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MILLIGAN UNIVERSITY, Tenn. (Aug 17, 2022) — Dr. Ron Kastens has been selected to become the next Academic Dean of Emmanuel Christian Seminary at Milligan effective September 1, 2023.
Kasten’s appointment comes as the current Academic Dean, Dr. Rollin Ramsaran, prepares to return to the classroom full-time. Ramsaran previously served as Emmanuel’s Dean from 2008 to 2010 and returned to that role in 2014, just prior to the seminary becoming part of Milligan’s School of Bible and Ministry in 2015.
“Rollin deftly helped guide the Seminary faculty prior to the Seminary becoming part of Milligan University with his personal warmth, diligent work ethic and calming presence,” said Dr. Garland Young, Milligan’s vice president for academic affairs. “He has remained a strong advocate for the Seminary’s faculty and curriculum throughout his time in the Seminary Dean’s position, and Emmanuel is much stronger and focused on our mission thanks to his dedication.”
Kastens graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Bible from Milligan in 1989. He went on to earn a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Massachusetts. After serving in two local churches for nearly 30 years, Kastens returned to Milligan in August 2018 to lead Milligan’s new Ministry Leadership Program (MLP) which is designed to prepare its students for future careers in ministry by incorporating academic theological training with practical ministry experience.
“Kastens possesses a thoroughly collaborative leadership style and, in his current role, has forged strong relationships with students and faculty as well as with our alumni serving in ministry and with our church partners,” said Milligan President Dr. Bill Greer. “His approach to people fosters trust and positivity, and I am confident he will bring all of these vital gifts to his work at the Seminary.”
Following 12 years as associate pastor at Northeast Christian Church in Louisville, Kentucky, Kastens became lead pastor of Crossway Christian Church in Nashua, New Hampshire, in 2001, where he oversaw the congregation’s growth from 300 to 850, as well as the physical expansion of the church and addition of two off-site campus locations.
“Emmanuel has a long tradition of preparing women and men for ministry and I am excited about building upon that,” said Kastens. “For over 30 years, I’ve had a passion for the church and for education, and I look forward to serving each to the blessing of the other.”
Kastens’ appointment as Seminary Dean will become effective on September 1, 2023, with the beginning of the 2023-24 academic year, at which time Ramsaran will return to full-time faculty. During the 2022-23 academic year, Kastens will serve as both MLP Director and Seminary Dean-Elect. Kastens and Ramsaran will work collaboratively to help ensure a seamless leadership transition.
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