Dallas Willard Endowed Chair - Friends University

Friends University is proud to announce the Dallas Willard Chair in Christian Spiritual Formation

Friends University, a Christian University of Quaker heritage, is excited to announce this new chair that will provide excellence and continuity in the education and training of Christian Spiritual Formation. The endowed chair is named in recognition of the significant role Dallas Willard and his teachings played in the development of the Apprentice Institute and the Christian Spiritual Formation programs at Friends University.

The first person named to hold the Willard Chair is Dr. James Bryan Smith, nationally recognized author and speaker, Associate Professor of Spiritual Formation at Friends University and Executive Director of the Apprentice Institute.

I remember meeting James Bryan Smith the first time – the young man who so thirstily embraced the mentoring of Richard Foster, and Dallas’s teaching. Recently I have listened, with pleasure and benefit, to his latest book, The Magnificent Story. I have smiled with recognition at the many quotes from Dallas, and am so thankful for the time that Dallas and Jim were able to spend together, and for the impact on Jim’s own spiritual formation.
Jane L. Willard

As a national leader in the promotion, education and study in Christian Spiritual Formation, something that is in the DNA of Friends University, we are so pleased to have the prestige and national recognition of an endowed chair in the name of Dallas Willard. We know this will enhance the academic excellence of the institution by attracting and retaining high-caliber faculty now and into the future. Additionally, the work of the Chair will advance the study of Christian Spiritual Formation to benefit not just our students, but the formation movement that is building across the country and world. It is very fitting that Dr. James Bryan Smith hold this position since he has been the architect of every Christian Spiritual Formation program at Friends University, including the Apprentice Institute.
Friends University President Amy Bragg Carey

Friends University Offers

Undergraduate second major in Christian Spiritual Formation

The Christian Spiritual Formation (CSF) program is designed as a second major or certificate for those wanting to learn how a heart and soul shaped by the Christian faith can greatly enhance their chosen career path.

Master of Arts in Christian Spiritual Formation and Leadership

A hybrid online/residency degree founded on the teachings of Dallas Willard designed for developing a framework for Christian spiritual formation, while building a stronger theological foundation.

Apprentice Experience at Friends University

A unique combination of lectures, soul-training exercises and group processing intended for anyone who wants to go deeper in their understanding of Christian spiritual formation. For more information visit apprenticeinstitute.org.