Explorer’s Bible Study is led by an Executive Director and a Board of Directors. The Board of Directors is made up of individuals who are active members of Explorer’s Bible Study Classes or are active in our on-line division iStudy.

Melinda Burnette

Executive Director

Our current Executive Director, Melinda L. Burnette is the fifth director since EBS founding in 1976. Melinda previously served as the Director of Training and Class Development for EBS. She is passionate about inspiring and equipping disciples who make a difference in the lives of others.

Melinda has served God and His people on 6 continents as a Bible teacher, trainer and leader. She served as a missionary in Nigeria and Thailand for 16 years prior to serving as the Chief Training Officer for BSF International. Loving and serving God’s people around the globe has been and continues to be the greatest blessing and privilege in her life.

Melinda grew up in Spruce Pine, NC where she personally met the Lord Jesus Christ at age 9. She graduated from the UNC-Chapel Hill with an undergraduate degree in Physical Therapy. A lifelong learner, Melinda continues to learn and grow through Bible studies, online courses, books, podcasts and everyday conversations.

Michael Patrick Harding

President

Our current President, Michael Patrick Harding served as the Executive
Director of EBS from 2018-2023.

Michael has been actively involved as an EBS Teaching Leader since 2001. He wrote new studies for EBS while serving as the Executive Director and continues to do so in his role as President.

He has a Masters of Theology from Michigan Theological Seminary. He also received his under-graduate degree by attending Grace College, the University of Wisconsin and Spring Arbor University. He did his Doctoral Studies at The University of Southern California.

Michael served as Senior Pastor, Teaching Pastor, Associate Pastor and Interim Pastor of churches over the last 20 years. He has taught at colleges, pastor conferences, retreats, and churches around the world.

Michael also has a background in business. He has founded, run, and sold several successful businesses in the manufacturing and recycling industries. He is known for his relational style and entrepreneurial spirit.

Mike’s wife Cynthia “Louise” is also very active at Explorer’s. She writes children and student studies, edits and provides content for adult studies. Mike and Louise have been married for over 30 years.