Craig Williford announced today that he will not renew his five-year contract as president of Trinity International University (TIU), but instead will take a sabbatical next year before his contract ends on June 30, 2014.

“The vision I’ve promoted these past four years, I believe, has poised Trinity for an exciting future,” Williford said in a press release. “And that vision doesn’t hinge on the presence of one person. I’m praying that Trinity’s new leader will be ready to build upon the progress and strong foundation we’ve laid down.”

Williford hopes to move closer to family in Colorado and seek out new opportunities for ministry there, according to the release.

During Williford's tenure, TIU launched an ambitious strategic plan, completed its largest capital campaign (raising $21 million), received its largest single donation ($30 million), renovated its classrooms and library, added five endowed chairs, and launched the Oikonomia Network.

TIU will post ongoing updates here.

CT noted when Williford left Denver Seminary (where he served as president) in 2009 to come to TIU. (He was replaced by Gordon MacDonald.) CT also regularly notes TIU, especially its Center for Bioethics and Human Dignity, as well as Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS). TIU hosts the Carl F.H. Henry Center for Theological Understanding, named for the man who birthed evangelicalism, and TEDS hosts the Jonathan Edwards Center, named for the man regarded by many as America's foremost theologian.

CT has also regularly covered the Evangelical Free Church of America, which operates TIU.