A Message from the Rt. Rev. Thomas L. Kline
Executive Bishop and Chancellor of the Academy
February 5, 2007

I am pleased to announce my appointment of Mr. Dudley Davis as the Special Assistant to the Chancellor and operational leader at the Academy.  We are working on completing the details which will make it possible for him to join the Academy administration this school year.  The companion document on Proposed Governance Changes at the Academy will explain this new position and how it interfaces with the Priest-President of the Academy Schools.  The Rt. Rev. Brian Keith will remain as Interim President of the Academy until the end of this school year, during which time I will appoint a new President for the Academy, effective July 1, 2007. 

Because the Special Assistant role is an appointment, I did not go through a formal selection process, but I did interview many teachers, administrators, Board members and potential candidates both inside and outside of the Academy as the concept of a Special Assistant developed.  This new role is not a temporary or intermediate position, but what I feel is an important step in the evolution of the overall structure of the Academy to help in the following areas:

1. Define and strengthen priestly leadership at the Academy
2. Define and maintain the distinctive roles of the Board and the Administration
3. Enhance our commitment to our core vision of New Church education
4. Support our teachers in their work in the classroom
5. Look toward a fully functioning college with its own president

This evolution of the Academy structure will most likely necessitate by-law changes in the future. 

The companion document was the proposal taken to the Academy Board of Trustees. There are still many details of the roles of Priest-President and Special Assistant that need to be developed.  Most important is looking to the Word to find a picture of true priestly leadership in an Academic setting, primarily, giving the priest-leader the time and authority to focus on the core mission, lead the continued study of doctrine, give leadership to curriculum and address spiritual and moral decisions that arise. 

Mr. Davis has served the Academy for more than 30 years as a teacher, administrator and Development Officer.  He is a man of vision and decisive leadership.  Foremost is his commitment to distinctive New Church education.  He is dedicated to the long-term goal of a New Church University. 

I feel this is an exciting time for both the General Church and the Academy Schools.  May we continue to look to the Lord for His blessing in this important work.