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Historical Milestones
2009
- The Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA) conducts an evaluation visit and reaffirms approval of the Seminary’s membership in ECFA.
2008
- Phoenix Seminary celebrates 20 years of graduate theological education in Arizona.
- The Center for Women with Vision opens its doors.
2007
- The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) renews the professional accreditation of the Phoenix Seminary for 10 years.
- Phoenix Seminary becomes a Candidate for regional accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), an affiliate of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).
- Dr. W. Bingham Hunter joins Phoenix Seminary as the first full-time Academic Dean.
2006
- Dr. Darryl DelHousaye becomes Phoenix Seminary’s full-time President.
2005
- Phoenix Seminary purchases a building at 4222 East Thomas Road, providing approximately 24,000 square feet for classrooms, Library, offices, a Chapel, and the Center for Women with Vision. The Seminary leases the remaining 66,000 square feet to other tenants.
2003
- Phoenix Seminary launches a cooperative Master of Arts in Professional Counseling program with Ottawa University.
2002
- Phoenix Seminary is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS).
2000
- Phoenix Seminary moves its campus to a building on North Scottsdale Road, providing the Seminary 14,200 feet of space.
1998
- The Master of Arts in Biblical Leadership program is added to the curriculum.
1997
- Dr. John Vawter resigns as President of Phoenix Seminary to assume the senior pastorate of Bethany Community Church in Tempe, Arizona.
- Dr. Darryl DelHousaye, Senior Pastor of Scottsdale Bible Church, is appointed President.
1996
- Phoenix Seminary expands space for offices, classrooms, a chapel and a library at Scottsdale Bible Church.
1995
- Dr. John Vawter, former President of Western Seminary, becomes the first President of Phoenix Seminary.
1994
- Phoenix Seminary became an independent seminary. Rick Efird, a local pastor, is appointed as interim President of Phoenix Seminary.
1990
- A proposal is made to Western Conservative Baptist Seminary to allow Western Seminary Phoenix more autonomy–ultimately leading to total independence.
1988
- The first classes are held on August 28, 1988 at Grace Community Church and Scottsdale Bible Church. 68 students enroll in two degree programs: Master of Divinity and Master of Christian Leadership.
- Dr. Earl Radmacher relocates to Phoenix to administer the seminary program in Phoenix and initial faculty members are hired. Western Seminary Phoenix, a branch campus of Western Conservative Baptist Seminary, is launched. The Seminary office opens at Scottsdale Bible Church.
1987
- A decision is made to enter into a partnership with Western Conservative Baptist Seminary to establish a local seminary in Phoenix.
- First meeting of pastors and leaders with Dr. Earl Radmacher, President of Western Conservative Baptist Seminary, to consider a full-time seminary in metro-Phoenix.