When a premier college is filling a major vacancy, they always say they will have a far-reaching search. But when Trinity College, Melbourne needed a new Dean of their Theological School they actually did, reaching half-way around the world to Sudbury, Ontario, Canada, choosing The Rev. Dr. Robert (“Bob”) Derrenbacker, Vice-Chancellor since 2009 of one of their sister Anglican colleges, Thorneloe University. Dr. Derrenbacker, CUAC Board Chair since 2014, will be taking up his new responsibilities starting January 1, 2019. Trinity College is one of the leading CUAC schools in the Oceana Chapter, comprising Australia and New Zealand.

Dr. Ken Hinchcliff, Warden of Trinity College, states the following: “Trinity is privileged to have an Anglican Theological scholar and leader of Bob's standing join the College, and the University of Divinity, at this important time in the School's history. Bob's appointment reflects the international standing of the School and the College. I am delighted that Bob and his wife Cindy have chosen to join us at Trinity."

Jamie Callaway, General Secretary of the Colleges & Universities of the Anglican Communion (CUAC), the network of 160 Anglican schools on five continents said, “Congratulations to Trinity College Melbourne and to Bob for this bold appointment. Global connections like this demonstrate the power of the worldwide Anglican Communion.  It is a stunning example of the Anglican university network providing a talented bench of experienced leadership.”

Dr. Derrenbacker will continue in his role as CUAC Board Chair through the 2020 Triennial in London, United Kingdom. He will also serve as the Oceana Chapter Convener on the CUAC Board when he begins his new role at Trinity College, taking over from Dr. Damian Powell, Principal at Janet Clarke Hall in Melbourne. Bob noted: ”I am thrilled that my new position keeps me in the CUAC orbit and also allows me to stay on as Chair of the Board of Trustees, work that I fully enjoy. I look forward to learning more about our Oceana member schools when I arrive in Australia in the New Year.”

A link to Trinity College’s announcement of this new appointment may be found here.

For more information, please contact the Rev. Dr. Robert Derrenbacker at [email protected].