Dr. J. Ellsworth Kalas is a former president of Asbury Theological Seminary. A pastor, teacher, and associate in evangelism with the World Methodist Council, Dr. Kalas went to Asbury in 1993 with the opening of the Beeson Preaching and Leadership program. He served as mentor to the Beeson pastors and as their preaching professor until joining the Seminary preaching faculty in 2000.

Dr. Kalas has received honorary doctorates from four colleges and universities. More than 35 of his books have been published, as well as 13 adult studies. His study The Grand Sweep is now available for iPhone. He authored Christian Believer, an intensive study of Christian doctrine produced for interdenominational use.  Dr. Kalas and his wife, Janet, who is very much a part of his ministry, have four children and nine grandchildren.