Religion academic, author named Trinity Alumnus of the Year

The alumni office of Trinity Evangelical Divinity School has named William Lane Craig (Class of '74 and '75) the 2016 Alumnus of the Year.

Craig earned master's degrees from Trinity in philosophy of religion, as well as in church history and the history of Christian thought. He taught philosophy of religion at Trinity from 1980-86.

He currently serves as research professor of philosophy at Biola University's Talbot School of Theology in La Mirada, California, and as professor of philosophy at Houston Baptist University.

Craig is a leading scholar in the field of Christian apologetics, a discipline focused on presenting rational explanations for the existence of God. He has wrote or edited more than 40 books.

Craig has engaged Christopher Hitchens and Lawrence M. Krauss in public debates about God's existence. He wrote "Reasonable Faith," a book which started as a collection of apologetics lectures Craig presented to students attending his classes. The book is now in its third edition.

"Over the years I have had the opportunity to learn from Professor Craig through his many outstanding publications," Trinity President David S. Dockery said. "We are grateful for the ways that he has brought honor to Trinity through his life, scholarship, and service."

"I have certainly admired his ministry from afar and will look forward to the opportunity to welcome him to campus when he returns in the fall," Dockery added.

Craig will receive his award Oct. 18 during a Homecoming Week luncheon on the Trinity campus. He will give a special lecture to Trinity Evangelical Divinity School faculty and invited guests during his campus visit. The lecture and luncheon will be hosted in Hinkson Hall at noon.

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