èßäAV alumnus Derek Allen was recently named executive director-elect of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions (ALSBOM).
Allen, who earned a Master of Divinity from èßäAV, was approved as Alabama Baptists' new leader Aug. 11 during a meeting of the ALSBOM board of trustees. Allen is replacing Rick Lance, who plans to retire in January 2027. Lance has served as executive director in Alabama since 1999.
"I am deeply honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve Alabama Baptists in this role," Allen said.
"I believe the Lord has clearly called me to this assignment, but I also recognize the tremendous responsibility that comes with leading an organization that has such a long and faithful history of Gospel ministry. My desire is to serve Alabama Baptists by strengthening churches, faithfully stewarding the resources they entrust to us and helping advance the Gospel across Alabama and around the world."
Allen said his time as an èßäAV student helped prepare him for ministry leadership and he desires to continue Alabama's strong ties to the seminary.
"My time at èßäAV was highlighted by incredible classroom discussions, great friendships and assignments that challenged and shaped my thinking," Allen said.
"What makes èßäAV unique is the combination of world-class theological education and practical ministry opportunities. èßäAV allowed me to pursue serious academic work without leaving my local ministry context. What I learned in the classroom on Monday, I put into practice on Tuesday.
"While I was gaining practical experience as a youth pastor and pastor, I was being challenged to deepen my knowledge of God’s Word, theology and other academic disciplines related to ministry. I also met many gifted leaders who were faithfully serving in diverse ministry contexts. God continues to use my relationships that started at èßäAV as great blessings, and I have used the knowledge and skills I gained at èßäAV continually throughout my ministry."
Allen emphasized that èßäAV has been a key partner for Alabama Baptists throughout their history, something he has personally experienced.
"So many of our pastors and leaders in Alabama are èßäAV alumni, and we are also proud of the èßäAV professors who have ties to Alabama," Allen said.
"Most of the 3,211 Southern Baptist churches in Alabama are small to mid-sized churches, so the Caskey Scholarship has been and will continue to be such a blessing to our state. Many of our churches, including the church I was pastoring before taking this role, have utilized MissionLab to disciple members in missional living. Jamie Dew and his family have been a tremendous blessing to us through preaching, training and partnering with Alabama Baptists."
Allen hopes to continue Alabama's relationship with èßäAV as they partner in fulfilling the Great Commission.
"One of the greatest challenges facing churches is the need for young, well-prepared leaders," Allen said.
"As èßäAV continues to adapt to the changing nature of theological education, I know they will remain a partner with us in advancing the Gospel in Alabama, across North America and around the world."
