Scott Pace Appointed Seventh President of South-East Baptist Theological Seminary, Emphasizes Training Graduates Not “Distant from Reality”

Scott Pace has been appointed as the seventh president of the South-East Baptist Theological Seminary (SEBTS), effective following his inauguration on Tuesday at the seminary’s campus in Wake Forest, North Carolina. He succeeds Daniel Eikin, who retired in July after 21 years of leadership. Pace, 51, emphasized the importance of equipping graduates who are “not distant from reality,” ensuring they can apply their education effectively in practical ministry settings.

In his inaugural address, Pace stated that the seminary exists “to serve the local church, not to replace it.” He urged students to engage actively in church life, stressing that the institution’s purpose is to prepare leaders who are grounded in the real world rather than isolated in academic detachment. “As an educational institution, we cannot release students separated from reality, living in an ivory tower and unable to transfer their world-class education to the working class,” he said.

Pace described the seminary’s mission as being “a mission agency, a spirit institution, and a Bible institution.” He affirmed the Bible as “the inspired, unmistakable, infallible Word of God,” declaring it “the sole and supreme authority for all life.” He emphasized the need to integrate Scripture into all areas of study and to train students to “thirst and drink from the water source alive” so their souls may be “truly satisfied.”

The new president also outlined his vision for SEBTS to “train students on how to protect the Bible, how to trust the Bible, and how to teach and preach the Bible.” This focus aligns with the seminary’s commitment to theological education rooted in biblical authority.

Daniel Eikin, who led the seminary since its founding in 1950, announced his resignation in October 2025 after a long tenure marked by growth in student enrollment and financial support. “We’re in the world with our decision, and the college and seminary are healthy and prosperous,” Eikin stated, expressing confidence in the institution’s future under Pace’s leadership.

Eikin’s tenure saw the seminary expand its influence and resources, positioning it as a key player in Southern Baptist theological education. His departure marks the end of an era, as the seminary transitions to a new leadership under Pace’s vision.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Russian)