Dr. Joy J. Moore, professor of Biblical Preaching at Luther Seminary, has been named president of Northern Seminary in Lisle, IL.

Dr. Moore has taught at Luther Seminary since 2019 and from 2020 to 2022 served as Vice President of Academic Affairs and Academic Dean. For the past five years, Moore has co-hosted the Working Preacher podcasts “Sermon Brainwave” and “I Love to Tell the Story” (Narrative Lectionary).

A native of Chicago, Illinois, Moore’s desire to teach led her to earn a B.A. in Education and Mathematics from National-Louis University in 1982 and an M.Div. from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in 1989. In 2007, she earned a Ph.D. in Practical Theology from Brunel University/London School of Theology.

“Dr. Moore’s commitment to theological education and her experience across a variety of ministry contexts has brought a life-giving vibrancy to our faculty and profoundly impacted how we educate leaders for the church,” said Rolf Jacobson, Dean of the Faculty at Luther Seminary. “We will deeply miss Dr. Moore, but we are delighted that she has this opportunity to lead Northern Seminary into a bright future.”

Dr. Moore expressed appreciation for her time at Luther Seminary. “As I look forward to this new opportunity, I will miss the connections and community at Luther. I will particularly miss being a part of the podcasts and the teamwork of FaithLead Academy. Being a part of these teams has provided great insight into how teams work and I look forward to sharing from what I have learned.”

As an “ecclesial storyteller,” Moore is celebrated for weaving biblically grounded narratives that address contemporary cultural issues and foster community formation. A cross-cultural minister who has served urban, rural, and suburban congregations, Moore is known for summoning communities to practices of hope, hospitality, and honesty.

“As a biblical theologian, gifted storyteller, and visionary leader, Dr. Moore brings wisdom, fidelity to God’s word, and a passion for the gospel that will help her lead the Northern Seminary Community into a future in which theological education faces many challenges while also having many opportunities open before it,” said Robin Steinke, president of Luther Seminary.

Prior to coming to Luther Seminary, she established the William E. Pannell Center for African American Church Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, CA; served as Associate Dean for Lifelong Learning at Duke Divinity School; director of Student Life at Asbury Theological Seminary; and chaplain and director of Church Relations at Adrian College. She has held pastorates in the Michigan Area of the United Methodist Church and written for Sojourners magazine, Christian Century, Good News magazine, and Working Preacher.

Moore said, “I am deeply honored to join Northern Seminary, a place with a rich legacy of Spirit-led innovation and multi-denominational learning. Northern’s commitment to biblical and theological integrity is a beacon in today’s world, forming students who are not only resilient and mature but truly joyful in their calling. I am excited to step into this community and help equip a new generation to lead the church and engage the world with wisdom and grace.”

Moore officially begins as president of Northern Seminary on December 1, 2024. She succeeds Interim President Dr. Karen Walker Freeburg. Alongside her role as President, Dr. Moore will also serve as Professor of Homiletics.