Acadia Divinity College is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Deborah Shadd as our new Director of Educational Innovation.

Dr. Shadd joined ADC in April and will provide leadership for the College’s Lilly Endowment-funded initiatives, helping us explore new and creative approaches to theological education that prepare leaders for a rapidly changing ministry landscape. In particular, she will lead the work of faculty designed to foster experimentation, collaboration, and fresh thinking around how we form leaders for today and tomorrow. She will also lead ADC’s participation in the Canadian Learning Community for Decolonization and Innovation in Theological Education (CLC) with NAIITS: An Indigenous Learning Community.

Deborah brings a wealth of experience in theological education, leadership development, and global training contexts. Her work has included senior leadership with the Association of Theological Schools and innovative efforts in hybrid and online learning through the Nida Institute for Biblical Scholarship.

Reflecting on the appointment, Dr. Shadd says, “I am honoured and excited to step into the role of Director of Educational Innovation at ADC. The landscape of faith and culture is shifting constantly and quickly in Canada, and it can be challenging for theological schools to keep pace with changing realities and expectations. That’s why I’m so grateful to be joining a team that is deeply committed to meeting these challenges in faithful, thoughtful, and courageous ways.”

“Dr. Shadd’s appointment reflects our ongoing commitment to thoughtful innovation,” says ADC President Dr. Anna Robbins. “We look forward to the ways in which she will help us explore teaching, learning, and thoughtfully engaging the Church in a complex and evolving world. We are grateful to have her as part of our team.”

Please join us in warmly welcoming Dr. Shadd to the ADC community.