We are delighted to welcome Reverend Dr Robert (Bob) Derrenbacker who joined the University in January 2019 as the Dean (Principal) and Frank Woods Associate Professor in New Testament of Trinity College Theological School.
Dr Derrenbacker comes to Trinity following an exceptional career at Thorneloe University, an Anglican college federated with Laurentian University in Sudbury, Ontario, Canada, where he held the position of President, Provost and Vice-Chancellor from 2009-2018.
With degrees in Theology from the University of St Michael’s College at the University of Toronto (PhD), Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (MATS) and Wheaton College (BA), Dr Derrenbacker’s academic focus includes the Synoptic Gospels, the letters of Paul, Historical Jesus research, and the social world of the New Testament. He regularly teaches courses on the New Testament Gospels, the letters of Paul, and the portrayal of Jesus in cinema.
Dr Derrenbacker succeeds Reverend Canon Professor Dorothy Lee, the previous Dean, who is now Stewart Research Professor in New Testament at Trinity College Theological School.
Reverend Professor Mark Lindsay, who served as Interim Dean during 2018, said:
“It has been a delight to welcome Bob Derrenbacker and his wife, Cindy, into the Trinity College Theological School community. Bob not only brings scholarly expertise in New Testament studies, and a wealth of experience in senior academic leadership, but – perhaps even more importantly – comes to us with a deep knowledge and appreciation of the breadth and diversity of the Anglican Communion. The faculty, students and wider Trinity family are excited by the new horizons of creative theological education that Bob will open up for us, and look forward with hope and thanks to the years ahead under his leadership.”
Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Gabrielle McMullen AM added:
“As Dr Derrenbacker starts his role as Dean of Trinity College Theological School, we welcome him warmly to the University of Divinity. With his experience of the contemporary North American scene, he will bring insights into theological and church deliberations in the Australian context – for example, his knowledge of First Peoples’ theological endeavours in Canada can inform our initiative to develop Indigenous theology at UD.”
Established in 1877, Trinity College Theological School is committed to shaping men and women who wish to pursue ordination in the Anglican Church, develop skills for lay ministry, or simply explore Christian faith for personal or vocational enrichment and development.
Kerrie Burn
Pilgrim Theological College
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