Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary Theological Seminary is a graduate theological school ... seminary to build strong foundations in several ... New MDiv Curriculum Launches

THE 2016-2017PRESIDENT’S

ANNUAL REPORT

Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

1 | Message from the President

9 | President’s Activity

10 | Public Theology Initiatives

13 | Connectional Learning

THE 2016-2017 PRESIDENT’S ANNUAL REPORT

14 | Faculty and Staff Highlights

17 | Eliza Garrett Distinguished Service Award

18 | Student Body: Facts and Figures

19 | Development and Financial Highlights

Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary is a graduate theological school that prepares skilled, bold, and articulate leaders who share the transforming love of Jesus Christ. Related to The United Methodist Church, with an ecumenical and international reach, we prepare leaders who are equipped to live and proclaim the Gospel and to teach in diverse congregations and educational settings. Our teaching and learning settings will be places of hospitality where we pursue respect and reconciliation in all encounters.

OUR MISSION

president’s annual report | 1

A VIBRANT SEMINARY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS

Lallene J. Rector President

I chose this Bible verse from 1Peter to guide Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary’s strategic planning work in 2015. It is a reflection of our commitment to be a servant seminary and I refer to it now because in 2016-2017, despite the challenging socio-political climate, Garrett-Evangelical celebrates the blessings and tremendous giftedness in our community. These gifts and accomplishments are the result of the tireless dedication, careful planning, and resilience of our faculty, staff, students, trustees, alums, and friends.

As we have sought to be good managers of these gifts, we have thrived during a year of transition enabling the seminary to build strong foundations in several areas to support future growth. We have managed this while remaining true to our mission and vision—dedicated to partnership with the global/church, benefitting our surrounding community, providing hospitality and inclusive welcome, and caring for the future through generational stewardship.

“And serve each other according to the gift each person has received, as good managers of God’s diverse gifts.”

(1Peter 4:10 CEB)

I

LET’S CELEBRATE!Forging our Future Campaign Complete

I am excited to announce we have surpassed the $100 million Forging Our Future campaign goal ahead of schedule! The campaign was publicly launched in October 2003 as a part of the seminary’s sesquicentennial celebration with an original goal of $35 million. In 2006, the goal was raised to $60 million and in 2009 the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to accept Chair Jerre Stead’s challenge to raise the goal to $100 million and to extend the campaign deadline to December 2017.

Ernest and Bernice Styberg, honorary co-chairs of the campaign, made a $5 million commitment this year to put the campaign over the top. Earlier they made the initial lead gift to launch the campaign, another lead gift in the middle of the campaign, and a planned gift commitment. In recognition of their outstanding leadership, Garrett-Evangelical has named its library the Styberg Library. The new name took effect after a dedication service on May 11, 2017.

Even though we have surpassed the $100 million goal, we will continue to receive gifts to the campaign until the end of June. Not all of the internal campaign goals have been met and we know there are still some alums, trustees, and friends who want to make gifts to the campaign. We will officially conclude our Forging our Future campaign on June 30, 2017—six months ahead of schedule!

It would have been impossible to reach this goal without the generosity of each of you, our trustees, alums, friends, faculty, staff, and students. We are blessed by your unwavering gifts of time, talent, and treasure. We remain a strong seminary because of your deep level of commitment.

LET’S CELEBRATE!

I am grateful to the Development Office under the leadership of Dr. David Heetland, Vice President for Development, for its dedication and persistence in seeing this campaign through to its completion. I honored Dr. Heetland with an Eliza Garrett Service Award in recognition of this historic achievement (see page 17). The Development Office staff includes Ms. Ceciley Akins, Dr. Stephanie Bliese, Rev. April McGlothin-Eller, Mr. Shane Nichols, Ms. Judy Russell, Ms. Tasha Sargent, Minister Brian Smith, and Rev. Doug Vernon.

Two Lilly Endowment Grants ReceivedGarrett-Evangelical received two grants from the Lilly Endowment Inc. this fall. A $750,000 grant will support clergy education in theologically informed financial and business practices. We believe that strong leadership in the financial health of a congregation is critical to its vitality. The grant is part of Lilly Endowment’s National Initiative to Address Economic Challenges Facing Pastoral Leaders. To help clergy meet these economic challenges, Garrett-Evangelical has created a multi-dimensional program, “Leading Vibrant Congregations: A Collaboration of Faith and Finance.” To read more about the program, visit: www.Garrett.edu/FaithAndFinance. Dr. Brent Waters, Jerre and Mary Joy Stead Professor of Christian Social Ethics, is directing this grant.

The second grant is for $1.5 million that will assist congregations in launching or mentoring new ministries serving young adults, a population that many congregations today are struggling to reach. The grant is part of Lilly Endowment’s newly announced Young Adult Initiative 2016. With this grant, Garrett-Evangelical becomes one of 12 innovation hubs around the country helping churches create informed and meaningful ministries for millennials. You can read more about “Holy Yearnings, Holy Listening, Holy Partnerships: A Peer-to-Peer Young Adult Ministry Initiative” on the seminary’s website, www.Garrett.edu/YoungAdultInitiative. Dr. Reginald Blount, Assistant Professor of Formation, Youth, and Culture, is directing this grant.

message from the president: a vibrant seminary for future generations

2 | PRESIDENT’S ANNUAL REPORT

Ernest and Bernice Styberg

New MDiv Curriculum Launches Fall 2017

In fall 2017, Garrett-Evangelical will launch its new MDiv curriculum. The faculty began its work on the curriculum in 2014 with research and feedback from a variety of sources including a meeting with current students and reports I provided from the President’s Assessment Task Force comprised of faculty, staff, trustees, alums, and Evanston and Chicago community leaders, as well as a meeting with the North Central Jurisdiction College of Bishops.

The new MDiv curriculum is responsive to these constituencies in their call for graduates who are grounded in spiritual practices and who will be adaptive leaders equipped with skills for a variety of ministerial duties and contexts. The curriculum is relevant to the needs of today’s world and it reflects our commitment to preparing public theologians seeking the well-being of all persons and creation.

The foundational courses are interdisciplinary and include attention to developing cross-cultural competencies, understanding sexual and racial identities, ensuring spiritual formation, increasing self-awareness, and discerning the ethical dimensions of many aspects of ministry. It also provides practice in thinking theologically across the variety of situations and contexts experienced in ministry.

We have responded to a number of student concerns by reducing the total number of hours required to complete the degree and including all requirements within these limits. There are more open electives and a variety of concentrations are possible, including: child advocacy, African-American church leadership, LGBTQ studies, ecological sustainability, social justice, peace studies, and spiritual formation. Students may also choose limited additional hours in order to complete further concentration interests and/or ordination required courses. The summative assessment of learning is now met with a faculty guided project-based exercise.

We are indebted to the leadership of our Vice President for Academic Affairs and Academic Dean, Dr. Luis Rivera and to Drs. Ron Anderson and Virginia Lee for guiding the faculty through this curriculum revision. Our talented faculty has done an incredible job of defining and fulfilling the core pedagogical commitments/principles and competencies of the new curriculum and of completing new course designs for the fall start date. Our registrar, Rev. Vince McGlothin-Eller worked tirelessly to develop individual coursework transition plans for each second and third year MDiv student. The work of Ms. Wendy Kneer, Ms. Andrea Leftwich, Ms. Krista McNeil, and Ms. Tina Shelton was critical to the completion of this major undertaking.

Throughout the revision process, the faculty arduously attended to reviewing the religious landscape and trends in theological education. They analyzed assessment data collected from students and alumni, and deliberated over the

school’s mission, strategic plan, and accreditation standards. The faculty discussed and cultivated a vision for students and future graduates to help them fulfill their vocations as servant leaders, teachers, justice workers, parish ministers, public theologians, and more.

-Dr. Luis R. Rivera, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Academic Dean

PRESIDENT’S ANNUAL REPORT | 3



Connectional Learning Begins

In the spring, we launched “Connectional Learning,” Garrett-Evangelical’s new approach to lifelong learning. The roll out continues this summer in time for Annual Conference visits with an updated webpage showcasing a broader range of offerings. The concept and name, “Connectional Learning,” responds to feedback from an Alum Relations survey and from conversations with bishops, alums, and other clergy and laity at Annual Conferences who desire a variety of regional, online, and campus offerings. We want to “connect” with learners where

they are to provide the education and training they need when they need it. The in-person, online, and hybrid formats enable learners to choose an option best suited to their learning style, time commitment, and budget. To read more about the Connectional Learning offerings we held this spring, see page 13. Please visit, www.Garrett.edu/ConnectionalLearning in June to see the new site and check back often for the latest offerings.

Ms. Erin Moore, Director of Strategic Initiatives, led the launch of this new program in partnership with faculty and staff including: Rev. Becky Eberhart, Dr. Brooke Lester, Rev. April McGlothin-Eller, Rev. Vince McGlothin-Eller, Mr. Mike Moser, Mr. Shane Nichols, Dr. Luis Rivera, and Ms. Tasha Sargent.

New Staff Council is Established

Our strategic plan includes a “valued employees” objective with the goal of improving communication, engagement, and fellowship with and among its staff.

A key piece of the work was to create a group for all staff with staff determining the name and objectives for the group. The staff spent much of 2015-16 working on these plans and in fall 2016, approached the Leadership Team for approval of a plan outlining its objectives, governance, and subcommittees.

With the full support and appreciation of the Leadership Team, Garrett-Evangelical officially formed the Staff Council with Ms. Krista McNeil and Ms. Tanya Saeed as its first co-chairs, and Mr. Bob Sutton as treasurer. The main objectives of the Staff Council include advocating on behalf of all staff members; promoting collegiality between offices, the seminary, and the community-at-large; and offering continuing education and training to synthesize and streamline our work. The Staff Council meets these objectives through the following four subcommittees: the Professional Development Committee, the Benefits and Handbook Committee, the Fellowship Committee, and the Support Committee. To read more about our dedicated staff, see the Faculty and Staff Highlights on pages 14-16.

Information Technology Strategic Plan

With the adoption of the new MDiv curriculum and continuing implementation of other areas of the current strategic plan, we needed to address information technology (IT), a key area supporting much of our work. I asked a group of faculty and staff, who are “power users” of technology, to form an IT Strategic Planning Team. This team was chaired by Ms. Krista McNeil, Administrator for Academic Affairs, with Dr. Brooke Lester, Rev. Vince McGlothin-Eller, Mr. Shane Nichols, Ms. Judy Russell, Mr. Jason Gill, and Mr. Rob Morris as members.

This academic year, the seminary was able to complete foundational work in two areas of the strategic plan and in two other areas of our work together. These foundations will provide solid support for future endeavors.

BUILDING STRONG FOUNDATIONS

Garrett On the Road in Madison, Wisconsin



They created a five-year plan providing a clearer distinction between Educational Technology and Information Technology; planning for renovations to classrooms and chapel technology; structuring multimedia support for classes, conferences, and events; and undergirding IT through risk assessment and disaster recovery. This plan was vetted by faculty, staff, students, and the Leadership Team and was presented to the Board of Trustees for affirmation at its May 11, 2017 meeting as an addition to the strategic plan approved by the Board in October 2015.

Creation of Student Services Offices

With the departure of Dean of Students, Rev. Dr. Cynthia Wilson, to The United Methodist Church’s Discipleship Ministries, we took the opportunity to re-imagine how we could strengthen our response to student needs. We wanted to provide a more seamless experience for students from the moment of considering Garrett-Evangelical as their seminary of choice, to enrollment, tenure as a student, and graduation, including placement in ministry and becoming an alum. To this end, we created the Student Services Office under the leadership of Rev. Becky Eberhart, who was promoted to Vice President of Student Services.

The Student Services Office is comprised of Enrollment Management, Residential Ministries, Financial Aid, and Student Life. This model enables a more integrated approach and greater collaboration among offices thus strengthening hospitality, support, and care for our students through every stage of the student lifecycle.

As part of this reorganization, Rev. Benjamin Ledell Reynolds has been promoted from Assistant Director of Recruitment to Dean of Students and Dr. Débora Junker was promoted from Assistant Dean of Students to Dean of International Students. Junker will also continue to serve as the Director of the Hispanic-Latinx Center. Rev. Katherine Fahey was promoted from Director of

Residential Ministries to Director of Admission and Recruitment. You can read more about these promotions in the Faculty and Staff Highlights section on pages 14-16.

A new position, the Director of Vocational Networking, was added to the Student Services Offices. This role is responsible for reaching alums, local churches, denominations, and other ministry sites to create a network with Garrett-Evangelical to assist placing our students in their chosen ministry upon graduation. We are continuing to fill these open staff positions giving priority to internal candidates in order to promote existing staff and then seeking external candidates when necessary. In the few months since this reorganization began, we are already hearing positive support from students about these changes.

At the heart of this new student services model is our desire to provide better, more seamless services to our students while also providing more intentional opportunities for our prospective students, current students, and alumni/ae to network with and learn from one another.

-Rev. Becky J. Eberhart Vice President of Student Services


Partnership with the Global/Church

As one of thirteen United Methodist Seminaries, it is important for Garrett-Evangelical to maintain strong relationships with The United Methodist Church (UMC). This fall, I was re-elected to serve on the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) for the 2016-2020 quadrennium. The board represents the annual conferences in the five U.S. jurisdictions and the central conferences of the UMC. It has oversight of ministerial formation, ordination processes, and education within the denomination. I will serve as a member on the Division of Higher Education and also chair of the Personnel and Policy Committee.

I continue as a member of the University Senate, composed of members who, at the time of election, are actively engaged in the work of education through employment in an educational institution and who are prepared by training and experience to evaluate educational institutions. Similar to GBHEM, election is for the quadrennium. I will serve on the Committee for Theological Education.

During the NCJ Jurisdictional Conference in July 2016, I took the opportunity to meet a number of our bishops. We discussed our new Connectional Learning efforts and how we want to bring some of those to convenient locations around the jurisdiction. I also explored with them our wish to develop several congregationally anchored hubs, strategically located where United Methodist theological education is not readily available. This allows us to begin offering extension, credit-bearing degree work.

We were very pleased when our beloved Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary trustees, Rev. Laurie Haller and Rev. Dr. Tracy Smith Malone, were elected as United Methodist bishops at the North Central Jurisdictional

Conference in Peoria, Illinois. Rev. Dr. Tracy Smith Malone is also one of our Distinguished Alums. Bishop Haller is serving the Iowa Conference and Bishop Malone is serving the East Ohio Conference.

In the Faculty Highlights section on page 14, you can read about Dr. Margaret Ann Crain, Dr. K.K. Yeo, and I being named to GBHEM’s New Room Books Editorial Board. There are several other faculty and staff members serving in various capacities on UMC general boards or in other organizations within their conferences. These connections help us stay informed and responsive to the Church.

Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary has played a vital role in shaping and informing me as a leader and a pastor for the church. All of what I experienced at seminary has prepared me to be an effective leader in the Church and the community.”

-Bishop Tracy Smith Malone East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church Commencement 2016


As you can see, these are transformative and exciting times for Garrett-Evangelical. We are in a period of transition and I am grateful for the clarity our mission and vision statements provide. During my presidency, I have taken particular care to ensure Garrett-Evangelical is a servant seminary dedicated to partnership with the global/church, benefitting our surrounding community, providing hospitality and inclusive welcome, and caring for the future through generational stewardship. Here is how we have sustained these commitments in 2016-17.

STAYING TRUE TO OUR MISSION AND VISION


Providing Hospitality and Inclusive Welcome

During the 2015-2016 academic year, Garrett-Evangelical worked with the Evanston YWCA to complete a racial equity and diversity inclusion assessment. The assessment included interviews, focus group discussions, and surveys of faculty, staff/administrators, and students. We shared the results in fall 2016 with our internal community.

When we looked at how Garrett-Evangelical’s demographics fared in comparison to United States demographics, we found we have a higher percentage of persons of color in the faculty and student categories than the U.S. persons of color percentages. In fact, it was exciting to announce that this year we admitted one of the most racially/ethnically diverse classes we have in recent history. One of the areas we need to work to increase diversity is among our staff. It was clear from the findings that while the seminary does value diversity and inclusivity, as we have become more diverse and inclusive, we also need to provide more training to faculty, staff, and students ensuring that as a community we create a safe and welcoming space for everyone.

During 2016-17, we continued to take action on the recommendations from our Circles of Trust conversations on LGBTQ inclusivity. We began the fall updating restroom signs for our single occupancy restrooms simply labeling them “restrooms.” We also translated this word into Braille, Spanish, Korean, and French to be more inclusive and welcoming of the variety of persons and languages on campus. The men and women’s restroom signs will be updated in May to include these additional languages. The new student orientation included Queerientation, orientation of new LGBTQ students and allies to Sacred Worth and Queer Seminarians; a report on the inclusivity work completed and in process at Garrett-Evangelical; and information about the resources available from Reconciling Ministries. The Women’s IMAGES space on campus was redecorated to become a shared space between Women’s IMAGES and Sacred Worth. On Friday, January 13, 2017, we welcomed Bishop Karen Oliveto to campus as part of our plan to increase LGBTQ

co-curricular offerings. She had lunch with the Circles of Trust team and Sacred Worth and gave a public theology lecture, “Strangely Warmed Hearts: A United Methodist In(Queer)y.” Throughout the day she reminded us of the importance of love and the need for us to more intentionally love people we cannot understand because of different values and beliefs.

This summer, we will begin planning a series of theologically grounded lectures for the 2017-18 academic year, each focused on a specific dimension of diversity, e.g. race, ethnicity, sex, sexual preference. These lectures will be followed by facilitated lunch conversations with faculty, staff, students, and trustees. The key points and themes from these discussions will be used to draft a theologically grounded seminary statement of diversity and inclusivity.


I am so grateful for the prophetic and pastoral leaders that I know have come from this place [Garrett-Evangelical], beloved colleagues who provide personal holiness and social transformation in a world desperately in need of hope, healing, and wholeness.

-Bishop Karen Oliveto The Mountain Sky Area of The United Methodist Church January 13, 2017



Benefitting Our Surrounding Community

Garrett-Evangelical was recognized as a “Seminary that Changes the World” Class of 2016-17 by The Center for Faith and Service. Each year, Seminaries that Change the World identifies a select group of seminaries and divinity schools offering innovative courses, programs, and opportunities for students seeking to engage in social justice and service work while in seminary. Garrett-Evangelical equips its students to proclaim the good news of the gospel, to foster deep spirituality in the lives of others, to

serve with cultural competence and commitment to racial equity, and to lead transformative change for the wellbeing of all persons and creation. Through lectures, curriculum, and community engagement, Garrett-Evangelical continues to ensure public theology remains at the forefront of our work.

We received this distinction because of our commitment to public theology in the areas of Child Advocacy, Race/Non-Violence, and Environmental Sustainability. To read more about our work in these three areas in 2016-17 see the Public Theology section on pages 10-12.

Caring for Our Future Through Generational Stewardship

As good stewards of our resources, we have made a commitment to generational stewardship. For us, this means ensuring a vibrant seminary for generations to come by completing the initiatives in our strategic plan. Every item in this report and in the strategic plan plays an integral part in generational stewardship, but I want to call special attention to one area we have made significant progress in this year—our sustainable model work.

In fall 2015 and throughout 2016, we made difficult decisions to reduce our expenses. This year we laid the groundwork for increasing our revenue-generating initiatives as outlined in the strategic plan. We completed more work in properly caring for and maintaining our buildings. Most recently, we selected a new investment portfolio manager to better care for our endowment. It has been a collaborative effort of all employees and the Board of Trustees. We owe special appreciation to the Finance Committee, chaired by Mr. John Sampson, to Mr. Dale McClain, Vice President for Business Affairs and Chief Financial Officer, and to Dr. David Heetland, Vice President for Development. All of these efforts have been challenging and have required careful attention to detail, but we are beginning to see the fruit of our labor and should celebrate our accomplishments to date.

Looking Ahead

It is an honor to serve as president during this time in Garrett-Evangelical’s history. It is a proud moment to witness the end of the historic $100 million Forging Our Future capital campaign. Amidst the celebration, I remain steadfast in my commitment to the promises I made to you in my inaugural address. Now is not the time to rest on our laurels. It is rather a time to be steadfast in pursuing the goals we have set and to continue fulfilling our identity as a servant seminary of Jesus Christ, boldly believing with former president, Horace Greenly Smith, that Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary does have a place in the purposes of God. n

Cordially,

Lallene J. RectorPresident

Garrett-Evanston CDF Freedom Schools Program


June 4: Iowa Annual Conference, Des Moines, IA June 5: Northern Illinois Annual Conference, St. Charles, IL June 8: Great Rivers Annual Conference, Co-led community organizing workshop with Dr. Angela Cowser, Peoria, ILJune 10: Wisconsin Annual Conference, Madison, WIJune 21: June 23: University Senate, Atlanta, GAJune 26: Small Information Gathering and Preached at Hennepin UMC, Minneapolis, MN: “Called by Love; Called to Love”June 28: ATS Biennial, St. Louis, MO

July 8: Read aloud at Garrett-Evanston Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools ProgramJuly 13: Jurisdictional Conference, Peoria, IL; Met with Bishops Keaton and OughJuly 19: Provided greeting to the ACTS gathering at Chicago Theological Seminary, Chicago, ILJuly 28: Meeting with Bishops Keaton and Beard’s Cabinet, Springfield, IL

Aug 21: Remarks at celebration for Bishop Tracy Smith Malone, Wheaton, ILAug 29: Faculty Retreat, Northbrook, IL

Sept 12: All Employees MeetingSept 13: Board of Directors Meeting for GBHEM, Nashville, TN

Sept 19: Iliff Dean’s Search Consultation, Denver, COSept 22: ATS Governance Project, Pittsburgh, PASept 24: Meeting with Rev. Dr. Bob Burkhart and Dr. David Glenn-Burns, University of Northern Iowa Wesley Foundation, Des Moines, IASept 24: Small Information Gathering and Preached at Grace UMC, Des Moines, IA: “Who, me?Sept 25: Installation of Bishop Laurie Haller, Des Moines, IA

Oct 3: All Employees MeetingOct 6: GBHEM Board of Ordained Ministries Quadrennial Training Event - Spoke on behalf of AUMTS, Chicago, ILOct 11: Student Conversations with President RectorOct 20: Board of Trustees MeetingOct 23: AUMTS Meeting, Methodist Theological School in Ohio, Delaware, OHOct 29: Center for Music and Worship in the Black Church Experience, Jubalani: A Concert of Remembering and RejoicingOct 31: All Employees Meeting

Nov 11: Small Information Gathering and Preaching, Kalamazoo, MI: “Called to Persevere . . . Anyway”Nov 14: Interfaith Luncheon with Northwestern University, Dr. Wonhee Anne JohNov 15: Student Conversations with President Rector

Nov 18: New Room Editorial Board Meeting; American Academy of Religion and Society of Biblical Liturgy, San Antonio, TXNov 20: GBHEM Editorial Board Meeting, San Antonio, TXNov 30: Preached in the Chapel of the Unnamed Faithful: “Preparing Hearts of Hospitality”

Dec 5: All Employees MeetingDec 13: Faculty and Staff Holiday Party

Jan 15: Interfaith Martin Luther King, Jr. Service, Alice Millar Chapel, Evanston, ILJan 17: Panelist for PhD Discussion on Race, Gender, Culture, and ClassJan 18: Town Hall MeetingJan 19: Meeting with President Troy Hammond, North Central College, Naperville, ILJan 21: ATS Women’s Presidents Intensive and Presidents’ Leadership Seminar, San Antonio, TXJan 26: University Senate Board Meeting, Nashville, TN

Feb 1: Preached at the Black History Month Opening Chapel Service: “Accidental Hypocrisy”Feb 12: Preached, First United Methodist Church, Park Ridge, IL: “Choose Life: Turning Faith, Hope, and Love into Action”Feb 13: All Employees Meeting Feb 15: Committee on Personnel, Policies, and Practices, Nashville, TNFeb 25: Tribute, Dr. Emma Justes’ Memorial Service, St. John’s AME, Aurora, IL

Feb 27: Respondent at the 43rd Annual John Wesley Theological Institute, Sycamore United Methodist Church, Sycamore, ILFeb 27: AUMTS Meeting, Wesley Theological Seminary, Washington, DC

Mar 6: All Employees MeetingMar 8: Meeting with President Greg Henson, Sioux Falls Seminary, Sioux Falls, SDMar 10: Small Group Facilitator, UMC Colloquy, Candler, Atlanta, GAMar 22: Meeting with Sacred Worth for discussion of UMC Colloquy

April 3: All Employees MeetingApril 21: Visit with Jerre and Mary Joy Stead, Scottsdale, AZApril 23: Retirement Event for Daniel Aleshire, Executive Director of ATS, Pittsburg, PAApril 25: Student Conversations with President Rector

May 2: Decision 1341 Conversation with Students, Faculty, and Staff, Howes ChapelMay 8: All Employees MeetingMay 10: Class of 2017 Graduates LuncheonMay 10: The Center for the Church and the Black Experience Generations GalaMay 11: Board of Trustees MeetingMay 12: 160th Commencement May 15: Interfaith Luncheon with Northwestern University, Dr. Christine HelmerMay 16: ATS Governance Project, Pittsburgh, PA

President’s ActivitiesJune 2016

August 2016

September 2016

October 2016

November 2016


July 2016

December 2016

January 2017

February 2017

March 2017

April 2017

May 2017


W e equip our students to proclaim the Good News of the Gospel, to foster deep spirituality in the lives of others, to serve with cultural competence and commitment to racial equity, and to lead transformative change for the wellbeing of all persons and creation. At Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary we want our graduates to thrive as public theologians in their communities. Being a public theologian means being able to bring the resources of our faith to the public square with concern for “the common good.” We have pursued work in three focal areas: race/non-violence, child advocacy, and environmental sustainability. The following are updates in each area.

Race/Non-ViolenceThe Center for the Church and the Black Experience (CBE) under the leadership of its director, Dr. Angela Cowser, Assistant Professor of the Sociology of Religion, is one of the main conduits attending to our work in race/non-violence. This year CBE celebrated its 45th Anniversary as a beacon of hope and inspiration for Black students, pastors, churches, and communities. CBE has been instrumental in expanding learning and understanding for the entire seminary. While it seeks to address the unique challenges facing Black people, the center also works to educate and inspire all persons who live, work, and study at the seminary.

February 1 | Chapel Service Preacher: Dr. Lallene J. Rector, President

February 2 | Lecture The Underground Railroad as an Ongoing Site of Resistance and AffirmationDr. Larry Murphy, Emeritus Professor of the History of Christianity

February 9 | Panel Discussion Being My Sibling’s Keeper: A Dialogue on Race, Policing, and the Christian Call to ActionCo-Sponsored by Sheil Catholic Center and CBE

February 15 | Chapel Service Preacher: Rev. Harriette Cross, Senior Pastor of Englewood-Rust United Methodist Church

February 16 | Lecture The Underground Railroad: Our Journey ContinuesGlennette Turner, Author, Historian, and Educator

February 28 | Panel Discussion The Underground Railroad’s Legacy: Uniting Together as a Form of ResistanceSponsored by the Garrett-Evangelical Black Seminarians (G-EBS) Student Group

It recently marked its 45th Anniversary with a Generations Gala honoring the CBE 45 Outstanding Alums and the Garrett-Evangelical Black Seminarian 2017 graduates. They welcomed 260 guests to the celebration, which included a keynote address by Bishop Gregory G.M. Ingram of the First Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. This gala also marked

the first phase of CBE’s effort to raise $1 million to permanently endow its work. This will ensure that academic and vocational initiatives focused on the multifaceted nature of Black life remains an essential component of the seminary’s institutional identity and curriculum. To learn more about CBE or to give, go to www.Garrett.edu/CBE.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2017 | SPONSORED BY CBEThe Underground Railroad as a Mode of Resistance to Oppression and Tyranny

PUBLIC THEOLOGY INITIATIVESW


Our Hispanic-Latinx Center is growing in its presence and influence on our race/non-violence work. Dr. Débora Junker, Director of the Hispanic-Latinx Center, has revived the work of the center including re-naming it, adding new volunteer activities, and offering

“lunch and learn” discussions. In 2016, the center installed the Cátedra Paulo Freire, which promotes educational events, research activities, and the enrichment of dialogue among students, faculty, religious leaders, and community members. The Cátedra is a resource for Latinx communities encouraging their engagement and interaction with the realities and contexts of the Latinx population in the U.S., and at the same time enhances relationships with the Garrett-Evangelical community.

The theme of this year’s Cátedra was “Liberating Hope within a Traumatized World” and featured Dr. Antonia Darder as the keynote speaker. Her address was titled, “Friere and the Struggle for Our Humanity: Toward a Decolonizing Pedagogy.” She is a distinguished international Freirean scholar and a public intellectual, educator, writer, activist,

and artist. Garrett-Evangelical faculty members Drs. Nancy Bedford, Angela Cowser, and Timothy Eberhart participated in panel responses and led group discussions on Friday related to their own disciplines. Dr. Bedford’s group discussion was titled, “Latin-x and Latin American Perspectives on Liberating Hope; Dr. Cowser’s, “Hope and Power in the Midst of Violence and Trauma;” and Dr. Eberhart’s, “Regenerating Hope: Biocultural Pedagogy in the Age of Anthropocene.” This is a wonderful annual event serving as an expression of our commitment to public theology and the Hispanic/Latinx community within and outside our walls. To learn more about the Cátedra, go to www.Garrett.edu/Catedra.

Related to immigration concerns, our community has also been exploring how we may collaborate with Northwestern University student groups and Evanston Mayor Elizabeth Tisdahl and upon her retirement Evanston’s new mayor Steve Hagerty in supporting the sanctuary movement.

Child AdvocacyIn summer 2016, we opened the Garrett-Evanston Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) Freedom Schools® program in partnership with Friendship Baptist Church and the Evanston community thanks to the work of its co-directors, Garrett-Evangelical’s Christian Education professors, Drs. Reginald Blount and Virginia Lee. The CDF Freedom School’s program is a six-week, high-

quality, literacy-rich program free to underserved children that has been proven to curb summer learning loss and help close achievement gaps. Thirty-five children in 4th, 5th, and 6th grade participated. These scholars were from Evanston’s Fifth Ward, a ward of primarily Black and Brown people and the only ward in Evanston without it’s own elementary school. The program was a resounding success. Parents saw their children fall in love with reading and excited to go to school each day. And, we were excited to learn in January, that the Garrett-Evanston CDF Freedom Schools program was again approved for summer 2017 in the fifth ward, with the Fleetwood-Jourdain Center as a new partner.

In honor of the 20th Anniversary of the Order of Deacons, Garrett-Evangelical launched a new Deacon Fellows Program. The first cohort starts fall 2017. As a Deacon Fellow, a student will be a part of a cohort that has meals together with the Director of Deacon Studies, Dr. Virginia Lee, once or twice a semester; has opportunities to network with deacons in the Chicagoland area; connects through a Garrett-Evangelical Deacons Facebook group; is invited to the Deacon Dialogue –a gathering for deacons from around the country, every other year, for workshops, worship and networking; and has opportunities for internships both inside and outside the local church, including an internship at the Garrett-Evanston CDF Freedom Schools program.

Dr. Antonia Darder, Keynote, 2017 Cátedra Paulo Freire

public theology initiatives

Environmental SustainabilityGarrett-Evangelical’s commitment to environmental sustainability is to integrate ecological perspectives and sustainable practices throughout the curriculum, worship, and spiritual life programming; buildings and grounds; and administrative operations of the seminary. Much of this work is branded sustainGETS including a student group sharing this name. The initiative touches a number of academic and institutional areas within and outside our walls and is led by Dr. Timothy Eberhart, Assistant Professor of Theology and Ecology, with the support of Ms. Erin Moore, Director of Strategic Initiatives. In 2016-17, Eberhart and Moore hired Ms. Liz Lwanga, an MTS student, as the first sustainGETS Associate to ensure greater progress on the seminary’s sustainability plans.

Dr. Eberhart made significant contributions to further curricular offerings, worship/spiritual life, and programming. In addition to his normal teaching load, in January Eberhart offered a special course/trip with MTSO professor, Dr. Timothy Van Meter: “Chiapas, Mexico: Liberation, Autonomy, and Interdependence.” The course provided contextual theological-ethical engagement on issues of indigenous sovereignty, economic and ecological justice, alternatives to neoliberal globalization, and the role of the church in struggles for liberation. Eberhart also wrote the “Hope for Creation” endowment campaign statement to position Garrett-Evangelical for ecological renewal.

The campaign will seek to raise funds to strengthen our long-standing commitments to ecological justice in three distinct but overlapping ways:

1. By educating ecologically literate leaders for faithful service to the church and the world;

2. By integrating sustainable practices and ecological awareness throughout the life of the seminary; and

3. By expanding our public engagement for the sake of environmental and social regeneration.

To read more, go to www.Garrett.edu/sustainGETS and then select, “Growing for the Future.”

As you will see elsewhere in the report, Eberhart led a workshop in Madison, WI (see Connectional

Learning page 13) and participated in the Cátedra (see “Race/Non-Violence” section). Through the work of Eberhart and Lwanga, sustainGETS invited two lecturers to campus this year. In February, we welcomed Garrett-Evangelical alum, Dr. Ventra Asana, who lectured on, “Eco-Ministry as Spiritual Healing in the African American Beloved Community.” In April, as a part of the Earth Week celebrations, Dr. Beth Norcross provided a lecture titled, “Praying the Book of Nature.”

The class of 2017’s gift is to support the creation of a community garden in Evanston’s 5th Ward as a part of their commitment to ecojustice, providing fruits, vegetables, and herbs to an underserved area of Evanston. n


April 17-21 Bike to School Week

A Blessing of the Bikes was held on April 18

April 19 Chapel Service

Spiritual Practice in Nature: Our First Way of Knowing God Preacher: Beth Norcross

April 20 sustainGETS Lecture

Praying the Book of NatureBeth Norcross, Founding Director of the Center for Spirituality in Nature

April 23 Movie Night

The True Cost

April 29 People’s Climate March

Students and faculty participated in the People’s Climate Movement March in Chicago to stand up for our communities and climate.

EARTH WEEK 2017 | SPONSORED BY THE SUSTAINGETS GROUPOpportunities to learn, engage, and discuss environmental care and sustainability.

public theology initiatives

On March 18, 2017, Connectional Learning offered its first regional “Garrett on the Road” event in Madison, WI at First United Methodist Church Madison. Rev. Dr. Timothy Eberhart led a workshop titled, “Hope for Creation: Exploring Practical Ways People of Faith are Engaging in Mission and Justice for the Good of the Earth.” “Garrett on the Road” events include a faculty-led workshop offered in partnership with a congregation outside the Evanston/Chicago area. We invite our alums in that area or state, members of the church hosting us, local social service organizations, prospective students, and clergy and laity who may be interested in the topic. The first event was a success with more than 100 participants. We plan another trip to Madison and will add more stops around the North Central Jurisdiction in 2017-18.

The “Such a Time as This” Webinar Series began on April 25, 2017 with Dr. Angela Cowser and Rev. Yehiel Curry’s webinar “The Relational Meeting: Christian Leaders in Search of Strength and Anger.” These one hour webinars offered by faculty and/or practitioners during a lunch hour respond to the needs and concerns of clergy, lay people, and congregations in these tumultuous times. The webinars are focused on providing theological


education and practical tools for faith-based activism. This series will continue in the 2017-18 academic year and is being coordinated by Rev. April-McGlothin-Eller.

Please visit, www.Garrett.edu/ConnectionalLearning, in June to see the new site and check back often for the latest offerings. n

CONNECTIONAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

CONNECTIONAL LEARNING

Intersections

Intersections is an innovative continuing education program that enables participants to earn a 0.5 Continuing Education Units (CEU) online. The newest online offerings include:

• “Ecological Ministry as Spiritual Healing in the African American Beloved Community” Rev. Dr. Ventra Asana, Visiting Lecturer

• “Evangelism and Radicalization” Dr. Mark Teasdale, Garrett-Evangelical

• “Thou Shalt Own Thy Own Business: The Ethics, Theologies, and Practices Between Black Business, Christian Capitalism, and Black Congregations” Dr. Angela Cowser, Garrett-Evangelical

• “Common Worship: Tradition, Formation, Mission” Dr. Ron Anderson, Garrett-Evangelical

Rueben Job Institute for Spiritual Formation

The Rueben Job Institute for Spiritual Formation is directed by Dr. Frederick Schmidt, Rueben P. Job Associate Professor of Spiritual Formation. The Institute features Dr. Schmidt’s blog, “What God Wants for Your Life,” as seen on Patheos and, at times, Huffington Post. Through this Institute, we also offer Spiritual Formation/Direction online courses coordinated by Dr. Dwight Judy, Professor Emeritus of Spiritual Formation. Online courses offered in 2016-17 included:

• “Discernment in Spiritual Direction”• “Retreat/Small Group Leadership Training”• “Retirement as Spiritual Pilgrimage”• “Desert Spirituality: Wisdom from

the Ammas and Abbas”• “Interfaith Spirituality for Christians”

Ray Receives Exemplary Teaching AwardDr. Stephen Ray, the Neal F. and Ila A. Fisher Professor of Systematic Theology, received the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry’s Exemplary Teaching Award. This program expresses the church’s support of and appreciation for faculty who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, excellence in teaching, service

to students, and commitment to education. President Lallene J. Rector and Academic Dean Luis R. Rivera reviewed course evaluations which testified to Ray’s strengths as an educator and advisor.

Faculty Named to the New Room Books Editorial Board Dr. Margaret Ann Crain, Professor Emeritus of Christian Education; Dr. Lallene J. Rctor, Associate Professor Psychology of Religion and Pastoral Psychotherapy; and Dr. K.K. Yeo, the Harry R. Kendall Professor of New Testament were named to the board of New Room Books, the academic publishing imprint of the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of The United Methodist Church.

New Room Books is a reviewed academic monograph series that will offer scholars and students a way to share the benefits of research and in-depth study. “Each member of the New Room Books editorial board is an accomplished scholar, having produced work that impacts their field and are, as such, well regarded in academic circles and in the church,” said Dr. Matthew Charlton, Assistant General Secretary in the Division of Higher Education at GBHEM.

Holliman Announces Retirement

Pamela J. Holliman, Associate Professor of Pastoral Theology and Pastoral Psychotherapy, will retire on June 30, 2017 after serving nine years on the faculty. Holliman was instrumental in designing, implementing, and directing the clinical track in the master of arts in

pastoral care and counseling and the doctor or philosophy in pastoral theology, personality and culture degree programs. She also served as Director of Digital Learning for four years and Director of Institutional Assessment for eight years. “Garrett-Evangelical has been central to my life in providing a foundation for my professional and personal development through the years,” said Holliman. “I remain humbled and grateful for the many influences.”

Duck Completes Stepdown Retirement

Ruth C. Duck, Professor of Worship, completed stepdown retirement in December 2016. Duck served on the faculty for 27 years. She is a distinguished scholar, devoted and beloved teacher, and a celebrated hymnist. Duck has written 160 hymns and psalm paraphrases, which have appeared in many hymnals and supplements

in the United States, Canada, Hong Kong, Australia, Scotland, and England. An ordained pastor in the United Church of Christ, she has also edited three books of worship resources, including Worship for the Whole People of God (Westminster John Knox, 2013).


FACULTY AND STAFF HIGHLIGHTS

2016-2017 Staff Recognition Awards

In 2015, President Lallene J. Rector cre-ated the Staff Recognition Award as a way to recognize and reward two staff mem-bers each year who are exemplary in their performance. Our 2017 recipients were Mr. Zdravko Grahovac and Ms. Krista J. McNeil.

Grahovac, Lead Mechanic, has worked at the seminary for 22 years. Born and

raised in Mostar, Bosnia, Grahovac came to the United States in 1994 when war-torn Bosnia was no longer safe for his family. Volunteers from First United Methodist Church of Evanston helped Grahovac and his family settle into their new life in Chicago. They were also instrumental in getting Grahovac a job interview at the seminary in April of 1995. Upon being hired, Grahovac anticipated he would work at the seminary for a couple of years. Twenty-two years later, you’ll still find him maintaining the seminary’s apartments, buildings, and grounds. When asked why he stayed all these years Grahovac said, “The people! We’ve had a great team and working for one of the top theological schools in the nation has been my pleasure.”

McNeil, Administrator for Academic Affairs, is a 2008 Master of Theological Studies alum. She began working in the Alum Relations and Development Office in 2009. In 2010, she joined the Academic Affairs Office. Since then, McNeil has worked on behalf of the faculty, students, and staff, serving on numerous committees and special projects. She brings a wealth of knowledge and abundant energy to her work. Upon receiving this award, McNeil said, “I am honored to be recognized for my work and thankful to be part of this community. Every day I am surrounded by theologians and theologians-in-training who seek to bring justice, social transformation, and to embody God’s love. Having the opportunity to serve them and to learn from them is a gift I do not take for granted.”

2016-2017 SABBATICAL LECTURES

September 20 | Dr. Pamela J. HollimanRacism and the Unconscious: A Challenge for Practical Theology

October 25 | Dr. James L. PapandreaThe Earliest Christologies: Orthodoxy, Integrity, and the Boundaries of an Identity

November 1 | Dr. Barry BryantThe Geometry of Methodism: Square Pegs in Round Holes

November 29 | Dr. Angela CowserThou Shalt Own Thy Own Business: The Ethics, Theologies, and Practices Between Black Entrepreneurs, Christian Capitalism, and Black Congregations

February 7 | Dr. Charles CosgroveLamenting Macrina: Dynamics of Grief and Gender in the Ancient Church

February 14 | Dr. E. Byron (Ron) AndersonCommon Worship: Tradition, Formation, Mission

March 21 | Dr. Cheryl AndersonWhat About Females? The Continuing Challenges of the HIV/AIDS Pandemic

April 18 | Dr. Hendrik PieterseOne Spirit, Many Tongues: Intercultural Theology and the Challenge of Theology in a Global Church

To watch any of the 2016-2017 Sabbatical Lectures, go to www.YouTube.com/GarrettSeminary.


faculty and staff highlights


New Staff Members

Ms. Liz C. Lwanga Executive Assistant to the President

I am thrilled about the opportunity to use my skills, passions, and education in service to the President’s Office and the mission of Garrett-Evangelical. In addition, I look forward to continuing to work with

Ms. Erin Moore, Dr. Timothy Eberhart, and the sustainGETS group to help advance the seminary’s sustainability efforts.

Ms. Jennifer Moe Young Adult Initiative Program Coordinator

I am very excited to be working on the Young Adult Initiative. In my role as program coordinator, I get to be part of every aspect of the Initiative and am able to see first-hand how a

grant from Lilly becomes an extraordinary opportunity for Garrett-Evangelical and the congregations involved in the Initiative.

Mr. Jordan N. SprungerAcquisitions and Serials Specialist

Having worked for the library as a student worker prior to this position, I’ve had the pleasure of working on behalf of our library patrons for a couple of years. In that time the library has really

begun to feel like home and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the seminary community in this new role.

Promotions and Organizational Changes

faculty and staff highlights

Ms. Lynn Berg Assistant Director of Technical ServicesI am grateful to serve our library patrons by providing the resources needed to bolster their ministries.

Rev. Dr. Kenneth Ehrman Director of Field Education It is a privilege to be involved in the formation and development of students preparing for ministry.

Rev. Katherine L. Fahey Director of Admissions and RecruitmentIt is always a delight to work with prospective students and to share what the seminary has to offer. I look forward to continuing this work in an in-depth way.

Dr. Déborah B. Agra JunkerDean of International StudentsIn the role, I treasure the opportunity to journey with our students and observe as they flourish in their lives and ministries.

Ms. Wendy H. KneerAssociate Director of Field EducationI have enjoyed helping students discern their field internship sites and it has been exciting to work on the transition to the new Field Education curriculum.

Ms. Andrea M. Leftwich Academic Advisor and DMin CoordinatorI am delighted to assist students as they find their place in the community and plan for their academic program.

Rev. Benjamin Ledell Reynolds Dean of StudentsAbsolutely thrilled to bring gifts and graces for ministry to the Office of Student Life. It’s a God-call opportunity!

Ms. Mary-Carol E. Riehs Access and Public Services LibrarianI’m excited to add reference services to my other responsibilities at the library. I thrive on connecting people and ideas.

Ms. Tasha N. Sargent Assistant Director of CommunicationsI’m excited to share and promote Garrett-Evangelical’s good work through our digital reach and engagement with alums, friends, and prospective students.

Minister Brian E. Smith Associate Director of DevelopmentThe blessing of serving in the role is the constant reminder that the ways in which we use our resources is a direct representation of the measure of our faith.


Rev. Dr. David L. Heetland, Vice President for Development at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, was honored with the Eliza Garrett Distinguished Service Award for the successful completion of the Forging Our Future capital campaign, raising over $100 million for scholarship, faculty, program, and unrestricted support. President Lallene J. Rector presented Heetland with the award at the Board of Trustees meeting on May 11, 2017.

Heetland, currently the seminary’s longest serving employee, came to Garrett-Evangelical in 1983 and has been fundraising ever since. In 2003, as a part of the seminary’s sesquicentennial celebration, the Forging Our Future campaign was publicly launched with a goal of $35 million. Just three years later, the goal was raised to $60 million and upon completion in 2009 the Board of Trustees unanimously voted to raise the goal again to $100 million. With the completion of the Forging Our Future capital campaign, Heetland has overseen the most successful capital campaign in the seminary’s history, raising over $100 million and doing so six months ahead of schedule. Worth noting, the seminary did not rely on a professional firm or consultants for any part of this capital campaign, but trusted Heetland to lead every step of the way.

While the gifts and expertise Heetland has brought to the seminary over the last 34 years are immeasurable, perhaps his greatest contribution is his commitment to understanding fundraising as a vocation and living out a theology of stewardship. In his book, Fundamentals of Fund Raising (Discipleship Resources, 1989), Heetland writes, “I have come to see fundraising not simply as a satisfying career, but as a vitally important ministry.” Time and again the seminary has seen the results of his ministry

through what he calls “happy surprises,” or simply put, that inspired moment when someone says “yes.” Through every phone call, appeal, visit, Small Informational Gathering, Ministry Sunday, and more, Heetland has modeled a theology of stewardship that recognizes “God is the source of all gifts” and Jesus “invites persons to use these gifts in a manner which benefits all creation and demonstrates a commitment to God.”1

An ordained minister in full connection with the Dakotas Conference of The United Methodist Church, Heetland is the author of numerous articles, a sought-out speaker, and a Certified Financial Planner. He holds a bachelor of arts degree from the University of South Dakota, MDiv and ThD degrees from The Iliff School of Theology in Denver, and a Diploma in Theology from Cambridge University in Cambridge, England.

During Heetland’s tenure at Garrett-Evangelical, the seminary has held the distinct honor of being the only seminary in the United States to be recognized as one of the top seminaries in fundraising for 31 years in a row, as reported by the Council for Aid to Education. For this, and so much more, the seminary will be forever indebted to Heetland.

The Eliza Garrett Distinguished Service Award is presented in the name and spirit of Eliza Clark Garrett, who was the inspiration and chief benefactor/founder of Garrett Biblical Institute. Founded in 1853, the school has grown and evolved into Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. The award is given to honor persons who, by their imaginative acts of communal restoration and healing, reflect God’s mission and purposes for our world. n

1 David L. Heetland, Fundamentals of Fund Raising (Discipleship Resources, 1989), 21.

ELIZA GARRETT DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

STUDENT ENROLLMENT SUMMARY STUDENTS ENTERING IN 2016-2017

DENOMINATIONAL INFORMATION FIELD EDUCATION STUDENTS BY REGION

1532816596819111038

402

Master of DivinityMaster of ArtsMaster of Theological StudiesDoctor of MinistryDoctor of PhilosophyBGTS/Deacon StudiesUMC CertificationAdvanced Course of StudySpecial Students

Total Enrollment

45%55%

47%31%13%8%1%

140

MaleFemale

WhiteAfrican-American/BlackAsianHispanicTwo or More

New Students

UMC: 64%

Lutheran: 3%Presbyterian: 3%

Non-denominational: 3%

Baptist: 6%

Pan-Methodist: 8%

72% participated in a church placement

34 denominations are represented in the student body.

15% health-related chaplaincy and clinical pastoral education (CPE)

5% university chaplaincy

8% non-profit settings

In 2016-2017, 64 students participated in a field education placement. Midwest: 62% Northeast: 4%

South: 17%West: 6%

11% of our students represent the countries of Brazil, Canada, China, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Liberia, Mexico, Myanmar, Pakistan, Peru, South Korea, Tanzania, and the United Kingdom

Student Body: Facts and Figures


Episcopal: 2%

We are grateful for the many alums, friends, trustees, churches, foundations, and corporations who have supported Garrett-Evangelical this year with their prayers, wise counsel, and generous financial gifts. As of April 30, 2017, Garrett-Evangelical had received $6.5 million in outright gifts for the 2016-17 fiscal year. The following is an update on the three areas of gift support:

Gifts to Current Operations

Gifts to the current operations totaled $3,820,899 as of April 30, a record high. We are especially pleased to have received two outstanding grants this year from the Lilly Endowment.

Gifts to Forging Our Future: The Final Lap

Garrett-Evangelical has surpassed the seminary’s $100 million Forging Our Future capital campaign goal. Gifts and commitments have been received for the following areas:

Unrestricted Support Garrett-Evangelical is extremely fortunate to have surpassed its original goal of $45 million in unrestricted support, with a total of $53.2 million received to date. We hope that unrestricted support will continue to grow until the campaign ends on June 30. Unrestricted gifts give the seminary the greatest flexibility to address new and emerging goals and to stay on the cutting edge of theological education.

Scholarship Support Garrett-Evangelical has received $37.4 million toward its $40 million goal for endowed scholarships. Several new scholarships were started this year by alums, friends, and churches, and many gifts were also received for existing scholarships.

Faculty Support Garrett-Evangelical has received $8.1 million toward its $12 million goal for endowed faculty support. We hope to reach the $12 million goal by endowing at least two more faculty chairs.

Program Support Garrett-Evangelical has received $2.3 million toward its $3 million goal for endowed program support. The seminary hopes to raise at least $1 million to enhance the viability and visibility of The Church and the Black Experience Center. Successfully reaching this goal will put the program support goal over the top.

Planned Gift Commitments

A total of $2,104,308 was received in new planned gift commitments as of April 30. The seminary is now aware of 862 planned gift commitments, with an estimated value of $38.3 million. This bodes well for the future of Garrett-Evangelical as planned gift commitments are essential for the seminary’s long-term financial well-being. We hope that many more alums and friends will include Garrett-Evangelical in their estate planning in the months and years ahead so that Garrett-Evangelical can continue to fulfill its mission of preparing bold Christian leaders well into the future! n

We are thrilled that we have surpassed the $100 million mark! However, we will continue to receive gifts to the capital campaign since not all campaign goals have been met and there are still some folks wanting to make campaign gifts who have not yet done so. We will officially conclude our campaign on June 30—six months ahead of schedule!

-Rev. Dr. David L. Heetland Vice President for Development

Development Highlights


The 2016-2017 President’s Report is produced by the President’s Office and the Communications Office of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary under the direction of Lallene J. Rector, President, Erin B. Moore, Director of Strategic Initiatives, and Shane A. Nichols, Director of Communications. Photography: Burlingham Productions, Sean Crews, and Shane Nichols.


LEADERSHIP TEAM

Lallene J. Rector President and Associate Professor of Psychology of Religion and Pastoral Psychotherapy

Rebecca J. EberhartVice President for Student Services

David L. HeetlandVice President for Development

Dale R. McClainVice President for Business Affairs and Chief Financial Officer

Erin B. MooreDirector of Strategic Initiatives

Luis R. RiveraVice President for Academic Affairs and Academic Dean

FACULTY

ADMINISTRATION AND STAFF

Cheryl B. Anderson E. Byron Anderson Trina A. ArmstrongNancy E. Bedford Reginald Blount Gennifer B. Brooks Barry E. Bryant

Jaeyeon Lucy Chung Charles H. CosgroveAngela R. Cowser Julie A. Duncan Timothy R. Eberhart David A. Hogue Pamela J. Holliman

Wonhee Anne Joh Anna M. JohnsonVirginia A. LeeG. Brooke Lester James L. Papandrea Hendrik R. Pieterse Stephen G. Ray, Jr.

Lallene J. Rector Luis R. RiveraFrederick W. Schmidt Mark R. Teasdale Osvaldo D. Vena Brent P. WatersKhiok-Khng Yeo

Ceciley R. AkinsJacqueline AzpeitiaLynn Berg Kevin J. BlazekStephanie K. Bliese Bonnie S. Brantley Eduardo CancholaJean R. Crawford Kenneth EhrmanKatherine L. Fahey

Jason M. GillZdravko GrahovacDébora B. JunkerTércio B. JunkerWendy H. KneerCheryl L. LarsenAndrea M. Leftwich Draźen “Doug” LovrinovicLiz C. LwangaApril K. McGlothin-Eller

W. Vincent McGlothin-Eller Krista J. McNeil Jennifer MoeMechelle Moore Robert J. MorrisShane A. Nichols Joseph A. OliphantTremayne Porter Benjamin Ledell Reynolds Mary-Carol E. Riehs

Judith C. Russell Tanya J. Saeed Tasha N. SargentTina N. Shelton Brian E. SmithJordan N. Sprunger Robert H. Sutton Douglas W. VernonWarren Watson

FACULTY EMERITIDiane M. Capitani Hwa-Young Chong Mark A. Fowler Diane W. HogueKarla M. KincannonStephanie Perdew VanSlykeRené Such Schreiner Steven G. Trefz

Phyllis A. Bird Alva R. Caldwell Donald F. Chatfield Margaret Ann Crain Ruth C. DuckDwight H. JudyTaylor McConnell Larry G. Murphy

James N. PolingRosemary Radford RuetherK. James SteinJack L. Seymour Richard TholinBarbara B. Troxell Kenneth L. VauxDwight W. Vogel

Linda J. VogelDouglas E. WingeierHenry J. Young

AFFILIATE FACULTY

Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary is a servant seminary dedicated to preparing spiritually grounded and prophetic leaders for the church, the world, and the academy who are well equipped to:

1. Proclaim the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a religiously pluralistic world;

2. Guide others in a life of deep spiritual formation and commitment;

3. Serve with culturally sensitive competence;4. Collaborate as public theologians with others for the

wellbeing of all persons and creation;5. Lead transformative change for the sake of the world.

Garrett-Evangelical is a servant seminary dedicated to partnership with the church.

Garrett-Evangelical is a servant seminary dedicated to benefitting its surrounding community.

Garrett-Evangelical is a servant seminary dedicated to hospitality and inclusive welcome.

Garrett-Evangelical is a servant seminary embodying care for the future through generational stewardship.

Strategic Planning Vision•

Strategic Planning Kick Off | March 31, 2015

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