Dr. Barker served as President of Meadville Lombard from 2003 to 2019.
Dr. Lee Barker served as President and Professor of Ministry at Meadville Lombard Theological School from 2003 until his retirement in 2019. His presidency led to the creation of an innovative program of ministerial formation, the relocation of the campus to its 21st-century facility in downtown Chicago, the completion of several successful fundraising campaigns, and the development of the school’s “Global, Multifaith Classroom.” As a faculty member, Dr. Barker was a pioneer in preparing religious leaders for service in a post-denominational age. In 2019, in recognition of his gifts and accomplishments, the Meadville Lombard Board of Trustees honored him with the title of President Emeritus. In his retirement, Dr. Barker serves as an associate vice president with the Alford Group and provides consultation to nonprofit and higher education executives in the areas of leadership, strategic planning, board development, fundraising, and more.