Retirement Celebration for Erich Baumgartner

Dr. Erich Baumgartner is retiring after more than four decades of service in pastoral ministry, mission, leadership education and global leadership development. From an early decision in Austria to study French for mission service, to pastoral ministry in Vienna and Salzburg, Erich’s journey has been marked by faith, curiosity and a willingness to follow where God leads.

Following doctoral studies in missiology and leadership, Erich served the church across Europe and North America, including Russia and the former Soviet Union. Since 1994, Andrews University has been his professional home, where he has helped prepare missionaries and leaders through the Institute of World Mission and, later, the School of Leadership. His work has included launching Passport to Mission, supporting innovation in the Leadership Program, serving as senior editor of the Journal of Applied Christian Leadership, and helping establish the Global Leadership Institute and LeadLab.

In retirement, Erich looks forward to time with family, good food and continued reflection on God’s work among leaders worldwide. Come celebrate Erich’s years of service to Andrews University on Feb. 5 from 4:30–6:30 p.m. in the Lincoln/Hoosier rooms on the second floor of the Campus Center.