Left to right: Dr. Joseph Abraham, Teresa Abraham, Deborah Travis, Dr. Charles Travis, Dr. Jonathan G. Smith, Ivey Rose Smith, Amy Herring
Dr. Jonathan G. Smith Appointed President of Aidan University and the Logos Global Network
Longwood, FL – June 29, 2025
In a historic and heartfelt ceremony attended by more than 400 people, Dr. Charles “Chuck” Travis publicly stepped down from his long and faithful leadership of Aidan University and the Logos Global Network (LGN), appointing Dr. Jonathan G. Smith as his successor. Dr. Smith now assumes the role of President of both Aidan University and LGN. During the same service, Ivey Smith was ordained as a presbyter and installed as Executive Vice President and Chief Membership Officer of LGN, affirming her ongoing leadership and ministry in the Church. Ms. Amy Herring joins the team as Aidan’s Registrar and Student Liaison, along providing support with LGN’s member services and compliance.
Dr. Chuck Travis, along with his wife Deborah, founded Aidan University two decades ago to serve the body of Christ. The couple also founded Logos Global Network in 1986 to empower Christian leaders around the world. Following the transition, Dr. Travis will serve as Chancellor of Aidan University and Presiding Presbyter Emeritus, helping to expand its network of church-based schools and working closely with the Board of Regents to advance Aidan’s mission and vision.
This day also marked another significant milestone, as Dr. Smith graduated with his PhD in Theology, completing a major academic chapter that has informed his teaching, writing, and leadership.
Dr. Smith and Ivey bring a strong academic foundation to their new leadership roles. Dr. Smith holds multiple graduate degrees across Business, Philosophy, Theology, and Counseling. He earned his first doctorate in ministry from Knox Theological Seminary (2015), a Master of Theology from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary (2011), a Master of Arts in Christianity and Culture (2010), and a Master of Business Administration from Webster University (2005). Ivey holds a Bachelor of Science in Advertising from the University of Florida (2002) and earned a Master of Arts in Christianity and Culture from Knox Theological Seminary (2010).
“This moment represents far more than personal or professional advancement,” Dr. Smith said. “It is a holy calling. We believe God is entrusting us with a new vineyard—one we must tend with humility, vision, and faithfulness.”
The moment carried a deeper emotional weight for Dr. Smith as he reflected on personal loss.
“This year has been one of the hardest of my life. I lost both of my parents within two months of each other. After years of walking with them as both pastor and son, the loss has been staggering. Yet I know they would have been proud of this moment. I felt their presence with us even if unseen. We stand on their shoulders, and we carry forward their legacy with gratitude.”
Dr. Smith and Ivey have served faithfully in numerous roles across ministry, education, and missions. “We ask for your prayers,” Dr. Smith added. “We need wisdom, courage, and grace as we step into this new chapter.”As they step into these new positions, they remain committed to developing leaders, nurturing Gospel-centered communities, and equipping the next generation of Christian disciples.
“Every leadership transition is a chance to reimagine the future. Dr. Smith embodies the heart, wisdom, and courage this moment demands,” said Dr. Joseph L. Abraham, Dean of the School of Leadership at Aidan University.
As Executive Vice President and Chief Membership Officer, Ivey will focus on developing innovative communications platforms and strategies to strengthen engagement among LGN and Aidan’s alumni and students. With over 15 years of experience in non-profit higher education and association management having worked for several of the world’s largest professional and trade associations, she brings a passion for community, connection, and organizational development that will advance the impact of both institutions.
Joining the leadership team is Ms. Amy Herring, who will serve as Registrar and Student Liaison. Amy will support Ivey in LGN’s member services and compliance, while also assisting the student body in academic and administrative matters. She brings extensive business experience to LGN and Aidan, having served in a variety of sales and service roles, and currently serves as the mission chair for Community Methodist Church, where she has been a member since her youth.
Together, this new leadership team is poised to carry forward the founding vision of Aidan University and Logos Global Network—serving the Church, advancing the Gospel, and equipping leaders for Kingdom impact.
PHOTOS FROM THE LGN ANNUAL CONFERENCE AND AIDAN UNIVERSITY GRADUATION
