Meet our

faculty & Staff

John Swope

Dr. John Swope, PHD

Associate Dean of Academic Affairs; Assistant Professor of Practical Theology

As Dr. Swope pursued his MDiv at Ashland Theological Seminary, he realized this was a place he could thrive. Though he had no guarantees, he harbored a hope of coming back to serve and teach. God fulfilled that dream, and he is grateful. Dr. Swope offers insights gained through years of ministry experience.

Having worked in a wide range of institutions, Dr. Swope appreciates that the ATS family is made up of people who are authentic and transparent. He finds that his coworkers are well aware of their own failings and who trust God to shine through those limitations. This level of authenticity paves the way for grace to be freely extended to others and allows Christ to be the centerpiece of life.

In his spare time, Dr. Swope tackles adventure and fun. He loves to travel and comes alive anytime he stands on a peak overlooking a massive view of stone, trees, snow, and clouds. Since the day he married his lovely bride Catherine, Dr. Swope’s main hobby has been his family.

Publications

  • “Dr. Luke Keefer: Honoring a man who taught me to honor the past.” ATS Blog The Table, July 13, 2015. http://www.thetableblog.net/.
  • [Review] Cases on Online Learning Communities and Beyond: Investigations and Applications. Edited by Harrison Hao Yang and Shuyan Wang. Hershey, PA: IGI Global, 2013. “Teaching Theology & Religion” 17:2 (April) 2014: 176-77.