Union Presbyterian Seminary names director of the Leadership Institute
The Rev. Alex Fischer will begin in his new role Sept. 14
RICHMOND, Virginia — Union Presbyterian Seminary has named the Rev. Alex Fischer director of the Leadership Institute, effective Sept. 14.
Fischer will lead the seminary’s continuing education ministry, developing programs and partnerships that equip pastors, church leaders and congregations across denominations and communities.
“Alex comes to us from Hillsborough Presbyterian Church in Hillsborough, North Carolina, where he has served as pastor since 2020. A UPSem alumnus — he earned his Master of Divinity here in 2018 — Alex brings a pastor’s heart, strong ecumenical instincts, and a genuine commitment to equipping church leaders for the work of ministry,” said Dr. Shawn Oliver, vice president for strategy and institutional effectiveness at Union Presbyterian Seminary. “His experience in congregational leadership, community organizing, and building cross-denominational relationships makes him well suited to lead the Leadership Institute into its next chapter.”
“I am excited about the Rev. Alex Fischer joining UPSem as the director of the Leadership Institute,” said the seminary’s president, Dr. Jacq Lapsley. “Alex brings a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges of pastoral leadership in this moment, a profound commitment and love for the church of Jesus Christ, and a demonstrated record of successful community engagement. I can’t wait to see where the Leadership Institute will go under his direction!”
“How wonderful to be back in the UPSem community!” Fischer said. “Having served as an ordained minister for eight years now, I'm looking forward to serving my colleagues and the wider church by offering helpful and relevant continuing education opportunities. I also look forward to seeing how I will personally grow as I join UPSem at this exciting moment in their story.”
About Union Presbyterian Seminary
Union Presbyterian Seminary prepares people to be leaders of gospel-inspired transformative change in pursuit of a more just and compassionate world. With campuses in Richmond, Virginia, and Charlotte, North Carolina, the seminary has prepared leaders for ministry since 1812 through rigorous theological education that is scholarly, pastoral, and engaged with contemporary life.
Offering a range of degree programs, Union is home to distinguished faculty, a historic campus with one of the nation’s finest theological libraries, and a vibrant community of worship, service, and fellowship. Graduates serve as pastors, educators, chaplains, mission workers and scholars, carrying forward the seminary’s long tradition of equipping leaders for the church and the world.
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