivity. See the section on the Search Committee for more information.
How is the Union community being involved?
Community engagement is a foundational component of this search. In September, listening sessions were held to gather wide-ranging input from students, staff, faculty, and trustees. Following those sessions, a stakeholder survey was administered to further solicit community views on the qualities and priorities for our next President.
How can I submit an application?
If you wish to confidentially submit application materials, please email: [email protected]. All submissions will be handled with care and confidentiality.
What qualities and experiences is the Search Committee looking for in the next President?
The ideal candidate will be a visionary and collaborative leader who demonstrates a deep commitment to theological education, social justice, interreligious engagement and academic excellence. The Search Committee will weigh input from the community and align candidate profiles with Union’s mission and core values. See the presidential prospectus for more information.
What are the key phases of the search process?
Key phases of the search process include: community input and development of the presidential profile; candidate identification and outreach; review and interviews of candidates; selection of finalists; reference and background checks; Board approval; and announcement of the next President. The process is expected to culminate in the Spring of 2026. See the search process and timeline section for more information.
Will candidate information be shared with the Union community?
To honor the confidentiality of all applicants and ensure a fair and equitable search process, the Presidential Search Committee will not be sharing individual candidate information with the Union community. Confidentiality allows the committee to attract the most qualified and diverse pool of candidates—many of whom are sitting leaders at other institutions—and to conduct the process with integrity and respect for all involved.
How will updates be shared with the Union community?
Updates on the search process will be posted on Union’s website, communicated via email to the community, and shared through other official channels to ensure transparency and ongoing engagement.
Who may I contact with further questions?
For additional questions about the presidential search, please contact the search team via email at [email protected]