Full-time chaplain position put on hold

By: Jalen Cliatt, staff writer

Lebanon Valley College has been without a permanent chaplain since the departure of Rev. Dr. Paul “Chaps” Fullmer in June.

Fullmer bid his farewell to LVC and his position as the campus chaplain to support his parents in San Francisco; he served the College for 12 years and acted as the director of service and volunteerism.

The search for a replacement began in the summer, yet the full-time chaplain position has remained vacant, and at this time, is no longer listed on LVC’s employment page.

Dr. Matthew Sayers, assistant professor of religion and philosophy, served as a member of the search committee. He shed some light on the chaplain search.

“It was not a lack of qualifications or interest,” Sayers said.

Sayers said more than 70 applicants applied for the position of chaplain; five applicants were called to do a phone interview and three declined because of salary requirements. A second round of phone interviews resulted in four out of five declines because of salary. No job offers were ever made.

“What the search committee learned from the office of human resources was that the candidates’ expectations for the salary was the most serious impediment to landing a qualified chaplain,” Dr. Jeff Robbins, assistant professor of religion and philosophy and who also served on the search committee, said. “When an institution of higher learning such as LVC is making such a high profile hire, it is extremely important that this person be fully vetted in terms of qualifications and credentials. Even more so considering that the need to work with a diverse population is so integral to the job.”

Todd Snovel, assistant dean of student engagement and inclusion, said that the search was put on hold while the College reconsiders and reconfigures the position. Until then, LVC has partnered with the United Methodist Church. Pastor Dan Lebo, from Annville UMC, has accepted a position as a part-time chaplain and spiritual counselor for the College.

Greg Krikorian, vice president of student affairs and dean of students, said Lebo will start in early November and provide assistance through the spring term.

Krikorian also said it was likely the full-time position will be posted in early spring. Natalia Smith will continue to provide support to spiritual life activities, while new hire Jen Liedtka will oversee the volunteerism and service duties for the campus.