Western Theological Seminary Welcomes Dr. Keith Starkenburg as Academic Dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs

Western Theological Seminary leadership is delighted to share that Dr. Keith Starkenburg has been appointed as the new Academic Dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs. After serving faithfully as Interim Dean, Keith now steps into this role with a deep sense of calling and a heart for Western’s mission of forming women and men for faithful Christian leadership.

Drawing on years of experience as a professor, department chair, and associate dean, he brings both academic depth and a gracious, relational approach to guiding faculty and students alike. 

President Felix Theonugraha shares, “Keith Starkenburg is a deeply respected and thoughtful leader whose rich experience in both the classroom and higher education administration uniquely equips him for this role. As an ordained minister and proud graduate of the Seminary, Keith embodies our mission, honors our history, and champions our values with conviction and joy. His unwavering commitment to whole-person formation in theological education and ministry preparation reflects the very heart of who we are. I am thrilled to welcome Keith fully into this role and eagerly anticipate the wisdom and vitality he will bring to this next season of the Seminary’s life.”

This new appointment isn’t just a continuation of his work; it’s a calling. Throughout his time at WTS, Keith has been shaped by the seminary’s commitment to forming women and men for faithful ministry and life within God’s redemptive world. “At Western,” Keith reflects, “our decisions at every level, from the classroom to the boardroom, should support the intellectual, spiritual, and emotional formation of people before the triune God.”

During his time as Interim Dean, Keith helped strengthen a spirit of collaboration across the seminary, nurtured vibrant faculty culture, and built stronger relationships with partner organizations. He describes his approach as “rooted innovation”, creative leadership grounded in Western’s Reformed and ecumenical identity.

“Western is at its best when our intellectual and spiritual life flow together in service to Christ and the church,” Keith reflects.

The WTS community celebrates Keith’s appointment with gratitude and joy. We invite our alumni and friends to join us in praying for him as he continues to lead Western’s academic life with wisdom, humility, and hope.