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Chief Academic Officer Dr. David Basinger to Retire After 45 Years at Roberts Wesleyan University and Northeastern Seminary
Chief Academic Officer Dr. David Basinger to Retire After 45 Years at Roberts Wesleyan University and Northeastern Seminary
On May 16th, the Roberts and Northeastern community gathered to honor Dr. David Basinger for 45 years of faithful service. As he prepares for retirement at the end of June, we reflect on his journey of enduring impact.
Championing Innovative Academic Initiatives
A true visionary, Dr. Basinger spearheaded the launch of transformative programs that opened doors for students such as the Bridge to Earning, Learning, and Living (BELL) program. The BELL program, which was started in 2010, is a federally approved program that allows students with intellectual disabilities to engage in the types of academic, social, and vocational activities that will enhance their personal lives and better prepare them to be engaged community members with gainful employment. The program has had over 60 graduates.
The Pathway to Teaching (PTT) also started in 2010. PTT is a program allowing urban Rochester school employees to earn their teaching certificates while working full-time. The program has had 274 graduates.
Reshaping the Academic Landscape
Dr. Basinger's impact extended to restructuring the university's organizational fabric. He streamlined ten academic divisions into two, eventually evolving into six focused schools from 2012 to 2015. Additionally, he transitioned decision-making from collective faculty meetings to the current Faculty Senate model in 2005, fostering efficient governance.
A Prolific Author
Dr. Basinger's bibliographic footprint spans 14 books he authored, co-authored, edited, or co-edited, including his latest groundbreaking work, "God and Human Genetic Engineering" (Cambridge, 2023). Furthermore, he has authored or co-authored an astonishing 100 journal articles and book chapters, cementing his status as an intellectual subject matter expert.
Heartfelt Gratitude for Invaluable Contributions
As Dr. Basinger embarks on new adventures in retirement, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for his invaluable contributions that have enriched countless lives. The Roberts Wesleyan and Northeastern Seminary community echoes the words of Isaiah 43:19, "Behold, I will do something new, now it will spring forth..." May his journey continue to blossom with wisdom and fulfillment. God bless you, Dr. Basinger, on this well-deserved retirement.
