Western Theological Seminary Welcomes Vice President of Development

Western Theological Seminary is pleased to announce Dr. Brent LaVigne’s appointment as the new Vice President of Development. With over a decade of experience in Christian higher education and a proven track record of excellence in development and institutional advancement, LaVigne brings professional experience and passion for Western’s mission to this pivotal role.

“I am thrilled to have someone of Dr. LaVigne’s experience and caliber join our work here at Western Theological Seminary, adding to the momentum our team has built with donors. His love for Jesus, commitment to the Church, and passion for seeing women and men raised up for faithful Christian ministry are contagious,” said Dr. Felix Theonugraha, President of Western Theological Seminary.  “I am excited to see how Brent’s experience and insights will further strengthen the gifts already present on our Development team.”

LaVigne most recently served as Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Bethel University in Northern Indiana, where he led teams focused on development, marketing, grants, and public relations. During his leadership, his teams achieved successive record years in annual giving, received the largest individual family gift in the University’s history, and reestablished the marketing team’s critical collaborative role and capacity. 

“I am honored to join the work God is doing through the faculty, staff, and students of Western Theological Seminary,” says LaVigne.  “The President and faculty have set an important and compelling path ahead for Western. I’m excited to be part of and lead the team that works with churches, donor families, and foundations to bring together resources that realize and even surpass that vision.”

Born in Indiana, LaVigne grew up in a pastor’s home and is a product of Christian education, culminating in an earned PhD in Higher Education Policy and Administration from Oklahoma State University. His background includes missionary experience as an on-site coordinator in Swaziland, Africa, underscoring his dedication to Christian service and outreach. He and his wife, Reverend Michaele, have been married for 16 years and have two children, Austin and Galilee.

At Western Theological Seminary, LaVigne will lead development efforts to build on the momentum of the past years, continuing to form connections between donors, alumni, and students. 

“Our partners care deeply for the Seminary, which was so evident this past year when we celebrated one of the biggest years of giving in WTS history,” said Andy Bast, director of development. “I look forward to the ways God will work with and through Brent for the sake of the seminary and, ultimately, His church.”

Dr. LaVigne will join the WTS community on September 30.