Spring 2007 | Volume 65, No. 3

New director for Smith Center

Southwestern Seminary welcomed Evan Lenow as director of the Smith Center for Leadership Development, Jan. 1. Lenow replaces Thomas White, who became the seminary’s vice president for student services last October.

“I saw a unique opportunity to serve both the seminary and the local church by offering conferences and events that educated, edified and equipped believers to make a difference in our world,” Lenow, 28, said of taking the director position.
Lenow is originally from Memphis, Tenn. He most recently served as director of financial aid and international students at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C. Lenow is a PhD candidate in Christian ethics at Southeastern Seminary, focusing his dissertation on the ethics of Thomas Aquinas.

“Evan Lenow is a scholar, husband, father, preacher, ethicist and servant: What a remarkable combination,” President Patterson, said. “All of that and a sense of humor, too. Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is fortunate to secure such a genuinely godly and gifted young scholar.”

Lenow received a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication from Mississippi College, where he also focused his studies on business. Lenow also received a Master of Divinity degree from Southeastern Seminary. Additionally, he has served in student leadership positions at both Mississippi College and Southeastern Seminary.

“His personal leadership abilities, theological education and business background make Mr. Lenow a perfect fit,” White said.

Lenow said that he sees that one of his most unique challenges in the director position will be to keep events at the Smith Center fresh and exciting so that participants will continue to return year after year.

“I am looking forward to planning and hosting conferences that address the urgent needs of believers in the 21st century,” Lenow said.

Lenow and his wife, Melanie, have two daughters, Molly and Elizabeth.