Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dr. Carol M. Schreck

Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dr. Carol M. Schreck

Dr. Carol M Schreck (left) and her husband Dr. Peter Schreck

Palmer Theological Seminary and College of Eastern University honors the life and legacy of Dr. Carol Schreck, our treasured Emeritus Associate Professor of Marriage and Family, who passed into eternity on June 26, 2026.

It is hard to put into words how much Dr. Carol Schreck meant to our EBTS/Palmer community during her many years of dedicated service. The shared sorrow among our faculty, staff, and alumni upon hearing of her passing is a profound witness to the special, beloved status Carol held in our Seminary and Eastern University family.

As clinical psychologists, spiritual mentors, and founding clinicians of Kairos Counseling Services, Carol and Peter Schreck brought a wealth of global experience and deep compassion to their work. For thirty years, Carol served as professor of Marriage and Family Counseling at Palmer Theological Seminary. Because of Dr. Schreck's visionary leadership and deep commitment to the Marriage and Family program, hundreds of church leaders are leading from a place of wholeness. That is a remarkable and enduring legacy!

Dr. Carol Schreck's calling to our Seminary touched and transformed the lives of countless students. Bringing to bear the full weight of her wisdom, she helped establish the Doctor of Ministry in Marriage & Family program, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and ministries of leaders worldwide.

For Carol, this work was a true vocation, often noting that there is no retirement in the Lord's work, only joy. Alongside her professional excellence, we honor the beautiful partnership she shared with her husband, Peter, who faithfully and well cared for Carol, who was not only his colleague but also his wife and best friend.

In a profile on the Schrecks by Leah Hood, Carol beautifully shared: "I think creativity comes from a very deep core of self…We never stop growing, ever - even into our dying. How I die is part of how I'm continuing to grow into the next stage."

We give God thanks for Carol and for her life of joy-filled faith, service, and continuous growth. May God comfort, encourage, and bless Carol's family in grieving her loss and celebrating her remarkable life and legacy.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ronald A. Matthews, President

Rev. Dr. Kimberlee A. Johnson, Dean