Fuller Theological Seminary Announces Dr. Ryan Bolger as Interim Dean of the School of Mission and Theology

Fuller Theological Seminary is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Ryan Bolger as Interim Dean of the School of Mission and Theology. A distinguished member of Fuller’s faculty since 2002, Dr. Bolger brings extensive academic and administrative expertise to this pivotal role.

Dr. Bolger earned his BA from the University of California, Davis, and has since completed several advanced degrees at Fuller, including a MACCS, MAT, and PhD. His scholarly work primarily explores the interaction between the church and contemporary culture, with specialized teaching in missiology, technological culture, church and mission, church planting, and church renewal.

He is the co-author of Techno-Sapiens in a Networked Era: Becoming Digital Neighbors (2020), which he wrote with Associate Professor of Theology and Culture, Kutter Callaway. Dr. Bolger also edited Gospel after Christendom: New Voices, New Cultures, New Expressions (2012), a seminal work that brought together 28 innovative thinkers to discuss the establishment of new church communities in a post-Christendom West.

Dr. Bolger’s other notable publications include Emerging Churches: Creating Christian Communities in Postmodern Cultures (2005) with Dr. Eddie Gibbs, and contributions to books such as Phyllis Tickle: Evangelist of the Future (2013), Mass Culture (2008), Worship That Changes Lives (2008), and An Emergent Manifesto of Hope (2008). His academic excellence has been recognized with awards from Duke Divinity School and Yale University for his contributions to pastoral leadership and teaching on American culture and the gospel.

As a seasoned educator, Dr. Bolger is committed to mentoring PhD, DMin, and DMiss doctoral students, focusing on the interplay between contemporary culture and the church. His leadership was instrumental in creating Fuller’s first online degree program over two decades ago, a pioneering initiative in theological education.

“We thank God for the scholarship and leadership that Professor Bolger has provided Fuller over time and rejoice that he has accepted this call to serve as Interim Dean,” said Fuller President David Emmanuel Goatley. “His foundational role in our digital learning programs will undoubtedly enhance our operational excellence as we continue to expand our online offerings.”

Dr. Bolger succeeds Dr. Sebastian Kim, as Interim Dean. Dr. Alexis Abernethy, Chief Academic Officer notes, “Professor Kim has invested his time and talent generously during this year of his leadership of the School of Mission and Theology. His deep wisdom and hard work have contributed to the wellbeing of the Seminary in a season of transition and positioned us well for what is ahead.” Kim continues service to Fuller as Academic Dean for the Korean Studies Center, and Robert Wiley Professor of Renewal in Public Life. He completes his term as Interim Dean June 30, 2024.