Life Pacific University is pleased to share a series of thoughtful leadership appointments and organizational developments that reflect its ongoing commitment to academic excellence, institutional growth, and the formation of students for faithful service and leadership.
“Grateful for these exceptional leaders as they step into new roles at Life Pacific University, said Dr. Angie Richey, President of Life Pacific University. “Their proven expertise, integrity, humility, and deep commitment to students reflect the heart of our transformational mission. With great expectation, we look forward to all that God will do through their leadership.”
In response to the continued growth of LPU’s online programs, which in recent years have surpassed on-campus enrollment, the university is establishing the LPU Online Office. This new office represents a meaningful investment in the future of digital education, with a focus on enriching the student learning experience, strengthening pedagogical practices, and ensuring the highest standards in instructional design and academic support.
Dr. Dorothy Kropf
Dr. Dorothy Kropf has been appointed to lead this initiative as Dean of Online Instruction. In this expanded role, she will oversee all Online Support Specialists and guide faculty quality assurance processes for online courses. Dr. Kropf’s leadership has already contributed significantly to the strength of LPU’s online offerings, and her vision will continue to shape the university’s approach to innovative and effective teaching in the digital environment.
“Dr. Kropf has used her expertise to enrich our online programs and develop support systems that have bolstered student success,” said Dr. Carissa Hawksworth, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences. “We are thrilled to have her expand her leadership and expertise into new arenas, ensuring that each online program will have the same level of quality and support for both students and faculty!”
Dr. Carissa Hawksworth
Dr. Carissa Hawksworth will also expand her service to the university through a new role supporting the Office of the Provost in administrative leadership for STM programs. In recognition of these added responsibilities and her broader contribution to cross-school collaboration, she has been appointed Assistant Provost, a title that reflects both the scope and significance of her work in academic administration. Dr. Hawksworth will continue to serve concurrently as Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, where her
leadership has contributed meaningfully to the university’s academic strength and mission.
“Carissa Hawksworth’s appointment as Assistant Provost is well deserved and acknowledges the great work she has accomplished since becoming the Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences including new program development and promoting rigorous assessment of program quality while maintaining a significant teaching load, earning her doctorate, and continuing to produce wonderful plays each term,” said Brian Tomhave, Dean of Institutional Effectiveness. “She continues to lead faculty in understanding higher education, as well as improving their teaching and student learning. She is loved and respected by her students and fellow faculty and staff.”
Dr. Ken Bringas
As part of broader structural developments and in alignment with the standards of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS), LPU is also formalizing its seminary as a distinct, embedded entity within the university. This step provides greater clarity and support for the seminary’s mission and leadership, while positioning it for continued academic rigor and accreditation advancement.
In conjunction with this transition, Dr. Ken Bringas has been appointed Dean of Life Pacific Seminary. He will provide academic and spiritual leadership for all seminary programs and faculty, serving under the Office of the Provost and representing the seminary at the university’s highest academic levels. The university expresses deep gratitude for Dr. Bringas’ faithful service, scholarly commitment, and forward-looking vision.
Dr. Marcus Robinson
LPU is also pleased to welcome Dr. Marcus Robinson to the full-time faculty as Chair of Biblical Theology & Ministry and Chief Diversity Officer. This integrated role reflects the university’s desire to hold together theological depth and a sustained commitment to
cultivating a diverse and Christ-centered academic community.
“I am so excited for Dr. Ken Bringas as he moves into the role of Dean of Life Pacific Seminary,” said Dr. Jeff Tolle, Dean of the School of Theology and Ministry. “From receiving the award for Faculty of the Year, to his elevated role in LPU, there is a clear pattern of achievement in his teaching and his leadership. His clear focus, pastoral heart, and exemplary leadership are all incredible qualities that have led to this transition. Well done Ken!
“In the years that I have known Dr. Marcus Robinson, he has served our LPU students and community with care, integrity and wisdom,” said Tolle. “As he has continued to advance in both ministry and education, he has built a set of skills that will serve him well as he steps into the role of Chair of the Biblical Theology & Ministry program at LPU. I know that he will be an incredible blessing to both students and the rest of the team in the School of Theology & Ministry”.
Together, these appointments mark an important moment in the life of the university. They underscore LPU’s dedication to cultivating academic excellence, fostering meaningful community, and preparing students to serve with wisdom, integrity, and theological clarity
in a rapidly changing world.
