Criswell College Announces Dr. Curtis A. Woods as Vice President of Academic Affairs
Criswell College is pleased to announce the appointment of Curtis A. Woods, Ph.D., to the position of Vice President of Academic Affairs, effective January 1. Dr. Woods brings a wealth of experience in academics, ministry, and administration, making him an ideal leader for this pivotal role at the College.
Dr. Woods earned his doctorate from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, KY, where he also served as a professor. His extensive ministry experience spans roles as an executive and lead pastor in local churches across Texas and Kentucky. Additionally, he served for more than nine years as the Associate Executive Director of the Kentucky Baptist Convention, showcasing his expertise in leadership and collaboration within diverse ministry contexts.
Dr. Woods is no stranger to Criswell College, having taught the foundational CRIS100 “Roots of a Christian Scholar” course, which is integral to the Criswell 360° program. His leadership in this role has provided continuity for the institution, and his ideas and energy promise to usher in new opportunities for growth and academic excellence.
In his new role, Dr. Woods looks forward to fostering a culture where faculty not only deliver quality instruction but also remain deeply caring and supportive of each student’s overall success. By providing focused attention to students, Dr. Woods aims to continue equipping them to embody Criswell College’s student profile as Ambassadors, Cultivators, Peacemakers, Problem Solvers, and Professionals. His leadership seeks to nurture both academic excellence and personal development, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their callings in life and ministry.
Significantly, Dr. Woods’s appointment marks an important moment in Criswell College’s history as he becomes the first African-American to serve on the institution’s executive cabinet. This historic appointment aligns with the College’s commitment to serve a larger number of students from currently under-reached and under-represented populations. The college’s position is that greater diversity and representation can strengthen doctrinal and moral commitments by weaving together a greater variety of people committed to God and His Word.
President Barry Creamer shared his enthusiasm with the remark: “I have been seeking an opportunity for Dr. Woods to join Criswell College’s administration since 2019, when I learned of him from other academic and denominational leaders who saw what is true of him: that he is an experienced and credentialed academician and administrator, a brilliant scholar and thinker, and a committed follower of Christ. I anticipate eagerly what God will do through Dr. Woods to shape our faculty and students—indeed, the whole institution—to fulfill our mission.”
Criswell College invites the community to join in praying for God’s blessings on Dr. Woods’s leadership as he steps into this role. His tenure promises to be a transformative chapter in the College’s journey of serving Christ and His Kingdom.
