Contact: Shaun Redgate, Light University Online, 877-506-5848, shaun.redgate@lightuonline.com

FOREST, Va., April 23, 2013 /Christian Newswire/ -- Light University of Virginia announced today that Dr. Tony Wheeler, Executive Director of The Dr. John Trent Institute for The Blessing and President of Wheeler Ministries, a non-profit, has accepted the position as Dean of the School of Marriage and Family Ministries for Light University Online (LUO). LUO is a world leader in the training and development of students interested in biblical counseling, Christian life coaching, and crisis and trauma care. LUO currently offers more than 15, distinctively Christian online programs of study through its highly interactive online educational format. Each program of study is uniquely designed to equip students from all over the globe to effectively help others change their lives for the better.

Dr. Wheeler has a master's degree in Family Therapy/Studies from Friends University and a Ph.D. in Family Life Education and Consultation from Kansas State University. He has worked with Dr. John Trent (co-author of The Blessing with Gary Smalley) for the last eight years teaching seminars and helping individuals, marriages, and families find hope and healing.

Dr. Wheeler has a passion to help people find freedom and hope through a deeper relationship with Christ. In his seminars, consulting and counseling, he has worked with thousands of individuals, couples, and families. This has provided insight into the challenges families face today. Dr. Wheeler has helped people find freedom from marital hurts, parenting issues, and a number of other matters people face in this generation.

He has been married to his wife, Stacey, for over 25 years and, together, they have three children and one grandchild.

The addition of Dr. Wheeler positions LUO as a recognized leader in marriage and family training. Dr. Tim Clinton, president of the American Association of Christian Counselors (www.AACC.net) and Light University Online, says that the addition of Dr. Wheeler to Light University Online "positions the University as the leader in marriage and family ministry training. The new programs and courses Drs. Wheeler and Trent will be developing and overseeing have the potential of making a great impact on the next generation of biblical counselors."

Dr. Wheeler adds, "Light University Online offers significant opportunities to pastors, counselors, and individuals who desire to mature in their spiritual walk with Christ and find practical training in helping others. LUO's programs of study offer materials that equip students to both understand who they are in Christ, as well as prepare them to serve others with knowledge and compassion. Dr. Tim Clinton and the faculty and administration at Light University Online have a desire to help individuals identify their unique calling in the Body of Christ and equip and train them to fulfill that calling. LUO is on the cutting edge of online Christian education. They are committed to providing excellence in training ministers, counselors, and teachers. It is a privilege to join Dr. Clinton, Dr. Trent, and such a passionate team of educators and administrators at LUO."