Since its inception in 1947 the Samford Extension Division has been a forerunner in making theological education available to anyone who had a desire to learn. Over time, the extension division has had different names, different locations and thousands of students. Yet one consistency has been the level of quality instruction given to the participants. It is a great privilege to be the director of the Samford Extension Division (Ministry Training Institute) and I am excited about its future. As director it is my goal to continue the high level of excellence which has been a program distinctive for more than 75 years. In 2 Timothy 2:15 Paul wrote to a young church leader named Timothy, "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth." Every course, director and instructor serves to help students to achieve the command of this verse. The end result of our work is to prepare men and women to accurately handle the word of truth. I am glad that you have chosen to be a part of this wonderful program of academic excellence. May God bless our work together as the Kingdom of God is advanced and Christians are discipled.