McMaster Divinity College will see a transition in its academic leadership this year as Dr. Jim Dvorak prepares to step away from his role as Vice President Academic in June 2026. Dr. Dvorak joined the College in 2022 and has helped guide the academic life of MDC during a time of significant change in theological education. During the transition, Dr. Paul Evans, Professor of Old Testament, will serve as Interim Vice President Academic while the College prepares to launch a broader search for the next permanent appointment.
As Vice President Academic, Dr. Dvorak has served as a member of the President’s Cabinet, contributing to the leadership of the College and helping to shape the direction of its academic programs during a pivotal period for theological education, including the launch of two new professional MA’s.
President Dr. Stanley E. Porter expressed his appreciation for Dr. Dvorak’s service and leadership during this period:
“Jim has made a significant impact on MDC during his short time as VP Academic. Coming out of Covid was a difficult time for theological institutions, and Jim has helped us immensely in navigating this time and finding a new balance in the modalities of our course offerings. The balanced result has enabled us to reach new heights in enrollment. Speaking personally, I will miss our times of deep conversation about the challenges and opportunities of theological education.”
In addition to his administrative leadership, Dr. Dvorak has contributed significantly to the teaching and mentoring of students. During his time at MDC, he has taught courses at both the doctoral and master’s levels, including the Curriculum, Teaching, and Learning course, which equips PhD students to teach in higher education.
Following his departure from the Vice President Academic role, Dr. Dvorak will remain a part of the MDC community as a Research Fellow, continuing his research and writing. He will also be returning to his hometown in Iowa, where he plans to remain active in research and writing in theological education and related areas.
Dr. Dvorak reflected on his time at McMaster Divinity College:
“I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked with the finest faculty in Christian graduate and doctoral education, and I am proud to have served as VP Academic at my PhD alma mater. Although God has called me to serve in a different kind of ministry, I am very happy to remain connected to MDC as a Research Fellow.”
McMaster Divinity College expresses its sincere gratitude to Dr. Dvorak for his faithful service and leadership over the past four years and looks forward to his continued contributions to the scholarly work of the College.
