Hoxie Schol assumed her term on July 1
August 2026 – Drew University is pleased to appoint the Rev. Dr. Meredith Hoxie Schol to lead Drew Theological School, effective July 1.
Hoxie Schol joined Drew in 2018 as Director of Doctoral Studies and Assistant Teaching Professor of Religious Education and Leadership. Under her leadership, Drew’s Doctor of Ministry (DMin) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs have experienced significant curricular enhancements. Most recently, she led the redesign of Drew’s Courageous Leadership DMin, enhancing Drew’s signature DMin cohort, rooted in the University’s mission, to strengthen Drew’s commitment to equip experienced religious leaders who are responding courageously to the urgent demand of ministry today. Hoxie Schol will also serve as Associate Dean of Theological and Professional Education for Drew University and report to the University’s Dean of the Faculty and Chief Academic Officer Ryan Hinrichs.
“The Rev. Dr. Meredith Hoxie Schol’s experience leading the Theological School’s doctoral programs has demonstrated her unwavering commitment to academic excellence and student success,” said Drew University President Hilary L. Link, PhD. “Her vision, experience, and dedication make her the ideal person to lead the school into its next chapter of growth and innovation.”
Dean Hoxie Schol succeeds the Rev. Dr. Edwin David Aponte, who recently completed his term as Dean of the Theological School, a position he has held since 2022. Following a sabbatical during the 2026-27 academic year, Aponte will return to the Theological School faculty as the James W. Pearsall Professor of Religion and Culture.
“I want to thank the Rev. Dr. Edwin David Aponte for his dedicated service in his role as Dean for the past four years,” said Link. “He successfully completed the reaccreditation process with The Association of Theological Schools (ATS), has led numerous initiatives across the University, successfully applied for and received a $1M Lily Endowment Grant, and has initiated other pursuits with the Lily Foundation to the benefit of Theological School students, faculty, and staff. We are grateful to Ed for his leadership and look forward to welcoming him back to the classroom.”
Prior to joining Drew, Hoxie Schol served as Director of Communication and Research at The Connectional Table of The United Methodist Church and taught as an adjunct professor at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary.
In addition to her roles at Drew, she most recently served as President of the Association for Doctor of Ministry Education (ADME), and as Treasurer and Executive Board member of the Council on Graduate Studies in Religion. She has also held membership in the American Academy of Religion, and the Religious Education Association.
Hoxie Schol holds a PhD in Christian Education and Congregational Studies from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, a Master of Divinity from Boston University School of Theology, and a bachelor degree from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.
“Drew Theological School’s commitments to justice and courageous leadership have always inspired me,” said Hoxie Schol. “As the Director of Doctoral Studies I sought to ensure these values were reflected in our transdisciplinary doctoral programs. And in this new leadership role, I am honored to advance the mission and values of the Theological School as we prepare and support the next generation of global faith leaders.”
Hoxie Schol is an ordained Deacon in full connection in the North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church. Her research and teaching focus on emancipatory pedagogy, practical theology, leadership, adult learning and faith formation, contextual learning/field education, and Wesleyan Theology, in addition to her experience teaching polity of The United Methodist Church.
Hoxie Schol resides in Madison, New Jersey, with her husband, the Rev. Mark Schol, lead pastor of The United Methodist Church in Madison. Their two daughters attend Madison public schools, and enjoy biking and exploring Drew’s campus and the surrounding community.
