President of the W.P. Wiggins Bible College and Chief Academic and  Executive Officer. 

Installation of the New President 

The William P. Wiggins Bible College formally installed Rev. Dr. Jasper A. Saunders, Jr. as president during a June 6, 2026 inauguration and investiture ceremony held at New Mount Joy Church in Suffolk, marking a major leadership transition for the institution.

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The ceremony followed Saunders’ appointment as interim president in August 2023 and officially recognized him as the college’s new leader after guiding the institution through a period of transition and growth.

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Founded in 2003 by the late Bishop William P. Wiggins, Sr., the college has focused on faith-based higher education and ministerial training. Saunders succeeds Rev. Dr. Jasper A. Saunders, Sr., who was named President Emeritus after serving as president since the college’s founding. College officials noted that Saunders, Sr. was appointed to the leadership position by Bishop Wiggins and worked closely with Saunders, Jr. throughout the transition process to help ensure continuity and stability.

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During his interim tenure, Saunders emphasized enrollment growth, academic excellence, student success and spiritual development while continuing the college’s mission of biblical education and leadership preparation.

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According to the official resolution presented during the ceremony, Saunders was recognized for his “profound vision, character, exceptional spiritual leadership, unwavering scholarship, and deep commitment to theological education and the advancement of higher learning.” He was instrumental in establishing the college’s motto, “WPWBC is the place where Faith, Knowledge and Wisdom Meet,” as well as updating the college seal.

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The college is a fully online institution of higher learning and religious training headquartered in Suffolk, Virginia. Accredited to offer degree programs ranging from the associate through doctoral levels, the institution serves students across the United States and is actively pursuing opportunities for international expansion.

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Saunders earned a Bachelor of Theology degree from Mid-Hudson Bible Institute in Poughkeepsie, New York, and a Doctor of Theology degree from William P. Wiggins Bible College. He has also pursued theological studies at Princeton University and Harvard Divinity School.

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College leaders and community supporters described the inauguration ceremony as both historic and inspirational, highlighting the institution’s continued commitment to preparing future leaders for ministry and service.

Saunders and his wife, Dr. Lisa Saunders, resides in Suffolk. They are the parents of three adult children and 5 grandchildren.

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Suffolk News Herald - Media Publication Link: 

https://www.suffolknewsherald.com/news/wiggins-bible-college-installs-new-president-ac297e84

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