Each year at the Annual Meeting, the Association for Biblical Higher Education recognizes an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in advancing and assuring quality biblical higher education.
This year, the Board has acted to confer the Biblical Higher Education Award upon one of its longest serving, most institutionally effective, and spiritually influential leaders. Dr. Daniel Anderson began his service at Appalachian Bible College 40 years ago in 1978, where he initially held roles ranging from Registrar, Instructor in Bible and History, Dean of Students and Assistant to the President. Upon his inauguration in 1983, he became only the second president of the College since its founding in 1950.
Dr. Anderson is a graduate of not one, but two ABHE member institutions. After achieving his three-year Bible/Theology diploma at what was then Appalachian Bible Institute, he completed undergraduate studies at Faith Baptist Bible College. He has served on ABHE accreditation teams and for 18 years in official ABHE leadership capacities on the Commission on Accreditation and Board of Directors, including a term as the Association’s President (board chair). He has also represented ABC and ABHE as a member of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities Board.
During his presidency, the College has funded and completed a comprehensive campus development plan, earned regional accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission, achieved a significant enrollment increase, and implemented a graduate studies program.
In 2013, Dr. Anderson authored the book, Biblical Slave Leadership, which explores the high and holy calling of the servant of God. The passion of Dr. Anderson’s life and ministry has centered upon nurturing servants for the fields of the world through both modeling and teaching. All who know him readily testify that he embodies ABC’s motto, Because Life is for Service.
Congratulations to Dr. Dan Anderson for this high honor!
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