Introducing Christian Lindbeck – NU’s Dean of the College of Ministry
Northwest University Welcomes Christian Lindbeck as Dean of the College of Ministry
Northwest University is pleased to announce the appointment of Christian Lindbeck as the new Dean of the College of Ministry, a role that brings together his commitment to the Church, extensive leadership experience, and deep roots within the Northwest University community. This appointment represents more than a professional milestone - it is a homecoming.
As a graduate of Northwest University and former university leader, Dean Lindbeck has invested in the development of students, churches, and ministry leaders. His return to NU reflects a continued dedication to our mission of preparing Spirit-filled leaders to serve Christ and impact the world.
A Leader Shaped by Ministry and Higher Education
Dean Lindbeck brings more than 30 years of experience in pastoral ministry, organizational leadership, and Christian higher education. His unique background spans the local church and the university setting, providing a strong foundation for leading the College of Ministry into its next chapter. Over the past three decades, Dean Lindbeck has served in a variety of influential ministry roles. He was the Lead Pastor at Hillcrest Church and most recently served as Executive Pastor for Locations and Kingdom Builders at Venture Church in Mill Creek, Washington.
Lindbeck earned degrees from Northwest University and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, where he completed both a Master of Theology and a Master of Divinity. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry in Strategic Leadership throughLiberty University.
In addition to attending NU as a student, Lindbeck previously served on NU’s leadership team as Vice President for Student Development along with Executive Director of Development and Alumni Services.
A Heart for Ministry Formation
Throughout his ministry career, Dean Lindbeck has been known for developing healthy leaders, building thriving teams, and creating environments where people can grow in their faith and calling. His leadership has consistently focused on integrating spiritual formation, practical ministry experience, and thoughtful leadership development.
Whether serving in the local church or higher education, Lindbeck has remained committed to preparing the next generation to faithfully serve the Church and the world.
Dean Lindbeck's passion for ministry education aligns closely with Northwest University's vision for the College of Ministry: cultivating leaders through rigorous academics, Spirit-filled formation, and meaningful ministry engagement.
His longstanding commitment to Northwest reflects a deep belief in the transformative power of Christian higher education and a passion for equipping students for lives of service, leadership, and ministry.
Looking Ahead
As Dean of the College of Ministry, Lindbeck will help guide the preparation of future pastors, missionaries, ministry leaders, and church innovators. His perspective and experience position him to strengthen Northwest University's commitment to excellence in ministry education.
Northwest University President Jeremy Johnson expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment: “Christian Lindbeck is uniquely equipped to lead our College of Ministry because he understands both the calling of the local church and the responsibility of Christian higher education. His experience, character, and vision align perfectly with our commitment to develop Spirit-filled leaders who will influence churches and communities around the world. We're excited to see him help shape Northwest University into the premier training ground for the next generation of ministers.”
Welcome Back to Northwest
Dean Lindbeck and his wife, Jen, live in Seattle and have two adult sons. As he returns to Northwest University in this new leadership role, he brings a wealth of experience, a heart for ministry, and a deep commitment to the university's mission.
The Northwest community looks forward to the impact his leadership will have on students, faculty, churches, and communities for years to come.
Learn more about the College of Ministry at https://www.northwestu.edu/college-ministry.