A churchman of many talents has been selected as director of seminary advancement at Fresno Pacific University.
Charles “Chuck” Buller comes to FPU and the Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary with a long history with both institutions. He graduated from FPU in 1979 and earned an M.Div. in 1985 from what was then the MB Biblical Seminary, representing students on the seminary board. During his 20 years of pastoral ministry in Canada and the U.S. Buller returned to the seminary board from 1987-1995 (chairman 1993-1995). He also served on the seminary board while executive director of the U.S. Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches from 2003-2006.
“Chuck’s broad knowledge of the Mennonite Brethren constituency, extensive connections with both churches and civic organizations here in the Valley and embracing way of relating to virtually everybody make him ideally suited for his new role,” said Terry Brensinger, Ph.D., president of the seminary and vice president of FPU. “That he is available and eager to join us when the seminary is expanding its vision is not a coincidence, it is a gift of grace.”
Buller entered fundraising in 2000 as director of capital ministries for Mennonite Mutual Aid (now Everence). He later became vice president for advancement for Palm Village Retirement Community, Reedley CA, then west coast development officer for FPU’s sister school, Tabor College. Most recently he was interim pastor at College Community MB Church, Fresno, before returning to the seminary October 1, 2015.
“I am thrilled to have Chuck back at the seminary, where his leadership skills, care for people and faith-inspired optimism can build support for its new vision,” said Mark Isaac, FPU vice president for advancement.