A message from the incoming president:
I’m excited and proud to share important updates about our academic leadership team as we embark on reimagining a distinctive, doctrinally rooted academic offering. Effective immediately, I’m appointing Marcy Latta as our new Chief Academic Officer (CAO) and Sean Lawing as our new Dean of Faculty. Both will play instrumental roles in partnering with faculty, shared governance, the Core Cabinet, and me to shape the future of Bryn Athyn College of the New Church.
Introducing Marcy Latta, CAO
Marcy brings a wealth of experience and an invaluable perspective to her new role as CAO, having previously served as Dean of Faculty. A dedicated Associate Professor of Philosophy and Writing, Marcy has been an integral part of several key committees, including Core and Curriculum and Academic Policy, where she has co-chaired initiatives to review academic programs, policies, and publications, ensuring that they align with the College's mission and goals. She is also an active member of the Religion, Sacred Languages, and Philosophy Department, contributing her expertise to courses that rest on the Heavenly Doctrine perspective and support the spiritual and intellectual development of our students.
Marcy’s leadership, deep understanding of academic governance, and her commitment to collaboration will be essential as she works closely with Sean Lawing to align our academic programs with our reimagined mission-driven vision.
Welcoming Sean Lawing, Dean of Faculty
Sean Lawing steps into the role of Dean of Faculty with an impressive blend of academic
and administrative experience. Sean is an active member of the History and Social
Sciences Department and as an Associate Professor of History, he has inspired students
with his expertise in medieval Scandinavia, Old Norse sagas, and German studies.
His leadership extends beyond the classroom, having previously served as department
chair, division head, and director of admissions, where he gained valuable insight
into the connections across enrollment management, faculty, and student success.
He also serves on the Planning, Finance, and Outcomes as well as the Curriculum and
Academic Policy committees.
Sean’s breadth of experience and commitment to fostering collaboration will be critical as we work together to shape Bryn Athyn College’s future.
Thanking Jonathan Kline for His Service
I also want to take this moment to express my deepest gratitude to Jonathan Kline, who has concluded his role as Chief Academic Officer. Jonathan signed on as CAO in 2021 for a three-year term, serving under two presidents. During this time, he channeled his energy and passion into strengthening Bryn Athyn College during a pivotal period.
While stepping away from administrative responsibilities, Jonathan is returning to other areas that he loves and finds deeply fulfilling. This term you will find Jonathan teaching courses in stained glass and writing while dedicating time to research projects he is eager to complete. The College and I are profoundly thankful for Jonathan’s service and dedication to this beloved institution, which he extended beyond his original three-year contracted term.
Looking Ahead
As we welcome Marcy and Sean into their new roles, I’m confident that their leadership, combined with the collaborative contributions of our incredible faculty and staff, will help us shine a light on a truly distinctive and shared vision for Bryn Athyn College.
Please join me in congratulating Marcy, Sean, and Jonathan on these exciting next steps!