Scott Pace Inaugurated as Seventh President of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary

Scott Pace was officially installed as the seventh president of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina, on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. Pace, 51, succeeds Daniel Akin, who retired in July after serving as the institution's longest-tenured president for 21 years.

During his inaugural address, Pace emphasized that the seminary’s primary purpose is to serve the local church rather than replace it. He cautioned against an academic environment that might leave graduates "detached from reality," urging students to apply their theological education to practical, "working-class ministry."

Outlining his vision for the institution, Pace described his commitment to maintaining a "missional, spiritual, and biblical" focus. He affirmed his belief in the Bible as the inspired, inerrant, and sufficient authority for all of life. Pace stated that he intends for the seminary to equip students to defend, trust, and preach Scripture, ensuring that the Word of God remains the foundational standard for all areas of study.