Student Life Division staff changes coming August 1

“We believe these changes will better position of staff to care for, minister to and mobilize our students as we seek to train God-called men and women to serve the Church and fulfill the Great Commission,” said Mark Liederbach, vice president for student services at SEBTS.

Missie Branch will be named director of graduate life along with her current position as assistant dean of students to women at SEBTS. Branch’s current role as assistant dean includes overseeing spiritual care, activities, events and outreach to women. Her additional responsibilities will include fostering a more robust campus community for graduate and advanced-level students through extracurricular activities. 

“I am so passionate about seeing our students have life-changing experiences while here on our campus,” said Branch. “Having the ability to add a more concentrated focus on our graduate students is vital.”

Jake Hatfield will be named director of college life, transitioning out of his role as director of student activities and discipleship. In his new role, Hatfield will continue to oversee the House System, the undergraduate housing and community life at The College at Southeastern. He will also oversee campus recreation and auxiliary ministries while creating initiatives to further develop college life.

“From early in our ministry, my wife and I have felt called to work with college students,” said Hatfield. “I’m thrilled to continue cultivating a vibrant community that equips students to give their lives for the cause of Christ, in the church, among the nations and in every aspect of society.”

Drew Ham will be named assistant dean of students to men along with his current position as assistant vice president of student life. In his additional role, Ham will incorporate discipleship for male students at SEBTS.

“As a Great Commission seminary, it would be unacceptable to simply talk about discipleship,” said Ham. “Therefore, we want to train God-called men and women to make disciples of all nations, tongues, and tribes.”

The Student Life Division at SEBTS seeks to provide ways for students to grow spiritually while building community on campus. This vital office on campus provides multiple avenues to engage in and out of the classroom while developing a love for God, the Church and the nations.