Innovation in theological education requires systemic thinking, shared practices, and organizational alignment rooted in mission.
In this episode, Greg Henson, president of Kairos University, speaks with Dr. Brent Sleasman, president of Winebrenner Theological Seminary, about how innovation in theological education requires systemic thinking, shared practices, and organizational alignment rooted in mission. Brent explains that true innovation happens when institutions move away from siloed structures, create spaces for shared information and collaboration, and shift from permission-withholding to permission-giving leadership. He describes Winebrenner’s experience reducing costs, increasing enrollment, and strengthening mission delivery not by adding new programs, but by integrating people, structures, and decision-making around a shared purpose. Both leaders emphasize that innovation is ultimately a way of being, one shaped by long-term formation, organizational discipleship, and alignment across faculty, staff, boards, and students, so that theological schools can faithfully support the church and foster new expressions of ministry.
