Date: August 29, 2025
Some moments in ministry are beautifully bittersweet—filled with both joy and sadness. I experienced such a moment last week, when Dr. Lisa Kimball, during our regular one-on-one, shared her intention to retire from Virginia Theological Seminary as of July 31, 2026. After prayerful discernment, Lisa has decided her time as a faculty member is drawing to a close.
Dr. Kimball’s legacy at Virginia Theological Seminary is profound. Each morning, she can be found faithfully in chapel, her presence a quiet testament to her dedication. Renowned as an extraordinary teacher, she is also beloved as a supervisor for Master’s theses and doctoral projects—gentle, pastoral, and fully present to anyone feeling worried or alone. Her service to the wider church has been extraordinary – countless diocesan conventions have benefited from her wisdom.
Her leadership of the Lifelong Learning team and her decade of visionary work in grant-funded programming have transformed VTS. Lisa’s impact is measured not only by the grants she secured, but by the creative and lasting ministry these projects have made possible—from Baptized for Life to Roots and Wings, she has helped shape the future of the Church. These endeavors continue to bless our community.
Now Lisa does not want a long goodbye; so this is simply an announcement of a planned retirement in a year’s time. She will enjoy the fall sabbatical and in the Spring appropriate celebrations of her service will occur. But for now: Lisa, you have been remarkable, and VTS will forever be grateful for your wisdom, compassion, and tireless service.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and the President of The General Theological Seminary.