Three New Faculty Members Join the Ministry and Biblical Studies Department

Hope International University welcomes new professors to the Pacific Christian College of Ministry and Biblical Studies. End Quote

(1888PressRelease) September 01, 2011 - Fullerton, CA - This fall, Hope International University (HIU) welcomes three additions to their faculty team. Drs. William Baker, Carl Toney, and Blair Wilgus have all joined the Pacific Christian College of Ministry and Biblical Studies and will each be doing their part to further the development of the College.

Dr. Wilgus will be in charge of the online undergraduate program. He has a Ph.D. in Hebrew Bible/Old Testament Studies from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland, a Masters of Divinity and in Old Testament from Lincoln Christian Seminary, and a B.A. in Bible and Preaching from Johnson Bible College. Throughout the application process, Dr. Wilgus said he was impressed with HIU's academic programs and standards as well as "the friendliness, collegiality, and professionalism of the Ministry and Biblical Studies faculty. The opportunity to be part of this team was a big factor in accepting the invitation to come to HIU." He also admitted to being drawn the Orange County weather. "I would be lying if I didn't say that, after five years in rainy Scotland, the southern California sun wasn't a big bonus!"

In addition to looking forward to being a part of and improving Hope's online programs, Dr. Wilgus is excited to share his passion for and knowledge of the Bible with students. "I've grown to love not only what the Old Testament teaches about God, but how it does so," he said. "I hope to share my passion for the Old Testament with students so that they can mine all of the Old Testament as a source for academic interest, ministry effectiveness, and personal devotion."

Dr. Toney, who comes on board as the Director of the Graduate Program, brings over ten years of ministry experience with him. He has a Ph.D. in New Testament and Early Christianity from Loyola University Chicago, a Masters of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary, and a B.A. in Biblical and Theological Studies from Wheaton College. Characteristics of HIU, including the school's vision, people, ethos, and values, drew Dr. Toney to the University and he is thrilled to be a part of the community.

"It is exciting that Hope is on the cutting-edge of online graduate theological education, and I look forward to connecting with students and faculty in new and innovative ways," Dr. Toney said. "As a professor, I desire to help students use their natural talents and spiritual gifts for their vocational calling through the engagement of Scripture in order to deepen their walk with God and relationship with others."

Dr. Baker, who is well-known for being the founder and editor of the Stone-Campbell Journal (SCJ) and conference, will be teaching online graduate level courses and starting to develop a Doctorate of Ministry program. He holds a Ph.D. in New Testament from the University of Scotland in Aberdeen, a Masters of Divinity and in New Testament from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and a B.A. in Ministry and Music from Lincoln Christian College.

With his extensive background with SCJ, Dr. Baker is looking forward to bringing in a new perspective and teaching style to the HIU community. "My role with SCJ and SCJ conference provides me an ever-widening network of colleagues to keep me informed on biblical and theological matters and on matters important to the Stone-Campbell Restoration Movement," he said. "These contacts can also prove helpful for students producing theses for their M.A. or for career counseling students who are considering the pursuit of a doctorate."

Drs. Baker and Toney begin at HIU on September 1, 2011 and Dr. Wilgus will begin on September 6.

Hope International University is a regionally accredited Christian university established in 1928 that integrates faith, service and learning. Through undergraduate, graduate, and online degree programs with faculty and staff dedicated to student success, our students experience a transformative educational experience and are prepared to make an impact with their lives. Our diverse student body represents over 35 states and 40 countries around the world.

To learn more, please visit the Hope International University website at http://www.hiu.edu or contact Katie Gladding, Director of Marketing, at 714.879.3901, x-2692.

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