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What does faithful leadership look like for theological schools in 2026? In this forward-looking conversation, Frank Yamada, executive director of the Association of Theological Schools, and Amy Kardash, the president of the In Trust Center, reflect on a season marked by both turbulence and possibility. In conversation with host Matt Hufman, they examine how creativity is emerging amid regulatory uncertainty, financial pressure, and leadership transition – and why collaboration across institutions has become one of the field’s greatest strengths. Drawing on recent data, grant initiatives, and board research, the discussion highlights reasons for cautious optimism, including enrollment growth and new approaches to theological formation. The episode concludes with a thoughtful look at artificial intelligence, inviting leaders to engage both the theological questions and the practical realities of a technology already reshaping higher education. The conversation frames several timely questions for school leaders and board of directors as they plan for the year ahead.

This episode includes discussion about several resources. Those include:

Out of Chaos Comes Creativity — a discussion with Frank Yamada

Notre Dame University’s DELTA framework for considering artificial intelligence

Considering the value proposition of theological education from the winter 2026 In Trust magazine.

A piece about executive turnover in ATS-accredited schools by Frank Yamada.

The December 2025 issue of the ATS newsletter Colloquy, which includes information about enrollment increases.

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What are the trends in governance – the new ways to make things work? First, look to the past. Governance expert Rebekah Basinger, Ed.D., reflects on what theological schools can learn by revisiting enduring principles of board leadership. Drawing on decades of experience, the conversation explores why good governance wisdom remains remarkably consistent – even as pressures from finances, regulation, and post-COVID realities intensify. Basinger names challenges such as executive turnover, shrinking and fatigued boards, and the lingering effects of “long COVID” on board culture and engagement. At the same time, she offers a hopeful vision: boards that reclaim their fiduciary role, invest in meaningful relationships, and approach governance as shared stewardship of mission. The episode invites board members and leaders alike to slow down, ask better questions, and rediscover why their work – and their presence – truly matters.

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In this episode, the Rev. Dr. David Rowe reflects on the sweeping changes affecting higher education and how these pressures are reshaping theological schools. Demographic decline, reduced church demand, and shrinking revenue streams have created intense competition among an oversupply of institutions. Rowe argues that schools must clarify their value proposition by understanding what students actually need and are willing to pay for. He highlights the importance of distinguishing between service, experience, and transformational educational models and aligning each with sustainable economics. He encourages boards to rethink mission, foster experimentation, and explore new audiences to meet today’s real ministry and societal needs.

You can find David Rowe at Windermere Consulting here.

Daniel O. Aleshire's book mentioned in the podcast is here.