DEERFIELD, Ill., June 10, 2025 — Trinity International University (TIU) announced that Dr. David W. Pao, current dean of Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS), has been appointed interim president of the university, effective July 1, 2025.
The appointment follows the work of the TIU Presidential Search Committee, which had identified Dr. Pao as its top candidate after a thorough nationwide search. Dr. Pao, a New Testament scholar and long-serving leader at TEDS, was selected for his demonstrated evangelical theological convictions, institutional knowledge, and commitment to the mission of Trinity. At its February board meeting, the Board of Regents unanimously approved Dr. Pao to be the right person to lead TEDS forward, embracing his vision for the future of the seminary.
In a development running parallel to the presidential search, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS) and Trinity Western University (TWU) in Langley, British Columbia, announced on April 8 that TEDS would take steps toward becoming the seminary of TWU. The process of integration would culminate in December 2025, with TEDS welcoming its first class on TWU’s campus in Fall 2026.
In light of these developments, Dr. Pao will serve as interim president of TIU during the 2025–26 academic year to oversee the transition while continuing to serve as the dean of TEDS. He will then continue his leadership of TEDS at its new home under TWU.
“Dr. Pao represents the theological and academic strength that has long defined Trinity,” said Bill Reidel, Chair of the Presidential Search Committee. “His appointment ensures continuity of leadership and mission integrity during this pivotal year.”
Dr. Pao’s appointment fulfills accreditation standards while providing a steady hand during this historic moment for the university as TEDS looks forward to its next chapter.