Presidential Search
Dear Trinity Community,
As you know, the past year has brought with it major conversations about the future of both Trinity International University (TIU) and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS). Two processes—both vital—have been moving forward in parallel.
First, our presidential search committee has spent months prayerfully and thoroughly seeking the next leader of TIU. Their process was rooted in our mission and vision for the future of Christ-centered higher education. After a thorough search with well-qualified candidates, they unanimously and enthusiastically recommended Dr. David W. Pao, current dean of TEDS, as their candidate for TIU’s next president. His commitment to the authority of the inerrant Word, his academic leadership, and his long service to Trinity made him a clear and compelling choice. The Board of Regents approved the recommendation, eager to see Dr. Pao’s vision for TEDS come to fruition.
Meanwhile, conversations between TEDS and Trinity Western University (TWU) in British Columbia reached a turning point. As announced on April 8, TEDS has entered into a formal, exclusive commitment to move toward becoming the seminary of TWU, a move that aligns with both institutions’ theological commitments and global mission. If you haven’t already, you can read more about that here.
Because of this new reality, the nature of the presidential appointment has shifted. Dr. Pao has agreed to serve as interim president of TIU, beginning July 1, 2025, guiding us through this year of transition while continuing to serve as dean. Once that process concludes, he will continue serving as dean of TEDS at TWU. His leadership will ensure a smooth, mission-focused path forward.
TIU’s accreditation requires us to have a sitting president during this period. Dr. Pao’s appointment allows for continuity, credibility, and care as we honor our past and navigate toward a faithful future.
We remain grateful for your prayers and partnership. There is more to come, and we look forward to walking this journey together.
With great hope,
Bill Riedel
Chair, Presidential Search Committee
Chair, EFCA Board of Directors
Search Process and Timeline
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April 1, 2024
Kevin Kompelien named 17th President of Trinity International University with plans for him to serve until his retirement in the middle of 2025 -
June–July 2024
Developing the Presidential Profile- Presidential Search Committee appointed and begins to meet
- Soliciting Community Input
- Finalize Presidential Profile and Job Description
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August–October 2024
Seeking Candidates- Advertise Position
- Solicit Nominations
- Search Firm Outreach
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November 2024–January 2025
Reviewing Applicants- Committee Assesses Applicants
- Committee Identifies Likely Candidates
- Confidential Screening Interviews
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February–June 2025
Selecting TIU’s 18th President- Board Conducts Due Diligence
- TIU Board of Regents Votes to Appoint Next President
- Broadcast Announcement of TIU’s Next President
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July 1, 2025
Start of Interm President’s Tenure
Presidential Search Committee
The national search for TIU’s 18th president is being led by a search committee, which is tasked with recruiting, screening, and engaging prospective candidates. At the June 7 meeting of the TIU Board of Regents, Trustees approved procedures for the selection of a president, including an expansion of the search committee to ensure representation from TEDS faculty.
Bill Riedel, member of the TIU Board of Regents and lead pastor of Redemption Hill Church in Washington, D.C., will lead the presidential search effort. Other members of the search committee representing board members and faculty are: