Fuller Seminary Announces Digital Transformation Push With Leadership Changes

Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, one of the world’s largest nondenominational seminaries and a global ecclesial, evangelical, ecumenical, and egalitarian institution, has announced a major digital transformation by installing Dr. Ryan K. Bolger, currently interim Dean and Associate Professor of church in contemporary culture in the School of Mission and Theology, as head of the seminary’s integration of digital technologies.

Bolger, who earned both master’s and doctoral degrees from Fuller and teaches missiology, technological culture, spirituality, calling, intercultural engagement, and church strategy, will become Vice President of Digital Transformation and interim Chief Academic Officer effective March 31, the seminary said in a statement.

“Fuller Seminary was founded to be a flagship evangelical institution of higher Christian education,” President David Emmanuel Goatley said. “As we embrace a digital-forward vision, we are deeply committed to equipping leaders to bring Christ’s hope and healing to the church and the world.”

Alexis D. Abernethy, Chief Academic Officer and Professor of psychology in the School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy, will conclude her impactful four-year term on March 31, the seminary said.

“Abernethy’s gifted leadership as a scholar, administrator, and Christ-follower has been transformative for Fuller Seminary,” Goatley said of her tenure, which began in 2021.

Abernethy, who will begin a sabbatical leave from Spring 2025 through Summer 2026, guided the institution through COVID-19 recovery, nationwide racial and political polarization, and implementation of a new strategic plan.

Bolger brings significant technology sector experience to the new position. He has authored numerous book chapters and journal articles, including co-editing “Techno-Sapiens in a Networked Era: Becoming Digital Neighbors.”

Fuller, which launched its first fully online degree program more than two decades ago, now serves over 2,600 students globally through campuses in Pasadena, Houston, and Phoenix.

The institution offers master’s and doctoral degrees through its School of Mission and Theology and School of Psychology & Marriage and Family Therapy, along with on-demand non-degree courses through FULLER Equip, an initiative that offers non-degree courses, professional certificate programs, and training services.