New Biography Showcases Pistole’s Legacy

Anderson, Ind. — A new biography about Anderson University President John S. Pistole ’78 has been released, entitled, John S. Pistole: Searching for Integrity and Faith. Written by author Barry L. Callen, the book can now be purchased through Amazon and Emeth Press. The biography includes stages of Pistole’s personal and professional life, highlighting how his faith has impacted his time in Christian higher education, as well as his former prominent roles in the federal government.

Pistole’s biography sheds light on his extensive national security and counterterrorism experience, and how his faith informed and guided him during his 26 years of service to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and 4.5 years leading the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Pistole later felt a calling back to his alma mater, Anderson University, to serve as president, where he has helped guide the institution into its second century by developing distinctive, compelling, and relevant strategies and programs, such as cybersecurity and national security, complemented by the newly established Center for Security Studies and Cyber Defense. 

After earning his bachelor’s degree from Anderson University in 1978, Pistole went on to Indiana University, where he earned his juris doctorate from the Robert H. McKinney School of Law. Two years later, in 1983, Pistole joined the FBI, and by 2004 was appointed deputy director. In 2010, President Obama nominated Pistole as administrator of the TSA. He remains the longest-serving administrator in the TSA’s history.

“There is, in this one man, the rare combination of disciplined reserve and decisive leadership,” says Callen. “He’s a man in the national headlines who nonetheless doesn’t have a bloated ego. He knows and is fully committed to the call of God on his life. He’s a simple Christian man — a wise gentleman worthy of being followed in today’s tribalized and power-crazed world.”

“I’m humbled and honored to have this biography published,” Pistole says. “It is my hope and prayer that readers will be encouraged to hear how God can and does work in our lives as we seek His wisdom, strength, and leading.”

This significant new biography, co-published by Anderson University Press, is available now from Emeth Press and from Amazon in hardback, paperback, and Kindle eBook editions. Additional information on Pistole can be found on his YouTube channel.

Anderson University is on a mission to educate students for lives of faith and service, offering more than 60 undergraduate majors, 30 three-year degrees, 20 NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports, alongside adult and graduate programs. The private, liberal arts institution is fully accredited and recognized among top colleges for its business, computer science, cybersecurity, dance, engineering, nursing, and teacher education programs. Anderson University was established in 1917 in Anderson, Indiana, by the Church of God.