The Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy is saddened by the passing of Craig Dykstra.
A highly respected leader in religion and philanthropy, Craig was dedicated to faith, education, and service throughout his life. He was Vice President for Religion at Lilly Endowment for 23 years, guiding thousands of grants aimed at enriching religious practice and leading initiatives to strengthen congregational leadership. His thoughtful, visionary approach significantly expanded the understanding of faith-based institutions, pastoral imagination, and religious practices in the U.S.
As both a scholar and practitioner, Craig’s enduring impact spanned reflection and strategic practice in faith and philanthropy. His wise counsel was instrumental in helping to refine and advance the work of Lake Institute on Faith & Giving and the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. All who have the opportunity to learn from and engage with the institute and the school are better for his wisdom and insight.
Craig earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Michigan and his Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary. He was ordained and served as an assistant pastor at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Detroit, Michigan, before returning to Princeton for his Ph.D. Craig was a professor of Practical Theology at the Louisville Presbyterian Seminary until he was called back to Princeton to join the faculty as the Thomas W. Synnott Professor Christian Education and Practical Theology prior to his tenure at Lilly Endowment.
Following his retirement from Lilly Endowment, Craig worked with students at the Duke Divinity School as Research Professor of Practical Theology and Senior Fellow at Leadership Education while continuing to explore the intersections of faith and philanthropy in regular convenings. Over his esteemed career, he served as the editor of Theology Today, authored several books on Christian practices, and oversaw the awarding of over 6,000 grants centered on highlighting the excellence of religious institutions and their leaders.
We will miss Craig deeply and we are comforted that his legacy will continue to shape and inspire many future generations of thoughtful leaders.