By Courtney Ingle
Wesley Biblical Seminary (WBS) in Ridgeland has appointed Andy Miller as its new president, marking a significant leadership change during a pivotal moment for the institution. Miller, who has served WBS for three years as academic dean, brings a wealth of experience in theological education and a deep commitment to the seminary’s mission.
Miller’s journey to Mississippi reflects both a professional and personal calling.
“I’m from Chicago, but my wife is from south Georgia, and we’ve spent most of our adult lives in the South,” he said. His ministry experience includes serving in Tampa, Florida, before moving to WBS.
“I love what God’s doing through this institution — who He’s called Wesley Biblical Seminary to be in this moment for the Christian church,” said Miller.
WBS is focused on the Wesleyan tradition. Miller emphasized that WBS has remained committed to “traditional orthodoxy, scriptural authority, and an emphasis on sanctification.” This commitment has played a critical role in the seminary’s recent growth, particularly with the formation of the Global Methodist Church.
Growth and challenges
In the past five years, WBS enrollment numbers have surged from 150 to more than 700 students. Much of this growth is attributed to the seminary’s alignment with the Global Methodist Church, which has attracted hundreds of pastors and students worldwide seeking theological education grounded in scripture.
While this growth is a blessing, it has brought challenges. There aren’t enough buildings and classrooms for everyone. “We’ve grown by making our curriculum accessible (online),” Miller explained.
However, the seminary remains committed to live, interactive learning sessions, even for global students. Miller said students can attend live classes in person or virtually, with recordings available for those in different time zones who must catch up later. This model ensures students stay engaged with professors and peers.
Looking ahead
As Miller settles into his new role, he is focused on listening to the communities that make up WBS — students, faculty, alums, and local churches. However, he already envisions a future where WBS continues to grow its student body while maintaining its core values.
One of Miller’s goals is to expand the seminary’s undergraduate program and offer dual enrollment opportunities for high-school students, particularly homeschoolers and students from Christian schools.
“We believe that there are churches around the world looking for exactly what WBS offers,” he said.
Miller is also passionate about ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent students from attending WBS. “I don’t want money to get in the way of someone called to ministry,” he said. Miller hopes to establish partnerships with denominations and individuals who can support students financially.
As Miller looks to the future, one thing is clear: Wesley Biblical Seminary is poised to continue its mission of preparing students for ministry with a solid foundation in biblical authority.
WBS will celebrate Miller’s official inauguration on October 10.
and her husband, Jeremy, live in Brandon and are members at Park Place Baptist Church in Pearl. They have a daughter, Taylor, and a son, Jacob. Courtney is a full-time homemaker and can be reached at courtneyingle89@gmail.com.