Paul Penley, Ph.D.

Paul Penley, Ph.D. is a multifaceted professional with extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, philanthropy, and biblical scholarship. He currently serves as the Executive Director at The Terry and Laurie Ledbetter Foundation, a position he has held since March 2024.1

Professional Background

Dr. Penley's career is characterized by a blend of academic and practical experience:

Philanthropy and Nonprofit Sector::

• As Executive Director at the Ledbetter Foundation, he directs grantmaking by identifying top-tier nonprofits, evaluating their organizational health, and investing resources to improve outcomes.1
• Previously, he spent nearly 15 years (May 2009 - March 2024) as a Giving Advisor at Excellence in Giving, LLC, where he advised philanthropists on the impact and health of potential grantees.1

Academic and Educational Roles::

• Founder of Bible Explainer (August 2020 - Present), creating short videos explaining biblical context.1
• Affiliate Faculty at Colorado Christian University (November 2013 - June 2018).1
• Professor at Moody Bible Institute (2007 - 2009).1
• Adjunct Professor at Columbia International University (2010 - 2011).1

Education

Dr. Penley holds a Ph.D. in New Testament from Trinity International University, which he completed in 2008 at the age of 28. He also has a BA in Ancient Mediterranean Languages from Columbia International University.1

Expertise and Contributions

Paul Penley is known for:

• Evaluating nonprofit leadership, finances, strategy, and impact across multiple countries.1
• Presenting research at prestigious conferences and publishing in reputable magazines.1
• Teaching Bible interpretation, backgrounds, and New Testament studies in various settings.1
• Contributing to the Museum of the Bible curriculum project.1

His diverse background combines academic rigor with practical experience in philanthropy and nonprofit management, making him well-suited for his current role at the Ledbetter Foundation.