The GTU is pleased to announce that Paul G. Johnson has succeeded William D. Glenn as Chair of the GTU Board of Trustees, effective June 1, 2025.
BERKELEY, CA – June 27, 2025 – The Graduate Theological Union (GTU) is pleased to announce that Paul G. Johnson has succeeded William D. Glenn as Chair of the GTU Board of Trustees, effective June 1, 2025. Johnson, a retired attorney, has been a valued member of the GTU Board since his recruitment by fellow trustee Linda Dakin-Grimm in 2023. He brings a distinguished background in law, education, and military service, as well as a deep commitment to the GTU’s mission of interreligious dialogue and spiritual engagement. As part of this transition, Johnson has passed the role of Treasurer on to current Board Member Gaurav Rastogi.
A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Johnson served as a navigator on a destroyer before pursuing advanced studies in international relations and law. He earned a master’s degree from the University of San Diego before receiving his JD, cum laude, from Harvard Law School. He practiced commercial and securities litigation for decades and was admitted to the Arizona and U.S. District Courts; the U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit; and the U.S. Supreme Court. In addition to his long and successful career practicing law, Johnson taught law courses in the political science department at Arizona State University and international negotiation at the Thunderbird School of Global Management.
“The GTU is a vital institution, uniquely positioned to foster transformative conversations across religious and cultural boundaries,” said Johnson. “I am honored to follow in the footsteps of Bill Glenn, whose leadership has exemplified compassion, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to the common good. As Chair, I look forward to advancing the institution’s bold new vision for the future and to deepening our impact.”
GTU President Uriah Kim offered his own reflection on the Board transition: “Paul has been an outstanding and thoughtful member of our Board, and I am delighted to welcome him as our new Chair. His integrity, experience, and deep commitment to our mission will guide the GTU forward in powerful ways. I am equally grateful to Bill Glenn for his exceptional service and enduring legacy.”
William D. Glenn has served as Chair of the Board since 2020, following seven years of dedicated service in various leadership roles, including Vice Chair of the Board and Chair of the Presidential Search Committee. A clinical psychologist, educator, and advocate for social justice, Glenn has left an indelible mark on the GTU community. His initiatives include broadening the Board of Trustees, helping to lead the 60th Anniversary Campaign, and expanding the institution’s fundraising and public engagement efforts.
Reflecting on the transition, Glenn offered his support and appreciation for Johnson’s appointment. “Paul brings integrity, intelligence, and optimism to this sacred work. I have no doubt the GTU will continue to flourish under his leadership,” said Glenn. “This is an
august institution that is doing essential work in bringing the grace of interreligious dialogue to bear on this hungry-for-healing world. Paul understands that deeply.”
Glenn’s tenure has been marked by his deep affection for the GTU, which he has called “sacred ground… peopled by quite remarkable individuals who believe in the idea of the magis—that is, the greater good—and are not satisfied with the collective culture’s notion of the good, but always strive for more.”
As the GTU looks toward its future, the institution celebrates the continuity of inspired leadership and expresses its profound gratitude to William Glenn for his visionary service. With Paul Johnson at the helm, the GTU Board of Trustees enters its next chapter grounded in gratitude, driven by purpose, and committed to cultivating a more just and spiritually engaged world.
