Frank Yamada announces intention to retire in 2028

After nearly a decade of service as Executive Director of The Association of Theological Schools (ATS), Frank M. Yamada has shared his intention to retire on June 30, 2028.

Planning for the eventual shift has been underway with ATS boards and senior leadership over the past year to help ensure continuity and a smooth transition.

Since joining ATS in 2017, Yamada has guided the Association through a period of significant change within theological education, including demographic shifts, technological transformation, evolving regulatory requirements, financial and enrollment pressures, and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. During his tenure, ATS completed a comprehensive redevelopment of its accrediting Standards and launched major initiatives supporting innovation and sustainability among member schools, including the Pathways for Tomorrow initiative in partnership with Lilly Endowment Inc.

Reflecting on his service, Yamada expressed gratitude for the institutions, leaders, and partners who have shaped the ATS community.

"One of the greatest privileges of serving ATS has been witnessing how schools across theological traditions and contexts support one another, learn from one another, and work together in pursuit of common goals," Yamada said. "We are not competitors. We are co-creators of what comes next."

Yamada will continue to serve as Executive Director through June 2028 and remains actively engaged in advancing ATS's mission and supporting member schools during the transition period.

"Frank's leadership has helped guide ATS through a season of extraordinary challenge and opportunity," said Javier A. Viera, ATS Board of Directors president. "We are grateful for his service and look forward to continuing our work together as he concludes his service.”

Additional information regarding leadership transition planning will be shared as it becomes available.