What's Happening?
Terumi Echols, the president and publisher of InterVarsity Press (IVP), has announced her retirement effective October 1, after five years in her role. Echols has been instrumental in expanding IVP's reach and influence, particularly through initiatives
aimed at addressing racial imbalances in publishing and supporting spiritual formation. During her tenure, IVP launched the Every Voice Now initiative, the Spanish-language imprint IVP Español, and the Wholehearted Household project funded by a $1.25 million Lilly Endowment grant. Echols also oversaw the growth of IVP’s audio, podcast, and digital media efforts. Her leadership was praised by Tom Lin, president and CEO of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA, for expanding IVP's biblically grounded and culturally engaged publications. Echols joined IVP in 2017 as the director of finance and fulfillment operations and succeeded Jeff Crosby as publisher.
Why It's Important?
Echols' retirement marks a significant transition for IVP, a key player in religious publishing. Her initiatives have not only broadened the scope of IVP's offerings but have also addressed critical issues such as racial diversity and family support in religious contexts. The Every Voice Now initiative and the Spanish-language imprint have opened new markets and audiences, reflecting a broader trend in publishing towards inclusivity and diversity. The Wholehearted Household project and the expansion into digital media signify IVP's adaptation to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. Echols' departure could impact the strategic direction of IVP, as her successor will need to continue these initiatives while navigating the evolving landscape of religious publishing.
What's Next?
InterVarsity and IVCF EVP Nathan Krupke will lead the search for a new president and publisher. The new leader will face the challenge of maintaining the momentum of Echols' initiatives while potentially introducing new strategies to further expand IVP's reach. Stakeholders, including authors and ministry partners, will be keenly interested in how the transition affects ongoing projects and the overall mission of IVP. The publishing industry will watch closely to see if IVP continues to prioritize diversity and digital expansion under new leadership.
