James K. Lee to lead academic affairs at Perkins

DALLAS (SMU) – Leighton K. Farrell Endowed Dean Bryan P. Stone of Perkins School of Theology at SMU has appointed James K. Lee, Ph.D., as associate dean for academic affairs, effective Jan. 1, 2027.

Lee will succeed Hugo Magallanes, Ph.D., who will transition from associate dean for academic affairs to director of Hispanic Initiatives at Perkins on Jan. 1.

In announcing the appointment, Stone cited Lee's visionary leadership and imagination, administrative ability, collegial spirit and curricular creativity, as well as the respect he has earned from faculty, staff, students and University leaders, and his record in teaching and scholarship.

"I am delighted that Jim has agreed to step into this new role, and I look forward to working alongside him as a strategic partner in Perkins," said Stone.

Lee is professor of the history of early Christianity and a recipient of the Altshuler Distinguished Teaching Professor award. His teaching and research focus on the history of Christianity, early Christian theology and Augustine. He is the author of numerous peer-reviewed journal articles and three books: Praise Without Ceasing: The Spirituality of St. Augustine (2026), The Church in the Latin Fathers (2020) and Augustine and the Mystery of the Church (2017). Lee joined Perkins in 2012 after earning his doctorate at the University of Notre Dame. At Perkins, he previously served as director of the Doctor of Ministry program from 2018 to 2023, and he currently serves as director of the Graduate Program in Religious Studies, a role that Professor of Old Testament Roy Heller will assume on Jan. 1.

Lee’s leadership extends across SMU, including his service as president of the SMU Faculty Senate, a role he has held this year as the University finalized its strategic plan.

"I am grateful for the leadership and dedication that Dr. Magallanes has offered for many years as associate dean for academic affairs. I am excited for the opportunity to work with Dean Stone – and with all of the faculty, staff and students – to build a bright future for theological education at Perkins," said Lee.

In his new role, Lee will work alongside Stone, faculty and staff to provide academic leadership for the school, including oversight of its curriculum and academic programs. 

SMU Perkins School of Theology, founded in 1911, is one of five official University-related schools of theology of The United Methodist Church. Degree programs include the Master of Divinity, Master of Sacred Music, Master of Theological Studies, Master of Arts in Ministry, Master of Theology, Doctor of Ministry, and Doctor of Pastoral Music as well as the Ph.D., in cooperation with The Graduate Program in Religious Studies at SMU's Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences.