Oct 10, 2024

Dordt University's Center for Christian Education announces newest senior fellow

Tia Gaines, Executive Director of UnifiEd, has been appointed as the newest Senior Fellow at Dordt University's Center for Christian Education (CACE).

The Center for Christian Education (CACE) at Dordt University has announced Tia Gaines as their newest Senior Fellow. In this role, Gaines will be involved in CACE’s roadmap strategies and overall growth and goals to advance Christian education. She will also regularly contribute to the CACE blog.

Gaines is the Executive Director of UnifiEd, a Center for Hope and Unity in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. She also founded the Equity in Action Visiting Scholars program at the University of Pennsylvania, where she currently serves as the Associate Director of Social Equity and Community. Additionally, Gaines serves on the Board of Trustees for the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and the Board of Trustees for B2THEWORLD, an organization devoted to serving students impacted by war. Gaines holds an M.Ed. from Western University and received her bachelor’s degree from Cairn University.

To be considered for a senior fellow role at CACE, individuals must be “committed to CACE’s mission to network faith-based schools, to promote innovative practices, and to develop school leaders,” says Dr. Timothy Van Soelen, executive director of CACE. According to Van Soelen, senior fellows also offer “expertise in one or more of CACE’s following work pillars: strategic road mapping, leadership consulting, executive search & leadership coaching, Teaching for Transformation, and school data/market research."

Gaines offers extensive experience in Christian education, spanning over 20 years. She has taught internationally and in the suburban and urban context. Additionally, Gaines has developed versatile curriculum and other resources for teachers.

“Tia brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to excellent, faith-based education,” says Van Soelen. “With a background that includes consulting, speaking, writing, and conference organizing, she has devoted herself to advocating for diversity, unity, and belonging within Christian education.”

About Dordt University

As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Dordt University equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Dordt is a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by the Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.


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