Dr. Andrew J. “Andy” Peterson died on December 26, 2023 in Matthews, North Carolina after a protracted illness. A respected psychologist, educator, and pioneer in educational technology, Dr. Peterson led Reformed Theological Seminary, Global Education from 1997-2014.
Born on November 27, 1951 in Clearfield, Pennsylvania, Dr. Peterson earned a B.A. in psychology at Western Washington University and an MA in educational psychology at the University of California, Berkley. He also completed a Ph.D. in educational technology from the University of Pittsburgh.
Before spearheading RTS’ online campus as RTS Virtual in 1997, Dr. Peterson taught classes in the psychology department at Grove City College, served as director of the Santa Fe Educational Foundation, and founded the Multimedia Development Center at the University of California, San Diego. Most recently, he was vice president for educational innovation and global outreach at Western Seminary.
RTS Global has grown its offerings to two fully online Masters of Arts degrees in addition to certificates in languages, Bible, and theology. Moreover, students from other RTS campuses are able to take online courses through the Global campus to fulfill degree requirements.
“Dr. Peterson was on the leading edge of the distance education movement and laid the foundation for RTS and what it is today,” said RTS Global Executive Director David John. “He brought us from tapes and notebooks to the digital realm that drives all online programs today. At RTS Global, we continue to reap the benefits of Andy’s insight and understanding as to where distance ed could go. He always encouraged staff to push the envelope.”
Dr. Peterson was an ordained ruling elder and served several congregations in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and the Presbyterian Church in America.
Preceded in death by his parents and sister, Dr. Peterson is survived by his wife, Lynnette, of nearly 52 years, their four children, and 13 grandchildren. He is also survived by his two brothers and numerous extended family members. A visitation and memorial service took place on January 5 at Christ Covenant Church in Matthews.