Dr. Kyle J.A. Small Named Dean of the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies
Calvin University has named Kyle Small as the dean of the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies (SGCS). Small, who previously served as dean of Graduate Studies, will now lead the entire school across graduate education, continuing studies, and the Calvin Prison Initiative. This transition comes as Kevin den Dulk assumes the role of interim provost for the university.
In his expanded role, Small oversees a school uniquely committed to lifelong leadership education for adult learners. The SGCS connects the best of the Reformed Christian and liberal arts traditions with professional expertise. Small shared, “The aim of Calvin’s programs has never been just to hand out degrees. It’s about becoming more fully who God made you to be. We’re forming leaders who are attentive to the Spirit—who lead not just with strategy, but with soul.”
As he takes on new responsibilities, den Dulk knows the school he helped form rests in good hands. “Kyle has already demonstrated thoughtful, collaborative leadership in strengthening our graduate programs. His ability to see clearly and act strategically will serve the school well.”
A School Focused on Adult Learners
Whether serving executives or working professionals, community leaders, or incarcerated students pursuing degrees through the Calvin Prison Initiative, the school’s programs are built around the realities and aspirations of curious and motivated adults.
The SGCS is guided by several core commitments:
- Adult learning that honors the experience, skills, and questions learners bring with them
- Liberal arts formation that cultivates curiosity, critical thinking, communication, emotional intelligence, and ethics
- Public leadership aimed not simply at career advancement, but at shaping organizations and communities for the common good
- Place-based engagement, rooted in West Michigan, yet extending nationally and internationally through multiple modalities
Adult learners at Calvin engage their studies with a desire to think deeply, act justly, and live wholeheartedly throughout society—in their homes, workplaces, churches, and communities.
Looking Ahead
“This is an exciting moment,” Small said. “The School of Graduate and Continuing Studies has a clear mission: to serve adult learners with excellence and imagination, grounded in faith and committed to leadership for the common good. I’m honored to step into this role and to continue building something that is both deeply Calvin and boldly future-oriented.”
With this leadership transition, Calvin University signals its ongoing commitment to accessible, formational, and innovative education for adult learners—locally, nationally, and globally.