LCU announces search for new president

[October 16, 2013]  Dr. Keith H. Ray, president of Lincoln Christian University, announced in a letter to the board of trustees his intent to retire from higher education in May 2014. While he will continue his work as LCU president through the end of May, steps are in motion to begin the search for his successor.

In his letter, Ray wrote: "My love for Christ's mission, the role of education, and the potential of students has fueled my ministry these many years. However, the time has come to announce my retirement from higher education at LCU."

Ray further explained: "This comes after a long period of soul searching, prayer, and listening to the wise counsel of a few friends. I have been blessed to work alongside extraordinary servants of God throughout my tenure. The friendships and professional relationships developed over these many years have become a treasure to me."

In a timely communication to employees, Dr. Gene Harker, chair of the board of trustees, announced that "the search for his successor is already up and running."

The board of trustees will serve as the search team, taking the following steps over the next several days:

• Building an advisory team.

• Identifying executive search organizations.

• Putting together an analysis of the schools.

• Developing a candidate profile.

Any search comments or questions may be directed to Harker at [e-mail]. For frequent updates, follow the search on Twitter: @LCUsearch.

In a letter to the LCU community about Ray's announcement, Harker said: "We are grateful for his 16 years of exemplary service to LCU. He has faithfully honored God in his efforts and consistently worked to advance the Kingdom in his relentless pursuit of excellence."

Keith H. Ray, D.Min, is a graduate of Lincoln Community High School, Lincoln Christian University's School of Undergraduate Studies and Seminary. He began his administrative career in higher education as dean of students at Dallas Christian College in 1990 and later served there as president for four years. On July 1, 1998, he moved back to Lincoln to begin his presidency at LCU. When he retires in May, he will have completed 16 years as president at Lincoln Christian University.

In his time as LCU president, Dr. Ray has been at the helm for these milestones:

• Renaming the institution Lincoln Christian University in 2009.

• Establishing the Hargrove School of Adult & Graduate Studies, which began as the LincUp program in 2005.

• Creating the China Institute to handle all things Chinese.

• Navigating the 2008 U.S. economic recession.

• Receiving recognition by the Chronicle for Higher Education in 2010 and 2013 as a "Great College to Work For."

• Receiving recognition in 2009 and 2011 as a "Best Christian Workplace."

• Reducing operational debt by more than 50 percent, increasing gift income by 85 percent and almost tripling LCU's endowment.

• Leading the largest campus renovation and expansion in the school's history, adding a new maintenance facility, athletic center and women's residence hall.

• Calling LCU's first international and minority faculty members, first female dean, and first female administrator.

• Expanding degree offering to five extension sites in three states.

• Reaffirming accreditation from HLC, ATS and ABHE.

• Receiving the 2006-07 Enrollment Growth Award from Christianity Today.

• Initiating affiliate membership with the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities.

Ray will be moving to St. Louis to begin a new career in senior health care. On July 1, 2014, he will join the senior vice president team with Christian Homes Inc. His role will be in leadership development and external relations.

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Established in Lincoln in 1944, LCU has as its mission to equip Christians to serve and lead in the church, the workplace and the world. In its 70-year history, Lincoln Christian alumni have gone on to serve in every one of the 50 states and in more than 160 countries worldwide. Today, LCU offers a variety of degree programs for undergraduates, graduates and seminary students. Classes are offered on campus, at four extension sites in three states and online around the world. To learn more, visit www.lincolnchristian.edu.

[Text from file received from Lincoln Christian University]