Our Story: A 30‑Year Journey

Nearly three decades ago, a group of missionaries and educators gathered in Santiago, Chile, facing a challenge too large for any one organization to solve alone. A landmark study had revealed that most evangelical pastors across Latin America lacked access to adequate theological training. The need was urgent, the gap was wide, and traditional models simply weren't reaching the people who needed them most.

In that moment, a simple but powerful idea emerged: synergy. If schools, missionaries, and ministries could share resources instead of duplicating them, the impact could multiply. That conviction sparked the creation of a small initiative called UBIET—an early expression of what would eventually become Horizon Education Network.

From the beginning, the vision was clear: equip Christian leaders around the world with high‑quality theological education delivered in their own language, culture, and context.

As the work expanded, so did the identity. UBIET became the International Baptist University, and later Horizon International Schools. Along the way, the organization codified core values—biblical fidelity, academic excellence, mission focus, international cooperation, and a student‑centered approach—that continue to guide the network today.

A major turning point came in 2004 through a partnership with Moody Bible Institute. Horizon received a library of online courses that became the backbone of its early distance‑learning programs. This collaboration helped launch the Learning Alliance, a coalition committed to expanding access to theological education globally.

Between 2005 and 2015, Horizon laid the groundwork for long‑term sustainability. The organization opened its first office, built a professional staff, implemented Moodle as its learning platform, and established formal board committees. These years were marked by steady, intentional development—strengthening the systems needed to support a growing global footprint.

During this period, Horizon also began a thoughtful transition toward independence. Originally launched within ABWE, the organization gradually moved toward its own legal and operational identity. In 2015, the Board unanimously voted to incorporate as an independent 501(c)(3), ensuring clarity, accountability, and the freedom to serve a broad network of schools worldwide.

This chapter also honored the legacy of Dr. John White, whose vision for collaborative, high‑quality theological education shaped the DNA of Horizon from the very beginning.

With independence came a new identity. In 2016, Horizon International Schools became Horizon Education Network—a name that better reflected its global mission and the diverse services it provides to theological schools around the world.

What began with 3 charter affiliates in 1999 has grown into a network of more than 75 partners, associates, and clients across multiple continents. Horizon's role has expanded from content delivery to full‑scale educational support, technology solutions, leadership development, and strategic consulting.

Collaboration remains at the heart of Horizon's mission. A strategic partnership with Overseas Council led to the launch of Institutes for Excellence in Ecuador, Togo, India, Mexico, and Turkey—training school presidents and administrators in leadership and institutional development. In 2021, Horizon became an Associate Member of ICETE, strengthening its connection to the global theological education community.

The network has also stepped into moments of crisis. During the COVID‑19 pandemic, Horizon's distance‑learning infrastructure enabled schools to continue teaching when classrooms closed. After the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Horizon underwrote Moodle fees for three Ukrainian seminaries and supported the TCI campus in Kherson after it was bombed.

Throughout its history, Horizon has cultivated a culture of continuous learning. The team regularly studies books on pedagogy, technology, missiology, cross‑cultural education, and organizational leadership. This shared intellectual and spiritual formation shapes the way Horizon serves its partners and adapts to a rapidly changing world.

Today, Horizon stands on a strong foundation built over 30 years of innovation and collaboration. Recent initiatives include developing a new student information system, conducting a global stakeholder survey, and completing the organization's first Independent Accountants Review Report.

In 2025, Horizon enters a new chapter of leadership as Allan Cuthbert concludes his long and faithful tenure as President. Dr. Jerry Zandstra and Miriam Taylor will guide the network forward as Interim President and Vice President of Global Operations.

From that first gathering in 1996 to the global network of today, one commitment has remained constant: to work together so that believers around the world can be effectively equipped for pastoral, local church, and academic ministry.

Horizon Education Network exists to serve schools, empower leaders, and strengthen theological education wherever God's people are called to learn and teach.

The story continues—and the horizon keeps expanding.