Comprehensive Strategic Plan 2018 - 2022 - The Bible Seminary
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Comprehensive Strategic Plan 2018 - 2022 1 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
2 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................... 4 Purpose ........................................................................................................................................................ 4 Core Values .................................................................................................................................................. 4 Institutional Objectives ................................................................................................................................ 5 Philosophy of Education .............................................................................................................................. 5 Doctrines ...................................................................................................................................................... 6 Ethos ............................................................................................................................................................ 8 Facts ............................................................................................................................................................. 9 History ........................................................................................................................................................ 10 Planning Process, Design, and Utilization ...................................................................................................... 12 Planning Process ........................................................................................................................................ 12 Design......................................................................................................................................................... 13 Utilization ................................................................................................................................................... 13 Plan Components ........................................................................................................................................... 14 Educational Programs ................................................................................................................................ 14 Enrollment ................................................................................................................................................. 18 Staffing ....................................................................................................................................................... 19 Finances ..................................................................................................................................................... 20 Facilities ..................................................................................................................................................... 21 Policies and Procedures ............................................................................................................................. 22 Accreditation.............................................................................................................................................. 23 Alumni ........................................................................................................................................................ 24 Communications and Marketing................................................................................................................ 25 Note: For additional information, consider the TBS handbooks as companion documents to this Strategic Plan. 3 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
INTRODUCTION The Bible Seminary (TBS) is an independent, non-denominational, 501(c)(3) charitable institution of higher education incorporated in Texas in 2010 to offer training for laity and vocational ministry professionals. Programs include Bible Certificate and Licensed Professional non-degree programs, and Dual Degree Completion, Master of Arts, and Master of Divinity degree programs. Purpose The Bible Seminary exists to glorify God by training Christian believers in a context of biblical community in all 66 books of the Bible so that they can serve the local church and fulfill the Great Commission by the power of God’s Spirit. Core Values Key Verse "They read from the book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people could understand what was being read." Nehemiah 8:8 • Lordship – Because He is Lord (Philippians 2:11), we will continually ask Jesus Christ to sit on the throne of the seminary and on the throne of the lives of its faculty, administrators, and students for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). • Bible – Because the Bible is the fully true Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16), we will offer and require the study of all 66 books of the Bible before graduation with a degree. We will seek to creatively integrate classical theological disciplines and ministry training by studying books of the Bible (i.e. Church History will begin with the Book of Acts and keep going; Pastoral Leadership will come through the study of the Pastoral Epistles; Systematic Theology will flow out of the study of the Pauline Epistles) • Prayer – Because apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15:5), we will continually seek to plug into the Vine Jesus Christ through yielding to Him in prayer. We will offer a unique emphasis on prayer including classes on prayer, a school of prayer, prayer faculty, and multiple prayer opportunities in the life of the seminary. • Unreached Peoples – Because the return of Christ awaits the evangelization of all people groups (Matthew 24:14), we will keep our eyes on the unreached peoples of the world and train our students to have a heart for the fulfillment of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) by seeking to reach millions of souls for Jesus Christ. • Local Church – Because the local church is God’s plan (Matthew 16:18), we will be based in the local church and have a symbiotic relationship of service and training with local churches and parachurch ministries. • Community – Because we were created for community (Genesis 1:26; Romans 12:5), we will seek to build a campus-based fellowship where the “one anothers” of Scripture are lived out, where authenticity and accountability are practiced, and where integrity is modeled and taught. • Compassion – Because God has a huge heart for the poor and overlooked (Mt. 25:31-46), we will strive to motivate, equip, and train students to minister to “the least of these” as a lifestyle. 4 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Institutional Objectives The Bible Seminary strives to provide a learning environment, faculty, staff, and support services that enable students and graduates to: • Believe in Jesus Christ as LORD and trust Him on the throne of their lives for the glory of God. • Believe the BIBLE is the fully true Word of God, and have integrated the study of all 66 books of the Bible with studies in classical theological disciplines and ministry training prior to graduating with a degree. • Practice a life of PRAYER, continually seeking to plug into the Vine of Jesus Christ. • Have a heart for the UNREACHED PEOPLES of the world and the fulfillment of the Great Commission through seeking to reach millions of souls for Christ. • Have training and experience in the LOCAL CHURCH and have established key relationships with various local churches and parachurch ministries. • Have experience in ministry and study amidst a COMMUNITY committed to authenticity and accountability, and where integrity is modeled and taught. • Have COMPASSION for the poor and overlooked, and have received motivation, equipping, and training to minister to "the least of these" as a lifestyle. Philosophy of Education • We believe the Bible is one book, written by many authors over time, inspired by one Spirit for all time – and is the best training manual for ministry. • We believe that doing ministry, debriefing ministry, and studying ministry – in association with called, life-giving, seasoned and Spirit-filled professionals – is an effective educational model. • We believe a balanced, Bible-based, Christ-centered, mission-focused educational approach includes a comprehensive curriculum that integrates studying through all 66 biblical books along with studying standard historical, theological, and practical disciplines critical to developing professional skills for 21st century ministry. • We believe that challenging and nurturing students, getting them into the Word of God, and helping them think biblically and listen to the Holy Spirit, involves a unique combination of professional ministry training, cutting-edge tools, and extraordinary experiences. • We believe that face-to-face interaction over time, among groups of individuals with a common set of core values and doctrines and ethical standards, and with diverse backgrounds and experiences, can offer an exciting, family-friendly, practical, rich, and unparalleled learning environment. • We believe that a journey of theological education should: o Glorify the Lord o Be rooted in His Word o Nurture an intimate, faithful, trusting relationship with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit o Cultivate a contextual and increasingly more profound understanding of God and creation, scripture and the world, heaven and earth, culture and history, time and eternity, and things seen and unseen o Equip students with relevant experiences, knowledge, relationships, training, and tools for a lifetime of ministry leadership o Lead to a passionate commitment to love and serve the Lord and others with all that students are and have, in perpetuity. 5 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Doctrines • We believe in the inspiration and authority of Scripture – The Bible is the only inspired Word of God, fully true, and our sole authority for all that we believe and do (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Matthew 5:18). We hold to the inerrancy of Scripture, as outlined in the “Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy.” • We believe in one God – There is only one true God who exists eternally in three Persons: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit (Genesis 1:26; Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; John 14:9; Acts 5:3-4,9; 2 Corinthians 3:17; 13:14; Hebrews 1:1-3, I John 5:7). • We believe in the deity and humanity of Christ – Jesus Christ is Lord, being fully God and yet fully Man, born of a virgin, as affirmed in the Nicene, and Apostles’ Creeds (Matthew 1:18-23; Luke 1:26- 38; John 1:1-2,14; Philippians 2:5-8; Colossians 1:13-20; Hebrews 1:8). • We believe in substitutionary atonement – Jesus Christ died on the cross as our substitute – taking upon Himself the penalty of the sins of fallen humans (John 1:29; Romans 3:25-26; 5:8, 12-19; Galatians 3:13; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 3:18). • We believe in the resurrection of Christ – Jesus rose from the dead in a bodily resurrection defeating sin and death (Romans 6:4-9; 10:9; 1 Corinthians 15:3-6). • We believe in salvation by grace through faith alone – A person is saved from eternal separation from God as a free gift when that person places their faith in Jesus Christ who is the only way to the Father (John 1:12; 3:16; 5:24; 14:6; Acts 4:12; Romans 1:16-17; Ephesians 2:8-9; Revelation 21:27). • We believe in the Second Coming of Jesus Christ – Jesus Christ will come again to judge the living and the dead (Matthew 24-25; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Revelation 19-21). • We believe in heaven and hell – Believers in Jesus Christ will be resurrected to everlasting blessedness and joy in eternal fellowship with God (1 Corinthians 15:35-57; 2 Corinthians 5:1-9; Philippians 3:20-21; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17; Revelation 21:1-7; 22:1-5). Unbelievers will be resurrected to conscious separation from God and eternal punishment (Matthew 25:41,46; Mark 9:43-48; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; Revelation 14:9-11;20:10-15; 21:8). WHERE WE STAND ON SOME CONTROVERSIAL SOCIAL ISSUES We acknowledge that the following social issues have brought much pain and division in some churches, and we do not approach these issues lightly or glibly. But we also acknowledge that, at the heart, these are authority of Scripture issues. We believe the Bible is clear about the following: • Abortion – We believe human life inside a mother’s womb begins at conception and is a real human being created in the image of God (Psalm 139:13-16; Jeremiah 1:4-5; Luke 1:39-45) and, therefore, that abortion is murder and wrong/sin (Exodus 20:13). We believe God offers full forgiveness to an abortive mother/father who has turned to Jesus Christ (Colossians 2:13-15; Ephesians 1:7). • Celibacy, Marriage, and Sexuality – We believe God created humans in His image, intentionally and immutably male and female, each bringing unique and complementary qualities to sexuality and relationships (Genesis 1:27, 2:21-24, 3:16-20, 4:1; Matthew 19:4-5; Ephesians 5:22-33). Celibacy, marriage, and sexuality in general are gifts from God to be expressed: (1) within specific boundaries He designed for our safety and pleasure, and, (2) within the confines of His purposes, which include gratefully honoring the Lord with our bodies and minds (Proverbs 6:20-7:27; Matthew 6:27-30; Romans 12:1-2; I Corinthians 7:19-20; Ephesians 4:17-5:20; Philippians 1:20-2:16). Sexual acts within marriage are God’s solely ordained method for moral human procreation (Genesis 1:27-28, 2:18-24; Matthew 19:4-9; Mark 10:5-9; Ephesians 5:31). Sexual acts condemned in the Bible include but are not limited to adultery, bestiality, fornication, incest, lust, prostitution, same-sex sexual acts, sodomy, and voyeurism (Exodus 20:14; Leviticus 18:7-23, 20:10-21, 21:9; 6 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Deuteronomy 5:18; Matthew 5:27-28, 15:19; Romans 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9-13; Galatians 5:19; Ephesians 4:17-19; Colossians 3:5; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; Hebrews 13:4). Therefore, we believe variant sexual behaviors such as bi-sexuality, homosexuality, lesbianism, pedophilia, transgenderism, and transsexualism are sinful and defy God’s natural order, plans, and purposes (Leviticus 18:22; 20:13; Genesis 19; Jude 7; Romans 1:26-32; 1 Timothy 1:9-11; 1 Corinthians 6:9- 11). We do not believe in ordaining self-avowed practicers of any of these or any other sexual sins, and do not believe in ceremonies that celebrate same-sex unions (Romans 1:18-32). • Ministry Leadership – We believe persons engaged in willful, ongoing sinful practice(s) should not serve in ministry leadership (Romans 1:18-32; I Corinthians 5:1-13 and 6:9-20; I Thessalonians 4:1- 8; I Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9), and those already serving in leadership that engage in ongoing sinful behavior(s) should be disciplined and removed from leadership, at least for a season (Deuteronomy 17:1-7; I Samuel 15; 2 Samuel 11-12 and 24; Daniel 4; I Corinthians 5-6; Revelation 2-3). We believe true repentance and conversion are first steps toward salvation, and essential for engaging in the process of sanctification (I Corinthians 6:9-11; I Thessalonians 4:1-8). Therefore, anyone considering ministry leadership via a path that includes seeking a degree from and/or working for The Bible Seminary should evidence public and private freedom from sinful behavior(s) over time (Matthew 3:8; Acts 26:20; James 2:14-26), since ministry leadership is incorporated into official positions and roles at The Bible Seminary including administration, board, faculty, staff, and students. 7 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Ethos It is a high honor and privilege to represent God to people by being in the ministry and training for ministry. When people see someone “in the ministry,” they see that person as representing Christ’s church. It is for this reason that the Bible outlines in 1 Timothy 3 some of the expectations and qualifications of a leader in the church. It is very important for each member of the seminary community (no matter what their position) to seek to live up to these standards (with God’s help and empowerment). Thus, we ask each member of the seminary community to covenant to lead a life that is “above reproach” as defined by the following Ethos Statement. The heart of this document is healthy community full of grace and truth (John 1:17). As a member of the seminary community, I agree, with God’s help and empowerment, to live by the following ideals to the best of my ability: • I will seek to walk with God through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ (Genesis 5:22; John 17:3; Mark 12:29-31; Ephesians 2:8-9). • I will seek to have no other gods than Jesus Christ (Exodus 20:3-6; 1 Peter 3:15). I will seek to keep myself from idolatry (1 John 5:21) by not making idols out of money, sex, power, people, material things, school, or ministry success. • I will work as “unto the Lord” (Colossians 3:23-24). I will give God my best in my family, in my job performance and in my training for ministry. • I will refrain from sexual immorality (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5). If I am married, I will be faithful to my spouse (Exodus 20:14). If I am single, I will remain celibate in my singleness. I will not engage in homosexual practice (1 Corinthians 6:9-11). • I will refrain from drunkenness or the use of illegal drugs (Ephesians 5:18). I will not allow a substance to control me, rather I will seek to be controlled by God. If I choose to “drink socially,” I will do so in a way that does not cause other people to stumble (1 Corinthians 8). • I will practice Biblical conflict resolution. If someone hurts or offends me, I will go to that person and speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15,25) and forgive them (Ephesians 4:32). If this does not resolve the issue, I will then involve a second person as prescribed in Matthew 18:15-17. I will not slander another person by talking negatively about him/her without him/her present (Ephesians 4:31). I will seek to build others up with my words (Ephesians 4:29). If I cannot bring resolution through these steps, I will seek counsel. • I will be respectful of those in authority over me and submit to their leadership (Hebrews 13:17) unless they were to call me to do something contrary to Scripture (Acts 5:27-29). I will seek humbleness in my life (1 Peter 5:5-6). The purpose of this Ethos Statement is order (1 Corinthians 14:40) and to uphold integrity, respect, honor and character (2 Timothy 2:20-22). There is plenty of grace in this community for mistakes (James 5:16), whereas there is not room in this community for blatant and unrepentant rebellion (1 Corinthians 5). I agree to do my best to live by this Ethos Statement with God’s help and power through Jesus Christ and for His glory. 8 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Facts Incorporation and Licensing • Independent and non-denominational • Registered as Domestic Non-Profit Corporation in the state of Texas, Feb 2010 • Registered as IRS 501(c)(3) Charitable Institution of Higher Education, Aug 2010 • Exemption granted by Texas Workforce Commission, March 2011 • Exemption granted by Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, May 2011 • Affiliate Member of the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE), 2012 • Approved CEU provider by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), Oct 2015 • Approved by the Texas Veterans Commission, July 2017 • Approved for Applicant Status by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS), January 2018 Founders • Dr. James E. Leggett, Founding President (2010-13) • Rev. Paul Helbig, Bible Institute Co-founder and Lead Faculty (2008-16) • Mr. Dan Dunham, Founding Board of Trustees Chair (2010-13) • Grace Fellowship Church, Seed funding for launch (2010-11) Executive Officers • President – Dr. K. Lynn Lewis • Provost – Dr. Scott Stripling • Vice-President of Finance and Administration – Mr. Rick McCalip • Board of Trustees – Mrs. Heidi Arneson (Chair), 9 regional and national representative members Programs • Master of Divinity – 84-credit hours, first classes offered in Fall 2012, and first 7 graduates in 2015 • Master of Arts – Four majors ranging from 48 to 60-credit hours, added in 2015, first graduate in 2015 • Dual Degree Completion (Dual track to obtain both a Bachelor's and Master's degree) – Added in 2015 • Licensed Professional – 18-credit hours, added in 2015 • Bible Certificate – 10-credit hours, first 10 graduates in December 2012 Faculty • Two full-time administrators who also teach • One full-time faculty and 15+ adjunct professors • 50+ professionals who serve as mentors and visiting teachers Unique Features • All programs cover all 66 books of the Bible • Comprehensive, relevant education and training for 21st century ministry • Local church mentoring and training opportunities throughout the graduate degree programs • Educational experiences in classrooms, on-site visits to many regional locations and locations in Israel Special program elements • Distinctively clear doctrinal and ethos statements • Commitment to seven core values - Lordship of Christ, Bible as fully true Word of God, Prayer, Unreached Peoples, The Local Church, Community, and Compassion • Holy Land Study Tour opportunity • Technological ministry study and resource tools • Multiple experiential learning opportunities • Fundraising training • Strong commitment to helping students graduate with no seminary debt 9 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
History The passion for a vibrant Bible-based, Christ-centered, mission-focused training center for church laity and professional ministers began in the life and ministry of Dr. Jim Leggett, founder and senior pastor of Grace Fellowship United Methodist Church in Katy, Texas. Part of the church’s founding vision in 1996 included eventually creating a school offering seminary- level training to laity. Initially visualized as a “Growth Institute,” the idea evolved into a “Bible Institute” under the leadership of Grace Fellowship UMC Teaching Pastor, Paul Helbig – a former teacher and key leader at the College of Biblical Studies in Houston, Texas. The church officially established a Bible Institute in 2008 to teach a series of lay courses covering all 66 books of the Bible. Classes were designed to be highly engaging and transformative, a joy and not a burden, taught by seminary-trained, credentialed instructors, and more intensive than typical Bible studies, but not quite as intense as a full-level seminary class. The original Bible Institute courses included Bible Study Methods, three Old Testament and three New Testament classes, and one missions class. Each course was one semester in length, and students generally met one night per week throughout a semester. During the six-year span between the first class offered in the spring of 2008 and the spring of 2014, more than one thousand students enrolled in Bible Institute courses. The first twelve students to complete all eight courses finished the Bible Institute program track in December 2011. Also in 2008, several key Grace Fellowship UMC members began working diligently with Dr. Leggett and others to develop a graduate school as a separate, non-denominational, charitable, educational organization. The team selected a name – The Bible Seminary – and worked to establish bylaws, a Board of Trustees, core values, doctrines, ethos, financial support, incorporation in the state of Texas, institutional policies, and a program track for a three-year Master of Divinity degree aimed at attracting full-time, residential students. These tasks were completed or advanced significantly under the leadership of seminary Board Chair, Dan Dunham, and seminary Vice-President of Finance and Administration, Rick McCalip. In the fall of 2010, the new Board officially named Dr. Jim Leggett President of The Bible Seminary, and hosted a fundraiser targeted toward the Grace Fellowship UMC congregation. Ultimately, more than 260 church members and friends committed in excess of $1,100,000 to help launch the seminary. Shortly thereafter, the Board launched a nationwide search for an Executive Vice-President/Provost. Dr. K. Lynn Lewis – a dynamic professional with more than 25 years of experience as an entrepreneurial businessman, educator, fundraiser, and ministry leader – began serving TBS in July 2011. That same year, TBS received an exemption for its Master of Divinity program by the Texas Workforce Commission in March, received a similar exemption from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board in May, officially transferred the Bible Institute from Grace Fellowship UMC to The Bible Seminary in July, and began publicizing and recruiting students for a new, 32-course, 96-hour Master of Divinity graduate school program in the fall. The graduate program launched with 12 inaugural students the next fall on September 4, 2012. Faculty included Dr. Lewis, Professor Helbig, and select adjunct professors. TBS received approval for Affiliate status with the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE) in April 2012. As an Affiliate institution of ABHE, The Bible Seminary participates in and contributes to collegial and professional development activities of the Association. Affiliate status does not, however, constitute, imply, or presume ABHE accredited status at present or in the future. During the 2013-14 school year, the seminary offered an expanded slate of classes and options for both the Bible Certificate and Master of Divinity programs, as well as a Biblical Leadership Series of monthly seminars on various topics. Founding President, Dr. Jim Leggett, transitioned to a new role at the seminary in January 2014, and the Board of Trustees selected Dr. K. Lynn Lewis to serve as the new President. The seminary then launched a nationwide search for a new Provost (Chief Academic Officer), and in October 2014, Dr. Steve Adamson – a seasoned corporate and academic manager with worldwide experience – became the seminary’s new Provost. 10 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
In 2015, TBS formally established a Master of Arts program, and developed a dual degree completion option enabling those without a completed bachelor’s degree to enroll at TBS and graduate with both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. TBS awarded its first graduate degrees – including seven Master of Divinity and one Master of Arts – on May 17, 2015. TBS added an 8-10 course Licensed Professional program in September 2015, enabling those without a bachelor’s degree to obtain core TBS graduate level education. The Bible Certificate program added Spanish language classes in the fall, and received approval by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) in November 2015 to provide continuing education units for K-12 Christian education teachers. In 2016, the seminary began expanding course offerings into the northwest Houston region in association with churches and ministries in that area. By the end of the year, founding Professor Paul Helbig switched from full-time TBS employment to full-time disability leave due to complications from Multiple Sclerosis. In 2017, the seminary hired a new Provost with 36 years of experience serving professionally as a pastor, principal, superintendent, professor, Development Director, teacher, coach, archaeologist, and more – Dr. Scott Stripling. TBS also hired a new full-time faculty member with an extensive background worldwide in educational administration, research, and teaching – Dr. Douglas Petrovich. TBS also implemented major revisions to the Bible Certificate program, added the “Bible Panorama” Bible Certificate course and “Biblical Archaeology” graduate course, and added new teaching sites in southwest Houston and in Luling, Texas. In December, TBS received recognition by the Knowledge Review as one of the 10 Most Preferred Divinity Schools for Religious Studies 2017. In 2018, TBS approved graduate program academic revisions that included a reorganization and expansion of the Master of Arts programs to include four distinct majors with varying credit hours required for completion depending on the major: Master of Arts in Biblical History and Archaeology (MABHA), Master of Arts in Biblical Languages and Culture (MABLC), Master of Arts in Biblical Studies (MABS), and Master of Arts in Church History and Theology (MACHT). The seminary also reduced the required hours to complete a Master of Divinity (MDiv) from 96 to 84-credit hours, and increased the number of required Licensed Professional program courses from eight (8) to nine (9). The revisions included integrating “Bible Panorama” as a required foundational course into all TBS educational programs, and adding a capstone course to every graduate degree program schedule. TBS also hired a part-time Communications Director and is in the process of hiring another full-time faculty member. 11 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
PLANNING PROCESS, DESIGN, AND UTILIZATION Planning Process The Bible Seminary’s Comprehensive Strategic Plan (CSP) depicts a summary progression of ongoing planning, budgeting, engagement and governance processes. It ensures alignment of the institution’s Mission and Purpose, Overarching Objectives, Philosophy of Education, Core Values, Doctrines and Ethos with the near and medium term objectives, goals, budgets, and implementation timing. This alignment spans key areas of Educational Programs, Enrollment, Staffing, Finances, Facilities, Policies & Procedures, Accreditation, Alumni, and, Communications & Marketing, each of which are addressed directly in the CSP component sections. Beginning in the fall of 2010, an annual planning and budgeting process has been ongoing, involving both the Administration and the Board, the governance process of which is detailed in the TBS by-laws. Following the launch of the Master of Divinity program in September 2012, supplemental efforts to the annual planning process yielded Board commissioned subcommittees to address strategic areas and other urgent matters with focused, timely effort. In February 2014, at request of the Board Chair, the Board of Trustees convened for a weekend Board Strategy workshop with three distinct goals: 1. To understand at a deeper level the current state of TBS, including specific internal and external challenges to overcome, 2. To identify key priorities in 2014-2015 and longer term, and 3. To identify specific actions by Board and Administration in support of priorities. The workshop resulted in determining short-term priorities associated with fundraising, recruitment, volunteer utilization, and narrowed focus, as well as priority enablers such as enhanced marketing plans and pursuit of accreditation. The next formal meeting of the Board of Trustees resulted in the formation of a Strategic Plan Sub-committee to advance this work and integrate it with existing TBS planning and governance processes to formulate the first 5-year Comprehensive Strategic Plan (CSP). Beginning in June 2014, CSP Subcommittee chair Bob Button initiated sessions with Administration and the Board Chair to map out the process leading up to CSP presentation and adoption at the September 2014 Board of Trustee meeting. Several milestone events followed. In June 2014, a group (including a cross section of administration, faculty, and student representatives) held a workshop to provide grass roots constituency input to the CSP. The session revolved around two questions: 1. What are we currently doing? 2. What might we want to consider doing in the future? Discussion thereafter ensued between the TBS President, Board Chair, and subcommittee chair. In July 2014, a subcommittee meeting with the TBS President resulted in adoption of the CSP design framework, identification of component sections, identification of section objectives, goals, timetables, responsible individuals tasked with completing, financial resources, and item statuses. The Board of Trustees received the plan design and framework in late July for their consideration, input and identification of missing components. Following additional engagement with the newly hired Provost in August 2014 , the committee issued the first draft to the Board in mid-August. After considering and integrating their feedback, the Board received the final version of the first TBS CAP and approved it at the September 28, 2014 Board of Trustees meeting. The CSP is reviewed annually by TBS administration and staff. The Board utilizes the plan as the outline for their annual Strategic Planning Retreat (normally held each February), and approves the updated plan annually. 12 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Design The plan outline consists of nine component sections: • Educational Programs • Enrollment • Staffing • Finances • Facilities • Policies and Procedures • Accreditation • Alumni • Communications and Marketing Each section is further divided to address the following elements: Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status Specific goals, Amount(s) Current status Time ranges, Person(s) including ranges of 1- required to at the time of Initiative(s) to pursue deadlines, responsible for 2 year and 3-5 year fund the compiling the targets, etc. implementation goals initiative(s) report Utilization The TBS administration and staff review and update the CSP annually as part of the ongoing cycle of planning, budgeting and assessment, incorporating input from all institutional constituencies. The CSP is also reviewed and approved by the Board of Trustees each year to ensure that it continues to support the Mission and Purpose of the institution. This annual planning effort requires systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of relevant feedback information, for effective impact on the institution’s programs, policies, procedures and budgets. As such, the results of assessments and continuous evaluation processes are incorporated into the strategic planning process, specifically as part of the annual Board Strategic Planning Retreat usually held each February. Instruments such as the annual Board self-assessment, student course evaluations, faculty evaluations, annual audits, and donor input are utilized. The Board Chair is tasked with administering the annual Board self-assessment and ensuring the annual financial audit is conducted with results reviewed by the Board. The administration is tasked with conducting course and faculty evaluations each semester as well as staff assessments annually. 13 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
PLAN COMPONENTS Educational Programs Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status Bible Certificate Program (BC) Offer a BIBLE CERTIFICATE Offer Bible Certificate (BC) Annually Provost 21 consecutive sem. (BC) program that engages courses every semester Sp 2008 – Sp 2018 students in all 66 books of the 1399 enrollees Bible. 1958 w/Perspectives Begin with program consisting Offer at least one Bible Study Annually Provost Offered 19/21 sem. of 7 core classes plus at least Methods (BSM) class every Sp 2008 – Sp 2018 1 elective. year 488 students total Offer one OT and NT course Begin 2017 Provost Began 2017-18 every semester Offer min. 1 Elective/sem. Annually Provost Began 2013 Offer every class at least Annually Provost Began 2013 once every 4 semesters Deliver instruction face-to- Annually Provost Began 2013 face on-site every semester Offer Continuing Education Review CEU organizations for 2015 Provost Initiated summer credit for BC courses options, select one, pursue 2015 relationship, and implement CEU credits as an option. Establish relationship with 2015 Provost Approved Nov 2015, the Association of Christian 1st credits given Dec Schools International (ACSI) 2015 to offer CEU credit for TBS BC courses. Evaluate the entire scope, Conduct research, suggest 2016-17 Admin. Completed review design, and delivery of the BC improvements based on Faculty May 2017 program research, formulate plans, Students implement plans Alumni Implemented with Fall 2017 semester • Refine BC CORE to: Aim to President implement by Provost o Bible Study Methods Fall 2017 o OT I, II, and III o NT I and II • Add “Bible Panorama” as CORE 14-wk launch course to provide overall Bible framework perspective 14 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status (cont) • Maintain total classroom President Complete contact hours but lengthen Provost course sessions and decrease number of Fall 2017 classes to 8 weeks to help accommodate two 8-week sessions per semester • Add graduate courses as Added 15 auditors to Fall 2017 electives for $250 audit grad classes • Deliver new BC program Fall 2017 Distributed to 150+ book to all BC students BC students • Add new adjuncts to Fall 2017 accommodate growth 6 new adjuncts • Partner with other Spring 2018 Partnered w/Reasons churches and ministries to to Believe to offer produce select BC classes “God & Science” Expand access to BC program Offer BC courses in other Provost content languages President • Spanish Fall 2015 Began Fall 2015 Offer BC courses physically in @Location YR began other locations (Remote • Katy/W Houston Instructional Locations): @TBS 2012 @GFUMC 2014 • Katy/W Houston Fall 2014 @Kingsland 2015 • NW Houston Fall 2016 @COTHA 2017 • SW Houston Fall 2017 @Ecclesia 2018 • IBC (San Antonio) Spring 2019 @Mission Bend ‘18 • SE Houston Fall 2019 @Parkway 2018 • NE Houston Fall 2020 • NW Houston • Austin, TX Fall 2021 @Faithbridge 2016 @The Brook 2016 @Windwood 2018 • SW Houston @SLFC 2017 @COLW 2018 • San Antonio @MCF 2017 Explore offering BC courses Fall 2018 Tested synchronous online delivery in Fall 2017, on hold Explore offering BC classes or 2018-20 derivative seminars for Exploring camps, retreats, trips 15 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status Offer GRADUATE degree Graduate first degree class by May 17, 2015 Administration Complete programs that walk students May 2015 through all 66 books of the Bible. Begin with Master of Explore instructional plan Fall 2016 Provost Began Fall 2016 Divinity (MDiv) and consider options offering classes adding other programs. during nights and weekends Network with local, national, Annually Provost Ongoing since and international ministries 2013 to incorporate additional teaching sites and guest speakers into the program Offer select class(es) online Begin 2016 Administration Offered online to synchronously (live) and Faculty remote students: record for potential Provost F 2016, SFM 501 asynchronous delivery (on S 2017, SFM 502 demand) S 2017, THE 511 F 2017, THE 520 S 2018, THE 502 S 2018, THE 510 F 2018, GRK 501 F 2018, SFM 506 F 2018, THE503 Offer additional graduate Add Master of Arts (MA) degrees that are shorter and program President Began Spring 2014-15 provide elective options Provost 2015 Offer a program to meet the Add Dual Degree Completion need of prospective (DD) program graduate students who have President Began Spring 2014-15 not yet completed an Provost 2015 undergraduate degree Offer options for prospects Add Licensed Professional who may not want or need a (LP) program President degree, but who want core 2014-15 Began Fall 2015 Provost training Offer STUDY TOURS for Conduct Holy Land study Began 2015 Administration Trips conducted additional learning trips regularly with TBS • Jan 2015 opportunities students, family and friends Annually • May/Jun 2018 starting 2018 Scheduled • May/Jun 2019 • May/Jun 2020 • May/Jun 2021 • May/Jun 2022 Offer study trips to other 2019 Administration Exploring historical/religious locations in the U.S. and abroad 16 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status Offer graduate courses, and Begin by offering LP classes in NW Houston eventually entire programs, in regional proximity locations to President @Faithbridge other physical locations attract student body for potential MA and MDiv Complete: • Other Houston regions 2016 F 2016, SFM 501 • Other Texas regions 2020 S 2017, SFM 502 • Other states 2022 F 2017, PAS 501 S 2018, PAS 511 Scheduled: F 2018, BSM 501 F 2018, SFM 500 S 2019, THE 510 F 2019, PRE 501 S 2020, THE 501 Assess graduate degree • Match Bible book(s) with Review Provost Ongoing since courses, programs, and appropriate course(s) every course 2012 schedules • Examine course content every relative to overall programs semester • Determine most effective ways to deliver content Offer some interchangeable Fall 2017 Provost Began Fall 2017 course options for degrees Review entire MA program 2017-18 President Completed • Assess Bible books matches, Provost Spring 2018 course offerings, and Faculty content Students Switched some • Explore number of credit Staff Bible book hours/courses required Board matches, added o MDiv and changed o MA some courses o LP • Explore possible MA majors Reduced MDiv to o Biblical History and 84 credit hours Archaeology (MABHA) o Biblical Languages and Added MA Culture (MABLC) majors: o Biblical Studies (MABS) • MABHA, 60 hrs o Church History and • MABLC, 54 hrs Theology (MACHT) • MABS, 60 hrs o Biblical Counseling • MACHT, 48 hrs (MABC) o Christian Education Increased LP (MACE) from 8 to 9 • Review assessment criteria courses and methods Add Capstone class to MA and MDiv programs 17 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Enrollment Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status Averages Establish a healthy Provost YR BC F,S|G F, S baseline student 12 11,18 | 9, 9 enrollment in each Enroll per CLASS: By: 13 10,12 |15,12 class and program • 10 2014-15 14 14,13 |13,15 • 12 2015-16 15 14,15 | 5, 6 • 10 2016-17 16 12,12 | 5, 7 • 10 2017-18 17 14, 9 | 9, 6 • 12 2018-19 18 • 14 2019-20 19 Enroll LP PROGRAM By: LP Actual • 3 2014-15 15 = 3 • 5 2015-16 16 = 11 • 7 2016-17 17 = 8 • 9 2017-18 18 = • 11 2018-19 19 = • 13 2019-20 Enroll MA PROGRAM By: MA Actual • 1 2015-16 15 = 3 • 3 2016-17 16 = 4 17 = 9 • 5 2017-18 18 = • 7 2018-19 19 = • 9 2019-20 Enroll MDiv By: MDiv Actual • 25 2012-13 12 = 11 • 25 2013-14 13 = 16 • 25 2014-15 14 = 17 • 25 2015-16 15 = 7 • 25 2016-17 16 = 5 • 25 2017-18 17 = 9 • 25 2018-19 18 = • 25 2019-20 19 = Expand to additional Add: By: President Added: PROGRAM locations 1 new location 2016 Provost 16 Faithbridge where at least 15 new 2 new locations 2020 students commit to 3 new locations 2024 enroll in the program 18 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Staffing Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status Employ FULL-TIME staff to Retain a President (CEO) Annually Board of Trustees Since 2011 help lead the seminary with annual renewal contracts Retain a Provost (CAO) Annually President Oct 2015 offered each June-May Jan 2017 Retain a Faculty Dean Annually President Jan 2012 (Disability Nov 2016) Hire a Full-time Faculty 2017 President/Provost Jul 2017 Hire a Director of Inst. Adv. 2018-19 President On hold Hire a Full-time Faculty 2019 President/Provost (Jan 2019) Hire a BC Director 2020 President/Provost Employ PART-TIME staff to Communications Director Annually President Aug 2012 help manage the seminary Aug 2015 with annual renewal contracts None 16-18 offered each June-May (other than seasonal employees, Admin. Assistant/Librarian Annually President Jan 2012 such as Summer Interns) Vol. 2018 Administrative Coordinator Annually President Jul 2012 Aug 2014 Mar 2015 Summer Intern(s) As needed President May 2014 Business Manager 2015 President Aug 2016 Communications Coord. 2017 President Aug 2017 Marketing Coord. 2017 President Aug 2017 Finance Administrator 2018 President May 2018 Development Director 2019 President Registrar 2020 President Secure regular part-time VP Finance/Administration Annually President Aug 2010 VOLUNTEERS to help with Finance Administrator Annually VP Finance/Adm. Jan 2014 seminary administration Librarian Annually President Jan 2018 Secure seasonal part-time Annual Banquet Team Annually Board Chair 2014, 17 VOLUNTEERS to help with various events and projects Communications Assistant(s) Annually Com. Director May 2014 Employ sufficient ADJUNCT Classes per semester, BC | G By: Provost Actual FACULTY to help teach current • 3|5 2012-13 12 3, 3 | 5, 5 program courses • 4|5 2013-14 13 6, 5 | 5, 5 • 5|5 2014-15 14 5, 4 | 7, 5 • 6|6 2015-16 15 6, 5 | 5, 6 • 7|6 2016-17 16 5, 4 | 6, 5 • 8|6 2017-18 17 9, 8 | 7,10 • 9|5 2018-19 18 Employ additional ADJUNCT Hire Hispanic faculty for 2015 Provost 1 Fall 2015 FACULTY to teach new classes Bible Certificate program +1 Sp 2018 + 1 F 2018 19 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Finances Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status Preliminary and final Preliminary approval None Ongoing VP Fin/Admin Maintain an Annual budget approvals by prior to June 1, each since 2010 Staff Operating Budget Board year; final approval Board Finance in September, after Committee enrollment finalized Review and update each Annually each None Ongoing VP Fin/Admin Maintain a 5-year year; prepare detailed January since 2010 Staff financial plan summary/assumptions Board Finance for each line item, as Committee necessary Set tuition and fees to Annually President Possible Ongoing Review tuition and reflect market VP Fin/Admin minimal since 2011 fees schedule consistency and meet Bus. Manager expense for operational solvency Provost market analysis Board Distribute invoices Notify students of Monthly in Postage Ongoing Business and statements to payments due conjunction with since 2012 Manager, students semester schedules Admin. Coord. Assist students with Provide procedural Annually Minimal, for Ongoing fundraising guidance and resource copying/printing since 2012 Provost materials to students materials and postage Host large Provide TBS updates and Bi-annually $16,000-20,000 9/21/14 celebration solicit donor support beginning in 2014 1/27/17 Board banquet (2/8/19) Host smaller info Provide TBS updates and Bi-annually $2000 Date, # Attended meetings solicit donor support beginning in 2018 3/24/18, 34 Administration 4/21/18, 26 (off-set from Board banquet years) Conduct financial Audit financial Annual audit $6,000 per year Ongoing audit statements • Approve auditor since 2012 Board Audit selection in Spring Committee, • Begin after May VP Fin/Admin 31 close each year Bus. Man. • Complete by Nov 1 Complete annual File Form 990 By Oct 15 each year VP Fin/Admin, Postage Ongoing IRS filings Bus. Man. since 2011 Engage in major Raise per year: By: Actual fundraising to help $ 500,000 2014 14 = $367 fund the TBS $ 600,000 2015 15 = $455 Board mission $ 700,000 2016 16 = $568 President $ 800,000 2017 17 = $553 $ 900,000 2018 18 = $613 $1,000,000 2019 19 = Subscribe to Access online fundraising By 2013 Since 2013 President FoundationSearch resources 20 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Facilities Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status Review main campus facilities Assure consistency of Annually Ongoing since adequacy, maintenance, and facilities with current 2012 President obsolescence and immediate VP Fin/Admin demands, based on enrollment/programs Forecast long-range plans for Determine space Annually Board Campus 2008 GFUMC main campus requirements for Development 2012 GSWEC seminary activities Committee Fire/safety inspections Operability and Monthly Minimal, for Ongoing, adequacy of smoke replacement procedure detectors, fire VP Fin/Admin of obsolete documented extinguishers, equipment evacuation plans, etc. Secure extension sites to teach Cultivate LOCAL sites and Annually Class locations both Bible Certificate and ministry partners (not counting graduate courses, including Israel): both individual class sessions, Cultivate REGIONAL sites 2014, 21 as well as entire courses and ministry partners President 2017, 37 Provost 2018, 42 Cultivate NATIONAL sites and ministry partners (see BC and Graduate sections) The Bible Seminary’s main campus facilities consist of leased space with two classrooms (270 = 40 seats, 250 = 32 seats), a Library/Boardroom (14-20 seat capacity), six individual office spaces plus a 3-desk shared office area, a reception area, and access to common restroom facilities. Total simultaneous capacity on the main campus approximates 86 - 92 students in three classrooms. Bible Certificate courses begin 2008 hosted in various available local church facilities, mostly at Grace Fellowship United Methodist Church. In preparation for launching the Master of Divinity program in September 2012, TBS initially secured temporary office, library and single classroom space at 2655 S Mason Rd, Katy, TX 77450, on the grounds of the Great Southwest Equestrian Center (GSWEC) via a 3-year lease from the GSWEC. The original footprint aimed to meet the seminary’s initial 1-3 year needs. Preliminary work on TBS future facility needs and options for campus development began in 2011, with a formal Campus Development Committee (CDC), consisting of TBS trustees, established by the TBS Board in 2012. The CDC charge was to evaluate near term and intermediate future facility needs and the strategy by which to provide such facilities. In November, 2012 the CDC presented to the Board a comprehensive strategy to assess future facility needs, evaluate various options, and exercise good stewardship in guiding TBS into the next phase of campus development. The strategy included maintaining relationship with the current lessor and evaluating expansion of existing leased space as opportunities became available. A March 2013 opportunity to expand the then current lease and acquire additional adjacent classroom space within the same building complex became available. The CDC reviewed this option with the Board on March 3, 2013, including current capacities and demands, various enrollment based projections for future space needs, and an overview of the flexibility that additional space would provide. TBS signed a revised lease for these facilities that extended through July 2018, then signed a new lease extension for these same facilities through July 2020. Documentation related to this section includes lease documents, facility inspection records, and Board Development Committee meeting minutes, all available on file in the TBS offices on campus. 21 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Policies and Procedures Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status Provide the five handbooks Administrative Policies All reviewed VP Fin/Admin Since 2012 required for TRACS and Procedures and updated accreditation by 2014, then Board Handbook annually Board Chair Since 2013 Faculty Handbook Provost Since 2013 Student Catalog President Since 2012 Provost Student Handbook (Combined President Since 2018 with Catalog Provost until 2018) Institute a Comprehensive Write CAP By 2014 Administration Since May Assessment Plan (CAP) 2014 Implement In 2014 Evaluate and improve Annually Conduct Annual reviews in (see CAP for details and Annually Administration Since 2014 every area in accordance with schedules) the CAP Institute a Comprehensive Write CSP By 2014 Administration Completed Strategic Plan (CSP) Sep 2014 Implement In 2014 Began 2014 Review, evaluate and Annually Feb 2015 improve the plan during Board Feb 2016 Strategic Feb 2017 Planning Feb 2018 Retreat 22 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Accreditation Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status Prepare for TRACS application • Complete the 10 IER’s Fall 2014 President Submitted (Institutional Eligibility Provost • Jul 2015 Requirements) Summer • On hold 2015 due to $ concerns Summer 2017 Resubmitted • Jul 2017 Approved • Jan 2018 Apply for TRACS Applicant • Submit TRACS “Applicant Fall 2014 President $6,000 Submitted status Institutional Profile” Sum. 2017 Provost • May 2015 Win. 2017-18 • Jul 2017 • Jan 2018 Approved • Jan 2018 Attend TRACS Annual • Send TBS representative Annually President $3,000 Attended Conferences each Fall • Oct 2013 Engage in additional TRACS • Submit Self-study Proposal Jan 2018 President $2,000 Jan 2018 accreditation processes to • Initial TRACS staff visit Mar 2018 Mar 2018 move from Applicant to • Conduct Self-study #1 Mid-2018 In process Candidate to Accredited • Submit Self-study Report #1 Fall 2018 status • Host Evaluation Team #1 Nov 2018 $9,000 • Appear TRACS Commission $3,500 Apr 2019 • Pay TRACS Fees for $19,000 Apr 2019 Candidate status • TRACS Staff visit for $2,000 May 2019 Candidate status • Conduct Self-study #2 Sum. 2019 • Submit Self-study report #2 Fall 2019 $9,000 • Host Evaluation Team #2 Nov 2019 $3,500 • Appear TRACS Commission Apr 2020 $19,050 • Pay TRACS fees for Apr 2020 Accredited status Explore additional options for Explore pursuing accreditation (After TRACS President and On hold accreditation and association with the Association of accreditation) Provost Theological Schools (ATS) Explore pursuing accreditation (After ATS President and On hold with the Southern Association accreditation) Provost of Colleges and Schools (SACS) Apply for membership with the 2018 President and In process Evangelical Council for Financial Provost Accountability (EFCA) 23 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
Alumni Objective Goals Timeline Leader(s) Budget Status Establish a communication Employ online resources to Annually in Spiritual $0 Initiated system to engage, highlight, establish connections with SFM 505 class Formation and May 2015 and support TBS Alumni TBS alumni Ministry faculty • TBS website - assist current students in setting up and learning how to manage and update their personal profiles online • Social media sites – form groups and pages and establish links to students (Facebook, Google+, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.) Select officers (President, Annually in Spiritual $0 Began 2018 Vice-President, and SFM 505 class Formation and Secretary/Treasurer) from Ministry faculty among graduates to serve as representatives (i.e. intermediaries between the school and alumni) Include alumni highlights and Annually or Communications $0 Began 2015 updates in The Sentinel bi-annually staff Post alumni highlights and Regularly Communications $0 Began 2015 updates online in social staff media posts Conduct alumni interviews Phone, email, personal visits Annually Provost $0 Began 2015 for support/encouragement Conduct electronic surveys By 2015 Send survey to all alumni: • Within two months of Annually graduating each summer • After one year • After every five years 24 Comprehensive Strategic Plan, 2018-22 | The Bible Seminary
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