Beverly Gaventa moving to Baylor!

Big news in New Testament studies – Baylor University just announced that Beverly Gaventa has just been appointed “Distinguished Professor of New Testament” at Baylor beginning fall 2013.

I imagine this will be a bit of a “game-changer” in terms of doctoral study. Some students who had considered PhD work in NT at PTS will undoubtedly reconsider and imagine trading in their snow shovels for sunblock (Waco-TX style!). With scholars like Longenecker, Gaventa, and Todd Still (who is at Truett), Baylor would be a truly amazing place to study the letters of Paul.
The Baylor announcement offers a series of endorsements and congratulations from a variety of eminent scholars:

“Beverly Gaventa is a gracious and collegial conversation partner who will be a wonderful addition to the community of scholars at Baylor. I have known and valued Beverly as a colleague in the field for the past 30 years, and I hold her work in high regard. Her scholarly writings are consistently thoughtful, well-researched, balanced and illuminating. Beverly exudes poise, professionalism and dignity. Baylor University is to be congratulated on its good judgment in appointing Dr. Beverly Gaventa to the post of Distinguished Professor.”-Richard Hays, Dean and George Washington Ivey Professor of New Testament at Duke Divinity School

“Beverly Gaventa’s scholarly contributions are of the highest order. She has published significant work for the academy and wider church, especially in Acts and in Paul. She has participated regularly in scholarly exchange in the Society of Biblical Literature and Studiorum Novi Testamenti Societas and has long been a much sought-after lecturer. Clearly, Beverly will be a great asset in helping Baylor University achieve its goal to be a leading research university.”
-Joel B. Green, Professor of New Testament Interpretation & Associate Dean for the Center for Advanced Theological Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary

“Beverly Gaventa is an exceptional mentor, a widely published scholar, and a leader among American biblical scholars. Her appointment insures that Baylor will continue to move up in the ranks of the leading programs for biblical research in the country.”
-Alan Culpepper, Dean of Mercer University’s McAfee School of Theology

“The appointment of Beverly Gaventa brings to Baylor an internationally recognized New Testament scholar who is also a great teacher and engaged community member. Beverly has served as a mentor for innumerable students and budding New Testament scholars, and Baylor students will now be the beneficiaries of her many gifts. Her work on Paul sets high standards for clarity and theological acumen, and her scholarly perspectives now will enrich the intellectual conversations at Baylor. Congratulations to Baylor on a great appointment.”
-Gail O’Day, Dean and Professor of New Testament and Preaching at Wake Forest University School of Divinity