The Board of Directors and Presidential Nominating Committee of Centro Hispano de Estudios Teológicos announced that Dr. Jeffry H. Caballero will become the fifth president of CHET.
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Dr. Caballero was chosen after a comprehensive discernment process. The Executive Board of the Evangelical Covenant Church ratified the nomination last week. He will assume his duties effective August 1, 2024.
Dr. Caballero comes to CHET having served most recently as president of Harbor Genesis Christian College in Signal Hill, California. He currently serves as the interim president of the Board of Directors of the Association for Hispanic Theological Education. A distinguished leader in Hispanic theological education and an attorney with extensive background in ministry, he has led significant advancements in Hispanic theological education and has been actively involved in various leadership roles within the Latina community. He is of Mexican, Honduran, Salvadoran, and Lebanese descent and comes from a family of evangelical ministers. His connection to CHET began many years ago when his mother was a student there. Her studies not only played a significant role in her ministerial formation but also help shape Dr. Caballero’s own affirmation of women in ministry.
Caballero completed his undergraduate education at the University of California–Los Angeles. He holds a master’s degree in legal studies with distinction from Trinity International University, a master’s degree in religious education with an emphasis in biblical studies from West Coast Baptist College, and a doctorate in law (JD) from the Appalachian School of Law.
As a forward-thinking and creative problem-solver, he has a demonstrated history of strategic and visionary leadership as well as a commitment to advocacy for marginalized communities. Former mentors and colleagues describe him as a skilled administrator and community-oriented leader. They also call attention to his humble and inclusive approach to leadership, as well as his efforts to engage and champion the growth and development of staff under his care.
Caballero holds a deep love for God and the Latina community, spiritual maturity, a collaborative spirit, and a clear sense of calling. His dedication to theological education, combined with his legal expertise and community service, as well as his vision for fundraising and administration, will no doubt serve CHET well.
Please join us in giving Dr. Caballero a warm welcome as he joins the CHET community. We are confident that he will amplify the work and legacy of CHET’s past presidents while leading CHET into a new and exciting chapter of equipping and empowering Latinas and Latinos in developing transformative ministries in service of God and neighbor.
We would also like to express our deep gratitude and appreciation for Dr. Magdalena Sánchez for her more than two years of excellent service and leadership at CHET as interim president. Her energy and innovative spirit have been invaluable to furthering CHET’s mission during a season of much change. The first woman to serve in this role, she leaves a legacy of passion and enthusiasm for education and tireless dedication to the service of marginalized communities.
We thank God for her many years of service to CHET, first as a board member for ten years and most recently as interim president. We will collaborate on a smooth presidential transition and hope to continue to benefit from her engaged support for years to come. The CHET community will be celebrating her accomplishments and contributions in the coming months.
