President Viera Elected as President of the ATS Board of Directors

On Wednesday, June 25, the Reverend Dr. Javier A. Viera was elected as President of the Board of Directors for the Association of Theological Schools (ATS). The election reflects Dr. Viera’s ongoing service to the broader work of theological education. Alongside his leadership of Garrett Seminary, has has served as Vice President of the ATS Board since 2024, helping to shape the future of graduate theological education through the association’s governance and strategic leadership. “Theological schools are among the greatest gifts the Church has offered the world. They strengthen faith, cultivate wisdom, form courageous leaders, and equip communities to respond faithfully to the challenges of our time,” President Viera reflected. “I’m honored to serve in this role alongside remarkable board members, as together we work with institutions across Canada and the United States to imagine a more vibrant future for theological education.”

ATS provides its more than 280 member institutions with programs, services, research, and resources to support administrations and faculties, strengthening the field of theological education and offering best practices to improve student experiences and educational outcomes. In his work at Garrett, President Viera has dramatically expanded access and affordability for its degree programs, increasing enrollment and empowering more communities to benefit from trained clergy and other public servants. “I am delighted to congratulate Dr. Javier A. Viera on his election as ATS Board President. Having faithfully served as vice president, Javier brings a deep understanding of our mission, along with visionary leadership, a global perspective, and a proven commitment to strengthening theological education,” said ATS Executive Director, the Reverend Dr. Frank Yamada. “We look forward to his leadership in this new and well-deserved role.”

This election comes at a time of pivotal change across not just theological schools but throughout the entire field of higher education. “ITheological education exists to serve the church and the world,” said President Viera. “At a time when our communities are marked by polarization, loneliness, and declining trust, our task is not simply to prepare ministers, but to form leaders who can restore community, cultivate hope, and bear witness to God’s reconciling work. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve ATS because its member schools share that vital calling.” Amid widespread polarization, wise leaders can nurture mutual understanding. In an epidemic of loneliness and alienation, they can sow connection. Against growing cynicism and despair, they can bear hope.

At Garrett Seminary, we often speak of our commitment to the thriving of the church and the healing of the world. We also know that this calling cannot be fulfilled by any one institution alone. It requires theological schools that learn from one another, share wisdom generously, and work together to prepare leaders for a rapidly changing world. That collaborative vision lies at the heart of the Association of Theological Schools. Dr. Viera’s service on its Board reflects Garrett’s longstanding commitment not only to strengthening our own seminary, but also to advancing the broader ecosystem of theological education so that the church and the communities it serves may flourish.