Stephen Ray has informed the Chicago Theological Seminary Board of Directors of his decision to retire as president. The entire CTS community regrets to see his day-to-day leadership of the organization end, but is grateful for the impact he has had.
“While a difficult decision, my heart and my life tell me it is time,” said Stephen. “I will be forever grateful to all the people I have worked side-by-side with over the years. Through the difficulties of the pandemic and other challenges, I am proud of the strong position CTS holds today. We are well-positioned to meet our responsibility: to equip religious leaders of good faith to promote justice and mercy throughout our society. The need has never been greater, and CTS will be there, as we always have.”
Stephen led CTS through a challenging pandemic, all while achieving record enrollment in the school. He led a needed reorganization process and instituted pragmatic operating budget that can keep pace with an acceptable draw from the CTS endowment. He also significantly expanded the Seminary’s Interfaith efforts with the formal establishment of a partnership with Bayan Islamic Graduate School, among many other accomplishments.
Stephen will step down officially on August 31st. Well known to CTS, Rev. Dr. Marsha Foster Boyd has agreed to serve as interim president while CTS begins an extensive search for Stephen’s replacement.
A virtual celebratory event is scheduled for August 30 at 7:30 p.m. CT. Mark your calendars!
Full press release available here.
