Former Olivet Nazarene University President John Bowling Named Interim President of Nazarene Bible College

John Bowling, former president of Olivet Nazarene University, has been named interim president of Nazarene Bible College in Colorado Springs. Bowling, who retired four years ago after serving as ONU’s president for 30 years, will begin his new role on March 1. He has informed the school that his tenure will last six to nine months.

Bowling’s appointment comes as the college transitions leadership. Current president Scott Sherwood has accepted a pastorate at Kansas City First Church of the Nazarene. Bowling will assist in guiding the transition through the remainder of the 2024-25 academic year and into the summer. He will help prepare the college for its new president, who is expected to take over for the upcoming school year.

The school’s Board of Trustees unanimously elected Bowling as interim president. His extensive background in education and ministry made him a strong candidate for the role. Bowling began his professional career at Nazarene Bible College in 1976-77 as a teacher before moving to Olivet Nazarene University. He also served as a pastor at the College Church of the Nazarene on ONU’s campus.

Phillip Fuller, NBC’s board chairman, praised Bowling’s qualifications. “I can’t imagine anyone more qualified than John Bowling,” Fuller said. The board sought a leader who could set the school’s direction during this transition. Once Bowling was identified as their top choice, they were determined to retain his leadership.

Bowling will help the college develop a new three-year plan and budget as it seeks to establish itself as a center for ministry training. The school’s focus includes preparing older ministers with families for certification through its new program. His leadership will be instrumental in shaping the institution’s future during this period of change.

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