2025 Faculty & Staff Updates
Learn about the new faces and position changes that occurred at SMU Perkins School of Theology during summer 2025.
Boggan appointed affiliate assistant research professor
Dr. Ashley Boggan joined Perkins as affiliate assistant research professor of Methodist Studies, effective June 1, 2025. Boggan earned her Ph.D. in American religious history from Drew Theological School in 2017, with concentrations in Wesleyan/Methodist studies and women/gender studies. She will continue in her role as general secretary of the General Commission on Archives and History of The United Methodist Church. This appointment also continues a cherished family legacy at SMU: her father earned both his M.Div. and D.Min. at Perkins, and her mother holds a master of sacred music and a master of vocal performance from SMU’s Meadows School of the Arts. Read the announcement of her appointment here.
Nelms Chastain promoted to assistant professor
Emily Nelms Chastain has been promoted to assistant professor of Christian History & Methodist Studies, effective June 1. Nelms Chastain joined Perkins as an instructor in August 2024, teaching History of Christianity while completing her Ph.D. at Boston University. She is ordained as a deacon in the North Alabama Conference of The United Methodist Church. She also holds an M.Div. and M.A. in religion from Claremont School of Theology as well as a B.A. from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Read a March 2025 profile of Nelms Chastain here.
Lee, Steuernagel promoted in May
In May, Perkins School of Theology announced the promotion of two faculty members: James K. Lee, from associate professor to professor of early Christianity, and Marcell Silva Steuernagel, from assistant professor to the tenured position of associate professor of church music. The promotions were approved on May 2 by the Board of Trustees of Southern Methodist University, based on both faculty members’ excellence in teaching, service to the university and distinction in scholarship, research and publishing. Read the announcement here.
Hanch appointed Baptist House director
The Rev. Dr. Kate Hanch is the new director of the Baptist House of Studies (BHS), effective August 11. A pastor, theologian and scholar, Hanch brings more than a decade of experience in congregational ministry and theological education across denominational lines. Previously, Hanch served as associate pastor at First St. Charles United Methodist Church in Missouri. Ordained at Holmeswood Baptist Church in 2011, she has ministered in both Baptist and United Methodist contexts. Read the July 2, 2025 announcement here.