John VerBerkmoes, Ph.D.

Dr. John VerBerkmoes has held various staff and administrative roles at Cornerstone University and Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. In over 30 years at Cornerstone, John has served as a resident director (1986-88), director of student financial aid (1988-91), director of admissions and enrollment services at GRTS (1991-98), associate dean at GRTS (1998-02) and academic dean at GRTS (2002-22). In 2009, he was promoted to vice president and academic dean, and in July 2015 his role expanded to become the chief academic officer for the university. With a strong history of humble and excellent leadership, VerBerkmoes also seeks to enhance the PGS community through efficient and effective systems and programs.

John is a double graduate of Cornerstone, completing a Bachelor of Religious Education (BRE) in 1985 followed by a Master of Theological Studies (MTS) at GRTS with an emphasis in Systematic Theology in 1988. Subsequently, he completed the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Higher Education Administration at Michigan State University in 2006. His research interest is focused in the areas of assessment and evaluation, particularly in assessment of student learning. He routinely teaches courses in organizational leadership and adult education at GRTS.

In addition to his work at Cornerstone, John serves member schools of The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) through workshop presentations and assessment coaching. He and his wife, Kelly, have two children, Jason and Leslie.