Chip Hardwick

Charles “Chip” Hardwick, PhD ’07, MDiv ’99, currently serves as the Executive Presbyter for the Synod of the Covenant, overseeing 700 congregations across Michigan, Ohio, and portions of Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. In this role, Chip is deeply committed to supporting and guiding the leadership of local churches, fostering theological development, and advancing the mission of the Church.

Previously, Chip served as the director of theology, formation, and evangelism for the Presbyterian Mission Agency of the Presbyterian Church (USA). His experience in leadership within both local and national church contexts gives him a comprehensive perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the Church today.

An ordained PC(USA) pastor, Chip’s ministry journey has taken him to churches in Lake Forest, Illinois; Bloomington, Illinois; and Atlanta, Georgia. His academic background is both broad and deep, with a PhD from Princeton Theological Seminary, a ThM from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University, an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, and a BA from Alma College. This diverse education equips Chip to approach ministry with both theological depth and strategic insight.

Before entering ministry, Chip worked in the business world, including roles with strategy consultancy Bain and Company in Dallas and Madrid and with Dow Corning Corporation in Kentucky and Michigan. This combination of business acumen and theological training allows him to bring a unique, strategic perspective to his work in ministry. Chip is passionate about fostering the spiritual growth of individuals and congregations, helping them to live out their calling with both faith and purpose.