Hannibal-LaGrange University (HLGU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Joseph David Garner III as Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA). Dr. Garner brings a wealth of experience in Christian higher education, academic leadership, and pastoral ministry to his new role.
Dr. Garner has served at HLGU since 2021 as Registrar and Assistant Professor of History and Christian Studies. In that capacity, he has provided leadership in academic assessment, curriculum development, faculty support, accreditation compliance, and institutional reporting. He has also played a key role in academic initiatives including the comprehensive rewrite of the university’s degree programs and oversight of dual and early enrollment partnerships.
“We are thrilled to have Dr. Garner step into this important leadership role,” said Dr. Robert Matz, President of Hannibal-LaGrange University. “His deep commitment to academic excellence, his pastoral heart, and his thorough understanding of HLGU’s mission make him the ideal person to lead our academic programs into the future.”
Dr. Garner earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Theological Studies from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2024, where his dissertation explored the public theology of E.Y. Mullins. He also holds a Master of Theology from Midwestern, a Master of Divinity with Biblical Languages from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of General Studies from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. His research and teaching interests include church history, Baptist history, theology, and the intersection of faith and culture.
In addition to his work at HLGU, Dr. Garner has taught for Spurgeon College and Leavell College of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He is an active member of the Evangelical Theological Society and serves on the editorial board for Hannover Press. His scholarly work has appeared in the Midwestern Journal of Theology.
Before joining HLGU, Dr. Garner served in a variety of ministry and academic roles, including as Executive Pastor at Christ Church of Acadiana in Lafayette, Louisiana, and as an administrator and teacher at Christ Church Academy.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve Hannibal-LaGrange University in this capacity,” said Dr. Garner. “HLGU’s commitment to Christ-centered education and its dedication to equipping students for all that the Lord has called them to, reflects values I hold dear. I look forward to working alongside our faculty and staff as we continue to strengthen our academic programs and serve our students with excellence.”