IPS welcomes new director, Brian Schmisek, PhD

This week, the Institute of Pastoral Studies welcomes Brian Schmisek, PhD, as our new director!

Coming to us from the University of Dallas, Dr. Schmisek served as the dean and associate professor in the UD School of Ministry, he succeeds Robert Ludwig, PhD, who will return to the faculty at the end of this academic year after nearly eight years leading IPS.

Dr. Schmisek said he is, “looking forward to building upon the positive legacy that IPS has established through almost 50 years of pioneering professional ministry education.”

Dr. Schmisek brings his entrepreneurial, strategic, and fundraising skills to the leadership of IPS. He hopes to develop new academic initiatives; engage faculty, students, and alumni; and to continue his predecessor’s good work of building strong relationships across a wide network of constituencies.

Along with his wife Marnie, their four children John, Clare, Peter, and Helen, and their dog Kirby, Dr. Schmisek will be residing in the northwest suburbs.

Welcome, Dr. Schmisek, we are so delighted to have you here!