Taylor University Names New Dean for Global Engagement

Taylor University announces the appointment of Daniel K. Darko, PhD, as Dean for Global Engagement and Executive Director of the Spencer Centre.

Darko comes to Taylor with more than two decades of executive, academic, and international experience both inside and outside the collegiate classroom. In his new role, Dr. Darko will build upon Taylor’s rich history of global engagement and will be responsible for developing and leading Taylor’s strategies for international partnerships. Darko will work collaboratively with Taylor’s Office of Intercultural Leadership and Admissions Office to amplify international student recruitment, build strategic partnerships with other universities and organizations outside of the United States, and increase study abroad opportunities.

“Dr. Darko’s heart for and experience in global missions will play an integral role as Taylor prepares servant-leaders who can minister to a world in need,” said Provost Dr. Jewerl Maxwell. “I’m excited to see how Dr. Darko’s vast international experience and strategic mindset help us achieve the Taylor Thrives imperative to equip our students to serve the world.”

Taylor’s Spencer Centre was launched in 2006 to actively promote global engagement within the student body. Each year the University sends as many as 500 students, faculty, and staff all over the world, ranking Taylor 6^th nationally for study abroad internships and travel opportunities.

Dr. Darko received a Bachelor of Theology and Master of Theology from Evangelical Theological Seminary, a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies from Oxford Centre for Mission Studies and University of Leeds, and a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of London. His most recent roles have included Wilson-Ockenga Professor of Biblical Studies and Director of Church Relations at Gordon College in Massachusetts. He is an accomplished expert on the writings of Paul with nearly 50 scholarly publications and is recognized as a public intellectual on three continents. Darko will bring his expertise to the classroom, teaching in the Department of Biblical Studies, Christian Ministries, & Philosophy.  

Darko first became acquainted with Taylor’s heart for global outreach more than 20 years ago when he worked closely with a Taylor student intern at Ghana Youth for Christ. This experience kindled his interest to one day join Taylor’s mission to prepare Christian young men and women for world impact. 

“At Taylor, we do not want to leave preparation for global service to chance,” Darko said about his upcoming role. “Global engagement is part of our DNA which promotes international student-centered and faculty-led programs, preparing graduates for meaningful vocation. We embrace the diversity of culture, ideas, and people in our ever-shrinking world and prepare our graduates to shine in whatever geo-location God calls them to serve.”

A native of Ghana, Dr. Darko served in executive and pastoral roles in Ghana, Croatia, England, and the United States. He is the Executive Director of Africa Potential and an association director of Vision New England. He is an accomplished author, skilled speaker, and the recipient of numerous research and scholarly awards.

About Taylor University

For 177 years, Taylor University has combined rigorous academics with the Christian faith and remains the oldest nondenominational school in the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). For nearly three decades, Taylor has been ranked a top Midwest College by U.S. News & World Report. The University’s graduation rate is the fourth highest nationally among peer institutions, and 98 percent of Taylor’s graduates were employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation. With a strong legacy of service and global opportunities, Taylor also ranks sixth nationally for study abroad internships and travel opportunities.