‘To Everything There is a Season’
August 20, 2018
WILMORE, Ky. — Asbury University President Sandra C. Gray announced Monday that she will transition out of the presidency at the end of the academic year. The announcement came during Academic Convocation Chapel in the historic Hughes Auditorium in front of the entire on-campus student body and full-time faculty, marking a new season for the University.
“Twelve years ago, when I was appointed president, I knew with certainty it was the call of the Lord,” Gray said. “As I have lived into this call under the leading and direction of the Holy Spirit, I have also known with a certainty that He would reveal when it is time to step away. His Word teaches, ‘To everything there is a season.’ The honor and privilege of serving as President of Asbury University during this season are beyond my inadequate words.’”
Gray is the 17th president to serve Asbury since its founding in 1890 by Rev. John Wesley Hughes. During her tenure, Asbury transitioned from college to university, experienced significant enrollment growth, developed numerous graduate-degree and other programs, launched the most comprehensive capital campaign in Asbury’s history and much more. Her faithful leadership continues a long lineage of Asbury excellence — a trait that is sure to characterize the transition process, as well.
While Gray’s transition marks a new season, “this academic year will continue just like the previous 11 and advancing Asbury’s mission remains my top priority,” she said. During an afternoon meeting with faculty and staff, Gray, along with Board of Trustees Chair Larry Brown, stressed Asbury’s continuing reliance on God’s blessing and leadership.
“We are grateful beyond words for President Gray’s courage, vision and commitment to the mission of Asbury University,” Brown said. “As we form a search committee and begin this transition process, we are blessed not only by our lineage of strong leadership, but most importantly by the clear leading of God, today and every day. We are thankful for all that has been accomplished in Asbury’s 128-year history, and we look forward with expectant faith to all that will be accomplished in the seasons to come.”