Dear UHL family,

It is with great sadness that we bring the news that Dr. Claire Pfann has passed away at the age of 72. She died peacefully in her sleep after a prolonged fight with cancer. Both personally and academically she has had a lasting impact in the lives of all who knew her.

Claire cofounded the University of the Holy Land with her husband Stephen Sr. in 1986. Her compassion and wisdom served as the cornerstone on which UHL’s vision for international Christian higher education was built and continues to this day. As the Academic Dean, she helped develop and implement the school’s unique curriculum that immerses international Christian students in the original context of the Bible.

A skilled teacher and scholar, she was well known for her insightful teaching of topics such as daily life in the Second Temple Period, as well as Johannine and Pauline literature. She was able to provide these insights in the classroom, on field trips, online and in countless documentaries and interviews that truly blessed the body of Christ around the world.

In order to preserve this legacy and its impact, the board of UHL is diligently working to chart a course for the school’s future. Stephen and Claire’s son, Stephen Pfann Jr., is assisting in this goal by continuing to fulfill the administrative role of Director of UHL during this time of transition.

The Pfann family appreciates everyone’s support and prayer as they process this loss. They are currently organizing a memorial service with details to be announced soon (please subscribe to the UHL newsletter for more information: https://www.uhl.ac/home/connect). For those inclined, you are invited to honor Dr. Claire Pfann’s memory by supporting the school in her name (https://www.uhl.ac/home/give).

While there is comfort that Claire is no longer suffering, and is reunited in heaven with Stephen Sr. (who passed away in October), her absence is felt by all. We trust in the Lord to bring healing and consolation to her family, the UHL community and all those impacted by her life.

Thank you each of you for your continued prayerful support and love during this time.

Sincerely,

Board of Directors

The University of the Holy Land