Date: January 27, 2026
Yesterday, I decided that the focus needed to be on the extraordinary weather and the remarkable service of Facilities and Meriwether Godsey. That was exactly right. Today, however, please allow me a brief moment of personal privilege.
As you all know, I am returning from medical leave. I had surgery in early December and, on my doctor’s advice, was required to take at least six weeks to recover. The Board generously granted me permission to do so. Many prayed for me, and it was extraordinary. In those hard days after the surgery, I could sense the prayers; they were an energy that God used to support me in this season.
During that time, Senior Vice President Melody Knowles stepped in as the formal head of VTS and GTS. I am deeply grateful to her, and to the many others who carried responsibilities with such care and steadiness. This community was in excellent hands.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and President of The General Theological Seminary