Dr. Copeland retired as Professor of Psychology and Counseling at Hardin Simmons University and was the Director of the Julius Olsen Honors Program. He has a special interest in supporting LGBTQ+ people and started the first Human Sexuality course at Hardin Simmons University.

Dr. Copeland has an Ed.D. in Educational Psychology from Texas Tech University. His dissertation was titled “The Relationship between Protestant Fundamentalism and Intellectual and Moral Development among College Students.” His MA in Religious Education was from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and his BS in Psychology was earned from Texas A&M University. He was formerly a Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.

Prior to moving to Colorado, Dr. Copeland served as a deacon and worship leader at First Baptist Church in Abilene, Texas. He is eager to work with the Fletcher Seminary board to equip students within the United States and abroad in rigorous as well as practical ministry training.