Former Professor New Rector at FAU

On Oct. 25, 2026, Friedensau Adventist University formally installed Professor Gerald A. Klingbeil, DLitt, as its new rector during a formal ceremony held in the Friedensau Chapel. The University Senate had elected Klingbeil in Feb. 2026, with subsequent confirmation by the Board of Trustees. The leadership transition officially took effect on Oct. 1, 2026, marking the commencement of the 2026–2027 academic year. Klingbeil succeeds Professor Roland E. Fischer, PhD, who completed a ten-year tenure following the conclusion of his second regular term on Sept. 30, 2026. A recording of the official handover ceremony is accessible via YouTube.

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Born in Berlin in 1964, Klingbeil completed his theological studies in Austria, South Africa, and the United States, culminating in a Doctor of Letters degree from the University of Stellenbosch. His academic career includes appointments as professor of Old Testament at both the Universidad Peruana Unión in Peru and the Universidad Adventista del Plata in Argentina, followed by his role as dean of the Theological Seminary at the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies in the Philippines. From 2009 onward, he served as associate editor of the international publications Adventist Review and Adventist World while holding a professorship in Old Testament and Ancient Near Eastern Studies at the Andrews University Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary. In 2023, he returned to Germany to assume the position of Chief Financial Officer of the Hanseatic Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. His scholarly portfolio encompasses extensive international publications, research institute memberships, and academic advisory board roles. Further information is available through the university directory.

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