The University of Dallas announced in May 2012 the appointment of Mark Goodwin, associate professor of theology and department chair, as interim dean of the School of Ministry. Goodwin will fill the school's top spot while the university undergoes a national search to replace departing Dean Brian Schmisek, who left in June to become director of Loyola University Chicago's Institute of Pastoral Studies.
"I am pleased to serve the university, and particularly the School of Ministry, during this time of transition," said Goodwin.
Goodwin, who has taught in the university's Department of Theology for nearly two decades, has served as department chair since 2010. His interests in scripture are wide-ranging, but are focused on the New Testament and its first century Jewish environment. In 2001, Goodwin published a book, titled "Paul, Apostle of the Living God: Kerygma and Conversion in 2 Corinthians," which explores the Jewish character of Paul's God-talk.
He holds a doctorate and two master's degrees from Yale University one in philosophy and one in religion in addition to a bachelor's degree from John Hopkins University.
"Mark Goodwin's longtime service to the University of Dallas, including the effective leadership he has demonstrated as chair of the Department of Theology, will undoubtedly help continue our School of Ministry's forward momentum," said University of Dallas President Thomas W. Keefe. "I am so delighted he has agreed to assume this responsibility."
"The School of Ministry has made great progress in recent years," said University of Dallas Executive Vice President and Provost Bill Berry. "Mark's leadership will continue that progress and advance the university's service to the Church."
During Schmisek's tenure as dean, the School of Ministry introduced an undergraduate degree in pastoral ministry, a master's degree in Catholic school teaching, the University of Dallas Ministry Conference and other programs, as well as made significant strides toward international recognition of the school as a premier institution for those seeking theological studies, faith formation, pastoral skills and spiritual growth.
"I believe deeply in the mission of the University of Dallas, which is what attracted me here," said Schmisek. "A vibrant Catholic faith, responsive to the needs of the Church, combined with the highest academic standards, is a hallmark of the School of Ministry in particular and the university in general. This is a remarkable place with tremendous potential, and I am proud to have served as the School's founding dean."
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