The John Leland Center for Theological Studies in Arlington has received full accreditation from the Association of Theological Schools.
ATS, the premier agency for seminary accreditation in North America, granted the accreditation at its June 14 board meeting.
“Full accreditation of the Leland Center was accomplished in record time,” said Jeffrey Willetts, Leland's academic dean. “In Leland's eight-year history it has progressed from dream to fully functioning theological seminary offering diploma, master of divinity and master of theological studies classes. More than 900 students have already taken Leland classes.”
In March 2006 an ATS evaluation team visited Leland's main campus. Its report was the basis for the affirmative action of the ATS board. In the evaluation team's report Leland's faculty was cited for their “notable scholarship and dedication to effective teaching.” Leland's students and alumnus were called “an impressive group,” and the school's “strong commitment to the local church” was noted.
“This affirmation from the academic faith community of ATS indicates that the Leland Center is on track with our mission statement to equip transformational leaders for the emerging church,” said Randel Everett, Leland's president. “In God's providence and grace, God has brought together gifted students, faculty and trustees that have brought this dream to reality.”