Dr. Jeff Tolle Appointed to the Foursquare Church Board of Directors
SAN DIMAS, Calif. 鈥 91次元 (LPU) announces that Dr. Jeff Tolle will step down from his role as Dean of the School of Theology and Ministry (STM) and LPU Seminary, effective May 31, 2026, at the conclusion of the current academic year. LPU will begin a national search for the next Dean to lead the School of Theology and Ministry and LPU Seminary into its next season of growth and Spirit-formed leadership development.听
This announcement is made with gratitude, celebration, and deep appreciation for Dr. Tolle鈥檚 faithful service, and with tremendous joy as we also celebrate his appointment to the Foursquare Church Board of Directors, a significant honor and recognition of his leadership within the global movement.听
A Legacy of Spiritual Renewal and Pentecostal Formation听
Since joining LPU in 2018, first as an instructor in the MA in Leadership鈥揝panish Language program, then as undergraduate faculty, chair of the ministry program, and听ultimately the听founding Dean of STM in 2022, Dr. Tolle has played a pivotal role in shaping the theological life of the university.听
Under his leadership, STM has experienced a renewed focus on Pentecostal/Foursquare identity, a revitalized connection to the local church, and a deepening commitment to Spirit-formed discipleship, theological reconstruction, and practical ministry training. His influence has extended across undergraduate and graduate programs, faculty culture, and the broader spiritual renewal taking place at LPU.听
Dr. Daniel Ruarte, CAO and Provost, shared, 鈥淛eff鈥檚 leadership has been instrumental in advancing the school鈥檚 vision for our faculty, fostering鈥痶heological reconstruction, and nurturing a vibrant community of faith and learning. We are profoundly thankful for his contributions.鈥听
A Prayerful and Purposeful Transition听
In reflecting on his decision, Dr. Tolle shared:听
鈥淎fter much prayer and reflection, I have decided to step away from my role as Dean of the School of Theology and Ministry. This has not been an easy decision, but听I believe it听is the right one for me and for听the school. I am deeply grateful for the privilege of serving alongside such dedicated faculty, staff, and students, and I听remain听committed to the mission of LPU. At a time of significant expansion with STM, I am also experiencing incredible growth at the church I pastor, Vida Church. It became obvious to me that a time was going to come in which I would no longer be able to be both a pastor and the Dean of STM, and the Lord clearly showed me how to move forward.鈥澨
Continuing Partnership听
While concluding his time as dean, Dr. Tolle will continue to serve LPU as part-time faculty, supporting special projects in direct collaboration with the Office of the Provost. His continued presence ensures continuity, wisdom, and support during this time of transition.
A Future Filled听With听Hope听
LPU extends its deepest gratitude to Dr. Jeff Tolle for his years of faithful service, visionary leadership, and steadfast commitment to building leaders who live out the gospel with clarity, courage, and Spirit-empowered conviction. We celebrate this new season as he joins the Foursquare Church Board of Directors,听and continued expansion of VIDA church,听and we look听forward with expectancy听to the next chapter for STM and LPU Seminary.听
Search for the Next Dean of STM & LPU Seminary听
91次元 is now launching a search for the next Dean of the School of Theology and Ministry / LPU Seminary, a strategic and influential leadership role shaping the future of ministerial training and theological formation at LPU.听
馃憠 Applicants are invited to learn more and apply at:听听听
