Sam Locke Named Executive Director for Institutional Advancement

Bethany Theological Seminary has named Sam Locke as executive director of institutional advancement following a national search.  

Locke joins the Seminary from Indiana Legal Services, a nonprofit law firm based in Indianapolis that provides free legal services to low-income individuals, where he has served as director of development since 2016. He served the Presbyterian Church (USA) as national director for special offerings and direct response fundraising from 2008-2015. Locke also has a background as a consultant, assisting Hartford (Connecticut) Seminary (now known as Hartford International University for Religion and Peace) with a successful fundraising campaign. Earlier in his career, he worked for Blackbaud, Inc., an industry leader in customer relationship management technology. 

“We are thrilled to have Sam join us as the new leader of our institutional advancement team,” says President Jeff Carter. “During the interview process, Sam impressed us with his understanding of fundraising processes and his deep appreciation for the transformative potential of theological education. Sam understands both the art and science of fundraising, I know he will do a great job working with our donors and with colleagues at the Seminary to help us gain the support we need to flourish.” 

Originally from Connersville, Ind., Locke earned undergraduate degrees in education and political science from Indiana University and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Wyoming. He also earned a Master of Divinity degree from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis. 

“I’m excited for this opportunity to help Bethany flourish,” says Locke. “I look forward to learning more about the Seminary’s rich history from its alumni and friends and am eager to look for ways to make Bethany’s world-changing mission sustainable well into the future. Now more than ever our communities need leaders with the skills Bethany grows in its students, it is an honor to be part of President Carter’s team as it works to make theological education accessible to new and diverse audiences.” 

Locke’s first day in the office at Bethany will be May 2, 2022. In this role, he will be a member of the president’s leadership team and oversee the organization’s fundraising, alumni relations, communications, community relations, and marketing efforts.