CCBC Leadership & Legacy 

Introduction


The present leadership of Calvary Chapel Bible College receives its work with gratitude. Across many seasons, men and women embraced the vision, served the mission, and gave themselves so that students might be formed in Christ and grounded in His Word. Their labor, prayer, and sacrifice helped bring the college to where it stands today.

We honor this legacy with humility. What we have received, we now steward for the good of the Calvary Chapel family and for all whom the Lord will serve through this ministry, as we continue to prepare students for Spirit-filled life and ministry through the study of Scripture in Christ-centered community.

As an independent institution, Calvary Chapel Bible College carries this legacy forward in service to the wider Calvary Chapel movement and the global church.

The Founding Vision

Chuck Smith founded Calvary Chapel Bible College as an extension of the pastoral and teaching ministry the Lord had already established through the Calvary Chapel movement. His desire was simple and clear: that students would be rooted in the Word of God, grow in grace, and be prepared for lives of faithful service wherever the Lord might call.

The college stands as part of that continuing legacy, carrying forward the same confidence in Scripture and the same heart to serve Christ and His church.

MId 70s Chuck Smith teaching School of ministry

Presidents / Directors of the College

Justin Thomas, 2022-Present

Joel Wingo, 2020-2022

Andy Deane 2013-2020

Dave Shirley 2000-2013

Brad Lambert 1996-2000

Don Stewart 1995-1996

Larry Taylor 1990-1996

Rich Gosswiler 1987-1990

T. Thornton 1980-1986

Mark Foreman 1978-1980

Don McClure 1975-1979

From Church Ministry to Independent College

From 1975 to 2025, the senior pastors and elders of Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa provided prayer, spiritual encouragement, and care to the college community. As a ministry of the church, the college was sustained through generous and consistent support that allowed generations of students to be formed in Christ and grounded in His Word.

In 2025, Calvary Chapel Bible College became an independent institution, governed by its own Board of Directors and guided by its own mission and doctrinal commitments. This independence allows CCBC to serve the wider Calvary Chapel movement and the global church while remaining deeply grateful for the heritage received through its longstanding relationship with Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa.

Faithful Faculty and Staff

Beyond those listed above, the college has been strengthened by countless faculty, staff, and volunteers whose steady service has shaped the lives of students across generations. Their names may not appear on a timeline, but their faithfulness remains part of the foundation we gratefully inherit.

Current Board of Directors

Brian Brodersen, Chair

Jordan Taylor, Secretary & Treasurer

Luman Wing, Trustee

Renae DeBever, Trustee

Leona Karni, Trustee

David Shirley, Trustee

Brian Cambra, Trustee

Advisory Council

In order to remain connected to the churches we serve, the college is also strengthened by an Advisory Council of pastors from across the Calvary Chapel family. These leaders represent diverse regions and ministries and provide encouragement, perspective, and wisdom as we seek to serve the movement faithfully and well.

Brent Smith

Brent Smith

Riverside Calvary Chapel

Vancouver, BC

Brian Michaels

Brian Michaels

Springs Lighthouse

Colorado Springs, CO

Jimmy Schauerte

Jimmy Schauerte

Roots Church

Queens, NY

Nick Cady

Nick Cady

Whitefields Community Church

Longmont, CO

Robert Case

Robert Case

Calvary Chapel Eastside

Bellevue, WA

Terry Michaels

Terry Michaels

Forrest Ridge Calvary Chapel

Austin, TX