Simpson University's Board of Trustees Announce the Hire of the Next President

Immediate Release
June 19, 2006

REDDING, Calif. -- The Simpson University Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the unanimous selection of Dr. Larry J. McKinney as president of Simpson University. He succeeds Dr. James M. Grant, who retired in April after serving 13 years as president.

Board chairman Dale Dyk issued the following statement on Monday, June 19, 2006: 'We are very pleased with the results and timing of our national search for the next president of Simpson University. Dr. McKinney brings a wealth of experience in Christian higher education, and we are fortunate to have someone of his caliber and expertise to help lead the university through our next season of development. Larry and his wife Debbie will be wonderful additions to Simpson and the Redding community.'

Dr. Larry J. McKinney, a native of Farmington, Pennsylvania, holds a Bachelor of Science in Bible from Philadelphia Biblical University (1972), a Master of Arts in Educational Ministries from Wheaton College (1974), and a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration from Temple University (1986).

Dr. McKinney is currently serving as the Executive Director of the Association for Biblical Higher Education based in Orlando, Florida. This educational agency serves nearly 200 faith-based colleges and universities in the United States and Canada. He previously served as the President of Providence College and Seminary in Otterburne, Manitoba (Canada), from 1993-2001 and as Vice President for Student Development at Philadelphia Biblical University in Langhorne, PA, from 1980-1993.

In addition to his executive director responsibilities, Dr. McKinney also engages in consulting, teaching, and public speaking for institutions of higher education, churches, and conferences, and is an accomplished author. Dr. McKinney is recognized nationally for his work in the field of higher education through positions he has held, his participation in the development and support of federal initiatives and his participation in various college and university associations. He currently serves on the Board of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities and on the Executive Committee of the International Council for Evangelical Theological Education.

Larry and Debbie have been married for 34 years. Debbie, also a graduate of Philadelphia Biblical University, has spent the past 20 years as an elementary and early childhood teacher. They have two married children -- Jason (31) and Jamie (29) -- and are enjoying their first grandchild, Chloe.

The McKinneys said Monday they are excited about coming to Simpson University and becoming part of the Redding community. 'Simpson has a rich history and an unwavering commitment to excellence in Christian higher education,' Dr. McKinney said. 'It has been able to make a measurable impact on Northern California and beyond. We look forward to joining hands with the Simpson community in building upon the university's rich heritage and moving the institution to the next level.'

Dr. McKinney will begin his duties as president of Simpson University in mid-August, allowing him to be in place as the fall semester gets underway.

Simpson University, located at 2211 College View Drive in Redding, is a Christian liberal arts university offering undergraduate, graduate and teaching credential programs. Simpson's academic programs include ASPIRE, a degree-completion program geared toward working adults in the north state. For more information about the university, or to arrange a personalized visit, call 1-888-9-SIMPSON or visit www.simpsonuniversity.edu.

Images of Dr. McKinney may be downloaded from http://design.simpsonuniversity.edu/pic/

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