DALLAS - William Lawrence, an associate dean at Emory University in Atlanta known for his writing and research, has been named dean of Southern Methodist University's Perkins School of Theology. <br>
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The 55-year-old Lawrence will take the post August first. He is currently associate dean for development and church relations at Emory's Candler School of Theology. <br>
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Lawrence will succeed Robin Lovin, who was named SMU's Cary Maguire University Professor of Ethics in May. <br>
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Lawrence is known for his writing and research in homiletics and the history and doctrine of The United Methodist Church. <br>
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Perkins School of Theology was founded in 1911 by the Methodist Episcopal Church South, now The United Methodist Church, as one of the original schools of Southern Methodist University.