Gorman to become research professor

Sulpician Father Thomas R. Hurst, president-rector of St. Mary’s Seminary and University in Roland Park, has announced Dr. Michael Gorman will step down at the end of the 2011–2012 academic year after more than 18 years in the Dean’s office of the Ecumenical Institute of Theology.

Gorman, who is also a full professor of Scripture at St. Mary’s, will assume the newly created position of Distinguished Research Professor of Sacred Scripture July 1, 2012.

“Dr. Gorman has steadily guided the E.I. to the place of academic, spiritual, and ministerial strength that it is today,” Father Hurst said. “We are all thankful for his commitment and hard work during the last two decades.”

Gorman joined the Ecumenical Institute’s faculty in 1991, becoming Associate Dean in 1993, Acting Dean in 1994, and Dean in 1995. During his tenure as Dean, he established two new academic programs, the M.A. in Church Ministries and the Certificate of Advanced Studies.

Gorman has significantly increased the institute’s endowment, and has been a leader in bringing world-class scholars to campus for lectures and seminars. He , raised the institute’s profile in the greater theological world.

In addition to his work as Dean, Gorman is known for his teaching excellence and his scholarship.

“Many of our students, alums, and friends may not know that Dr. Gorman is a leading interpreter of the New Testament, especially the writings of the apostle Paul,” Father Hurst said.

During his time as Dean, Dr. Gorman has written seven books and edited another, while also publishing some 30 articles and an equal number of book reviews. He has also given hundreds of talks and lectures. Gorman is also on the editorial board of two journals of biblical interpretation and on the steering committee of two scholarly groups devoted to the theological interpretation of Scripture.

“Mike’s exemplary giftedness in teaching has been experienced by current students and alums, both near and far – including me,” said Ecumenical Institute alum Dr. Pat Fosarelli, the institute’s Associate Dean and Director of the M.A. in Church Ministries.

A search committee for the new Dean is being formed, and a national search will be launched in the very near future.