Marko Appointed Dean of Cornerstone’s School of Ministry, Media & the Arts and Seminary
Professor, pastor and author Dr. Jonathan Marko brings 15 years of Christian higher education teaching experience and administrative leadership to his newest roles as dean of the School of Ministry, Media & the Arts and dean of Cornerstone Theological Seminary at Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, Mich. These complement his ongoing responsibilities as associate vice president for academics.
As one of the foremost thinkers on John Locke’s theology, Marko’s academic research considers topics such as the comparison of theological and philosophical systems, Enlightenment era philosophers and theologians, and the philosophy of religion. His work has resulted in the publication of two books, over 15 journal articles and book chapters, and dozens of presentations and invited guest lectures. In 2023, Oxford University Press released Marko’s second book, “John Locke’s Theology: An Ecumenical, Irenic, and Controversial Project,” as part of the Oxford Studies in Historical Theology series.
“Dr. Marko is an excellent theologian who loves God, believes in the power of the Holy Spirit to change lives, and wants to find new ways for students to explore a seminary education while maintaining academic rigor and Christian orthodoxy,” stated Dr. Bradford Sample, vice president for academics and chief academic officer. “He will lead the seminary and School of Ministry, Media & the Arts toward continued spiritual growth and program expansion.”
Marko holds a Doctor of Philosophy in systematic theology from Calvin Theological Seminary, a Master of Divinity in theology from Ashland Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from The University of Akron. After working as an advanced materials engineer, he discerned a call to ministry in the church.
Recently, Marko completed a two-year project as a contributing associate editor to “The Jonathan Edwards Study Bible” for Thomas Nelson.
“I am excited to be involved in the training of church leaders and helpers in the creative arts who desire to glorify the LORD in everything they do,” shared Marko. “It is a great honor and privilege. I look forward to collaborating with West Michigan churches and ministries who love and await Christ, come under the authority of Scripture, have a heart for the lost, and will stand firm in the midst of secularity. I also look forward to equipping our graduates as Christian influencers in multimedia storytelling, visual and performing arts, and content creation by preparing them with the industry skills required to launch careers in a range of creative roles across many industries.”
As part of his university service, Marko has mentored students, oversaw Christian worldview integration in curricula and assisted with the implementation of an academic schools model. Marko also contributed to the collaborative writing process for three of the university’s foundational documents: the Christian Worldview statement, the Cornerstone Academic Vision statement, and the Cornerstone Beautiful Christian Community statement.
Ordained by Forest Hills Baptist Church, Marko is a licensed pastor in Michigan and Ohio and a member of the Evangelical Theological Society. He regularly assists with pulpit support for churches in West Michigan.
To learn more about market-aligned, in-demand degree programs available in Cornerstone’s the School of Ministry, Media & the Arts and ATS-accredited seminary, request information online or call the Admissions Office at 616.949.5300 to connect with an enrollment counselor.
