Notes from the Logsdon Meeting 11am Mon. Feb. 10
40 members of the Logsdon community were present including faculty, staff, alumni, and students (both undergraduate and graduate).
Dr. Ellis started with a reading of Psalm 103 and a prayer. He opened the meeting with a recapping of the news that has been released regarding the closing of Logsdon seminary. The undergraduate programs are to be worked into the College of Liberal Arts at HSU. The seminary programs are being closed. The seminary faculty of Abilene and San Antonio are being offered final year contracts that will not be renewed.
Before opening it up to questions/comments, Ellis commented that it is natural to feel anger and fear during this time. However, we should not be afraid of these things. As Paul mentions, anger must not be mixed with sinfulness. In the midst of fear, trust in the Lord. We have to deal with these feelings as we go through this period of sadness. Please give room for grace and find ways to show grace in the community and to the faculty. The faculty noted how this may be the most significant teaching opportunity of what it means to follow Jesus Christ in the midst of crisis.
It must be noted here that Ellis cannot officially offer suggestions on actions to take or opinions of the school. None of the following notes officially come from the voices of the Logsdon faculty. Some the notes regard logistics moving forward but even these are unconfirmed.
The BGCT scholarships should continue till the end of the final year. Every single student enrolled will be able to finish for accreditation purposes. It is unclear if there are any exceptions for upcoming students, however, it seems that new students will not be enrolled. There is an intention to keep every commitment till the last semester.
Again, these notes do not quote Dr Ellis directly and they may not and should not be used attached to his name in respect for his finishing up as dean. As long as he is dean, we must respect our love for him and show grace through what we share as a community.
The question was raised if the decision was made with more than finances in mind. The reality of HSU’s financial struggles was discussed and the decision to close does have some basis with this. However, the loss of the endowment is not much overall in the budget of HSU. The school only saves some money by closing Logsdon. Past criticisms of Logsdon were discussed but cannot be officially named as reasons for the closure.
Moving forward, it is important to communicate as faithful followers of Christ. Our job is to be the presence of Christ.
Students expressed that the communication in the public statement made by HSU was not reflective of valuing the faculty or students. Students and alumni also expressed appreciation for the professors and staff. The faculty also expressed their love and passion for getting to teach and to learn form the students.
The question was asked: can Logsdon stand on its own? The discussion noted that enrollment is trending in decline across the board. Free standing schools are closing or finding it hard to run. It will take a significant sum of money to explore this option.
Ellis closed by reflecting on Philippians 3:10-14 and with prayer.