Littleton, Colo. – Denver Seminary has announced Dr. Michell Temple, assistant professor of Counseling, as the Dr. Vernon C. Grounds Endowed Chair of Christian Counseling, effective Sept. 1.

Dr. Temple joined Denver Seminary in 2021. She holds an Ed.D. in professional counseling and supervision from the University of West Georgia and a Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision from Regent University.

Dr. Temple’s research focuses on restoration and transformation through the lens of resilience. Her scholarly contributions explore areas such as post-traumatic growth, self-determination theory, and the integration of spirituality and religion in counseling practice.

“Dr. Michell Temple’s research exemplifies both academic rigor and deep relevance to Denver Seminary’s mission,” said Dr. Don Payne, academic dean and vice president of academic affairs. “Her focus on resilience, post-traumatic growth, and the integration of spirituality in counseling practice greatly enriches our academic community, equipping students and faculty to better navigate the complexities of human healing and enhancing their impact in ministry and counseling.”

The Dr. Vernon C. Grounds Endowed Chair of Christian Counseling was established in honor of Dr. Vernon C. Grounds, whose profound influence shaped the life and character of Denver Seminary for over six decades. He served the Seminary as academic dean, president, president emeritus, and chancellor.

Dr. Temple is a prolific contributor to the counseling field, having authored numerous book chapters and journal articles. She is also a sought-after speaker and subject matter expert in her areas of specialization.

“Dr. Grounds’ commitment to academic excellence positioned the Seminary as a leader in theological education, and his deep compassion laid the foundation for our counseling programs,” added Payne. “Dr. Temple’s passion for the counseling field and her empathy for individuals and communities make her the ideal successor to carry forward his legacy.”

Endowed Chair positions are valuable for higher education institutions not only to recognize the distinction of outstanding faculty, but to provide additional support for the chair to use in research and teaching. In addition, the Dr. Vernon C. Grounds Endowed Chair of Christian Counseling will continue to affirm Denver Seminary’s commitment to equipping students with the skills and spiritual insight necessary to promote healing and growth, integrating rigorous clinical training with a strong foundation in Christian faith.

For more information, contact Andrea Weyand, senior director of Communications, Denver Seminary, at Andrea.Weyand@DenverSeminary.edu or 720.492.0240.

About Denver Seminary
Denver Seminary is a non-denominational graduate school of theology located in Littleton, Colo. The Seminary’s mission is to prepare men and women to engage the needs of the world with the redemptive power of the gospel and the life-changing truth of Scripture. Established in 1950, Denver Seminary offers on-campus, fully online, and hybrid degree programs, and has an extension campus in Washington DC and a Korean Global Program. In addition, the Seminary offers programming for lay ministry through its Hispanic Programs and Black Church Programs.