Category: News
Dr. David May Announces Retirement
Dr. David May, professor of New Testament, Landreneau Guillory Chair of Biblical Studies, and director of the Master of Arts (Theological Studies) program will retire from the faculty at the end of the 2023-2024 academic year.
Dr. May has taught at Central since 1994 after having served as visiting professor of New Testament (1991-94) at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and the Baptist Chair of Bible (1987-1993) at University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, Missouri.
“It is difficult to quantify the influence David May has had on the lives and ministry of hundreds connected to Central Seminary,” said Kathy Maxwell, vice president for academic affairs and dean of the faculty. “As a professor, David has guided and inspired students’ transformative work inside and outside the classroom. As a friend and colleague, he has encouraged and challenged us to pursue Central’s mission with faithful tenacity.”
Dr. May wrote of his Central experience, “What has made this a stimulating place of learning and exploration for me are the dedicated colleagues with whom I teach and the students who populate my classes. Students especially provide renewing energy for my vocation of teaching the New Testament. My primary goal in teaching is to instill in students an excitement and wonder of the New Testament. To this end, my classes attempt to encourage the curiosity of students. A constant mantra for my teaching is for students to read closely, carefully, and pay attention to the details of the text.”
In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Dr. May has published numerous books and articles, including Preaching Matthew: Interpretation and Proclamation, published by Chalice Press (2007) and co-written with Mike Graves, Revelation: Weaving a Tapestry of Hope published by Smyth & Helwys (2001), and several articles in the journal Review & Expositor. He has also given countless presentations and has been active in professional societies with membership in the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) and service on the Editorial Board of Review & Expositor. Because of his great interest in the biblical world of the first century, he has led numerous study tours to archaeological sites in Israel, Greece, and Turkey.
During his time at Central, Dr. May earned tenure and was promoted to full professor. He also provided a long and distinguished service as faculty marshal at commencement, faculty representative to the board, chair of commencement committee, the curriculum review committee, academic team, faculty senate, and more. Dr. May was also the first to direct Central’s online education program.
“For thirty years, David May has faithfully served Central Seminary. His excellent classroom teaching, his strong leadership as a faculty member, and his thoughtful stewardship of his gifts and knowledge have enhanced our community, strengthened our institutional standing, and provided high quality theological education for hundreds, if not thousands, of students.” said Pamela R. Durso, president. “With grateful hearts, we celebrate his contributions to Central and his impact on students and alums across the United States and around the world.”
In honor of his service, Central will host “An Evening with Dr. David May” on April 16 over Zoom. All students, alumni, current and former staff and faculty, and friends of Central are welcome. Please pre-register here. The Board of Directors will also host a private celebration service in his honor in May 2024 prior to commencement.
Dr. May’s tenure will officially conclude on July 31, 2024.