The Dr. Ross Cochran Distinguished Endowed Chair for Theological Studies

Honoring a legacy

The theological studies program is designed to help students see themselves as called to ministry, whether in official church capacity, serving Christ via their vocation, or serving the kingdom in other ways. Theological Studies equips them to serve in their local churches, careers and communities. Customized degree plans can be tailored to their specific gifts and interests, including training in spiritual formation, biblical interpretation, ethics, and vocation and mission. In the context of an intentional community, students learn more about themselves and learn to discern God’s call. 

Program facts

• The number of students involved has increased more than 400% in the last two years. Harding University now has 14% of its student body with a Bible major.
• The theological studies program aims to address the widespread minister shortage by preparing students for ministry in local churches, careers and communities.
• The endowed chair honors the legacy of Dr. Ross Cochran who inspired thousands of students to be more like Jesus and to serve as he served.

How can you help? 

Your generous gifts will help us continue to support these students by helping them develop a ministry identity and by fostering community. Our priorities include:

1. Establishing a physical space for cultivating community
2. Increasing the operating budget for events, speakers, mentoring sessions, merchandise, etc.
3. Provide salaries for additional dedicated staff to advise and mentor a rapidly growing number of students

Give to the endowed chair.

These are a few of the ways that you can give to the endowed chair:

1. Make an online pledge (Google Form).
2. Give online using the instructions below:

   • To give online to the Dr. Ross Cochran Distinguished Endowed Chair for Theological Studies, please click the button below to proceed to our main giving form.

   • Select "Other" on the Fund dropdown and type "Dr. Ross Cochran Distinguished Endowed Chair for Theological Studies" in on the Designation line.

   • Please put that your gift is in memory of "Ross Cochran". Your gift will help support Harding students and the Theological Studies Program for years to come.

3. If you prefer to give by check, please send it to: Harding University Advancement, 915 E. Market Ave., Box 12238, Searcy, AR 72149.

Continuing a legacy

For nearly four decades, Dr. Ross Cochran poured his heart into Harding University, leaving an indelible mark on students, colleagues and the broader Harding family. As a distinguished professor emeritus in the College of Bible and Ministry, he has guided generations of students through scripture, theology and ministry, always with a steady emphasis on living and serving like Christ. His classroom has never been just about academics. It has always been about shaping lives for kingdom service.

Dr. Cochran’s influence has reached far beyond the classroom. He has faithfully served the church, mentored future leaders and invested deeply in the community. He always leads with humility, wisdom and compassion. Known as a teacher, pastor and friend, Dr. Cochran has made an impact in the lives of thousands around the world.

His love for teaching and ministry also found expression in his writing. In his book, Not Off Limits, Dr. Cochran encourages Christians to engage in honest, meaningful conversations about faith and reminds us that no question is too big and no topic too difficult when approached with humility, courage and trust in God. Like his classroom, the book reflects his lifelong passion for guiding others into deeper faith and understanding.

Throughout his career, Dr. Cochran has been recognized as an award-winning teacher, receiving multiple Teacher Achievement Awards, the Alpha Chi Faculty Scholar Award, and even having the Petit Jean Yearbook dedicated to him twice — clear evidence of profound respect and love from students and peers.

In honor of his faithful service and Christ-centered leadership, Harding established the Dr. Ross Cochran Distinguished Endowed Chair for Theological Studies. This endowed chair ensures that his legacy continues, equipping future generations of students to pursue deep theological study, grow in faith and prepare for lives of meaningful ministry.