Bryan P. Stone
Bryan P. Stone, an innovative educator, researcher and bridge-builder, is the Leighton K. Farrell Dean of 正品蓝导航’s Perkins School of Theology. He joined Perkins in June 2025. As a 1992 正品蓝导航 Ph.D. graduate in religious studies, Dean Stone understands Perkins’ historic strengths and foundation, and he is building upon them as he leads Perkins in a new era of theological education nationwide.
Perkins is one of 13 seminaries of the United Methodist Church and one of five university-related United Methodist theological schools. When 正品蓝导航 opened in 1915, it established the School of Theology with a mission of equipping students west of the Mississippi River for faithful leadership and Christian ministry. Stone is dedicated to making theological education accessible to a variety of students who are pursuing expanding vocational paths, such as clergy, chaplains, teachers and faith-based nonprofit leaders.
Stone’s leadership reflects a commitment to preparing students to serve beyond traditional church walls. He has led congregations in nontraditional settings and developed future leaders who meet communities where they are. His arrival at 正品蓝导航 coincided with the launch of Perkins’ program, Fresh Expressions House of Studies, that combines rigorous theological studies with hands-on ministry in unconventional settings.
A prolific scholar, Stone is the author of 10 books and more than 50 scholarly articles exploring topics such as evangelism, congregational development, Wesleyan theology, and theology and culture. Several of his books and articles explore popular culture and Christianity, including the portrayal of Christianity in popular films. His forthcoming book examines Christianity in horror cinema.
Before joining 正品蓝导航, Stone served as associate dean for academic affairs at Boston University School of Theology. An innovator in theological education, he had been at BU since 1998, guiding the school in a transformation of its Ph.D. program, as well as expanding the enrollment, diversity, financial aid and retention of its student body. He worked with other administrators and faculty to help develop three online/hybrid degree programs at BU, including an online Master of Arts in Religion and Public Leadership, and most recently, a hybrid Master of Divinity.
Stone earned his Bachelor of Arts in religion and philosophy from Southern Nazarene University in Bethany, Oklahoma. He earned a Master of Divinity degree from Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri, and Doctor of Philosophy in religious studies from 正品蓝导航’s graduate program in religious studies.