Full-Tuition Scholarships for Students in the Twin Cities Training for Leadership in Black Spiritual Communities
Applications for the fall 2024 cohort have been extended to August 1.
Generous donors, Frank and Robyn Sims, are the primary funders of this scholarship initiative for students in the Twin Cities. All applications must be submitted by August 1, 2024. Keep reading for additional scholarship details and criteria.
Description
The “Sims Scholars” Initiative is designed to address racial inequities in society and to educate and prepare leaders who desire to constructively engage issues confronting Black spiritual communities. Through this initiative, students will form an intentional cohort for mutual support, special studies, and mentoring.
The focus of this initiative is leadership development for persons interested in a variety of vocational pursuits: nonprofit leadership, congregational ministry, public service, and education. Members of the cohort also might include persons already ensconced in a profession but who desire theological studies that would acquaint them with the richness of Black spirituality in its contemporary forms, with attention to womanist scholarship, constructive theology, biblical hermeneutics, church history, and other areas of interest. There will also be special learning opportunities in this track that speak to Black experiences in church and society that extend beyond the core curriculum.
United is committed to systemic antiracist work. The piloting of this initiative falls under that larger undertaking. Transforming institutional culture to become a racially just learning space will be enhanced by the presence of this cohort.
Criteria for Selection
In addition to the regular criteria for admission to United, there are exemplary expectations for Sims Scholars. These criteria will ensure a high-quality experience for those selected.
Students who comprise the cohort will be exceptional in aptitude, vocational promise, and commitment to the mission of theological education. Prerequisites for admission include: a baccalaureate degree from an accredited undergraduate institution; a grade point average of a B or better; be a resident of the Twin Cities area so that the cohort can meet face to face for mentoring and special events; and commitment to being an active participant in the cohort.
Because of the selectivity of the cohort, there may be a personal interview as part of the application process. The initiative seeks persons with strong leadership promise, therefore applicants will be asked to submit an artifact that provides evidence of their vocational pursuit or prior leadership experience.
Students who apply to the Sims Scholars Initiative will also apply to the Master of Arts in Leadership degree at United with a focus on Black spiritualities. This degree can be an entry degree for those who ultimately desire the Master of Divinity. While not a dual-degree program, the curriculum of the MAL is foundational and transferrable to the MDiv.
Interest Form
Questions?
Questions related to the initiative can be directed to United’s Admissions team.