Academics Archives - United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities

April 23, 2026

Academics Announcements news

United Receives Grant from Wabash Center for Teaching and Learning in Theology and Religion

SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA, UNITED STATES, April 23, 2026. In the wake of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE’s) occupation of the Twin Cities metro region since early 2026, United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities (United) has secured a $30,000 grant to help, as the grant proposal states, “process our experiences of this time, both the blessings and the trauma, so that we can remain effective and compassionate educators and draw on our experiences in a way that expands student knowledge.” The grant, awarded April 2, will fund a two-year project titled “Teaching and Learning in the Midst of Government-Sponsored Violence.” Rev. Dr. Justin Sabia-Tanis, Associate Professor of Christian Ethics and Social Transformation, supported by the McVay Endowment, and Director of United’s Social Transformation program, envisioned, proposed, and will lead the project in collaboration with staff. “We wish to explore,” Rev. Dr. Sabia-Tanis articulated in the grant proposal, “which practices of support are effective for faculty, and other school personnel, that equip us to engage with our students in healthy, meaningful, and productive ways during this time of crisis. Drawing on what we learn, we seek to create a model of care for our seminary that can be of use to other educators who may face unprecedented and protracted times of crisis and violence.” Rev. Dr. Sabia-Tanis identified these goals: Offer effective support to seminary faculty and staff who have been impacted by Operation Metro Surge, both for the well-being of our educators and to consider how best to support students who have been traumatized by the political situation. Draw upon our experiences as practitioners in justice and peace efforts in the Twin Cities to provide meaningful learning opportunities for our students preparing for ministry and community service. Collect and preserve primary sources related to street activism and chaplaincy, and the life and teachings of faith communities as a resource for teaching about theology, worship, arts, and social movements. Make these materials accessible to a wide audience of educators, with a focus on theological educators and faith leaders. Citing United’s long history of educators acting as public theologians—60+ years of teachers who were also protesters, activists, justice-practitioners, and thought leaders—Rev. Dr. Sabia-Tanis noted that “this moment offers us the opportunity to live our faith and to transparently share that with our students.” Explaining further, he continued, “The religious imperative to act with compassion and to champion justice, especially for those who are vulnerable, is not simply an academic conversation but an authentic expression of our beliefs and convictions. Loving your enemy and welcoming the stranger are not theoretical questions but ones that demand our concrete and immediate responses daily.” In her grant award letter, Dr. Nancy Lynne Westfield, director of the Wabash Center, asserted, “Your project is poised to make a significant impact.” She added, “Thank you for your commitment to strengthening teaching and the teaching profession.” Rev. Dr. Cindi Beth Johnson, Vice President for Advancement—with whom Rev. Dr. Sabia-Tanis collaborated during the proposal process—remarks, “By virtue of our location and in honor of the stellar work that our alums, students, faculty, and community members have done, and are doing, United is uniquely qualified to lead this important project.” With support from the Wabash Center, United’s Leadership Center for Social Justice is working to gather and preserve information about non-violent resistance and resilience efforts that emerged in response to the ICE Occupation in Minnesota. We invite you to be a part of this project, especially those in Minnesota; please click here to submit resources and materials developed in response to Operation Metro Surge. About United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities Founded as a welcoming, ecumenical school that embraces all denominations and faith traditions, United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities has been on the cutting edge of progressive theological thought leadership since it was established in 1962. Today, United continues to educate leaders who dismantle systems of oppression, explore multi-faith spirituality, and push the boundaries of knowledge. About the Wabash Center for Teaching and Learning in Theology and Religion Founded in 1996 through a Lilly Endowment, Inc. “Theological Teaching Initiative” grant, the Wabash Center for Teaching and Learning in Theology and Religion in Crawfordsville, IN, exists to “enhance and strengthen education in theology and religion in theological schools, colleges, and universities.” In so doing, it aims to enhance the “impact of religious leadership on both congregations and public discourse.” Contact Nathanial Green (he/him), Director of Marketing and Communications United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities press@unitedseminary.edu • 651.255.6138

December 11, 2025

Academics Activism Black Liberation Theology Community

Alex Sánchez Rodriguez Finds Vocational Inspiration at United

Alex Sánchez Rodriguez, who plans to graduate from United in 2026 with an MA in Religion and Theology, was initially drawn to the seminary’s Interreligious Chaplaincy program. Since taking more classes, engaging with his professors, becoming involved in the Student Leadership Collective, and taking on other extracurricular activities, he has settled on a new calling. “I discovered,” Alex shares, “that I have a natural affinity toward academics.” In fact, he admits, “I want to be like my professors.” Before coming to United, Alex was a substitute teacher in Puerto Rico. Since he moved to Minnesota, he has been working in student development and promoting student success. The priority of student success is the throughline, Alex perceives, from his current role and an academic career. “If I am to go into academia,” he explains, “part of my success as a teacher, professor, and researcher depends on the success of my future students.” Alex also credits United professors for embodying the kind of academician he hopes to become. Dr. Demian Wheeler and Rev. Dr. Andrew Packman, he notes, “as academics and how they engage with their students…[are] very inspiring to…future academics.” The fact that United faculty are “so accessible and so approachable and so likeable,” Alex continues, made him realize that an academic career does not have to take place in some secluded and inaccessible “ivory tower.” United’s emphasis on interreligious engagement was another piece of Alex’s transformation. “I grew up in a very Christian environment where everything that wasn’t Christian was considered bad,” Alex recounts. After encountering the diverse faith communities of United’s students and faculty, he suggests, “it made me realize that there’s not just one path toward spirituality and divinity.” Ultimately, Alex hopes that his future work as a theologian can help fellow Puerto Ricans emerge from the shadow of colonization. “I think doing the work of theology is a way to help ’regular people’ realize that they don’t have to live as colonized individuals anymore. They have the opportunity to define who they want to be.” As Alex stated earlier this year, “While I could have chosen a different specialty or a different seminary, theology and religious studies have brought a sense of wonder that I have not experienced in any other discipline that I have studied, and United has given me more than I can name.”

September 18, 2025

Academics antiracism Black Liberation Theology Book

United Will Host Book Launch for Rev. Dr. Gary F. Green, II’s Playing the Game: Embodied Brilliance beyond the Moral Limits of Race in Sport

SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA, UNITED STATES, September 18, 2025. United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities is thrilled to be hosting a book launch to celebrate Rev. Dr. Gary F. Green, II’s upcoming publication, Playing the Game: Embodied Brilliance beyond the Moral Limits of Race in Sport, on Wednesday, November 19, starting at 7:00 PM CT. Fortress Press, which has scheduled publication for November 4, states that “Playing the Game investigates the intersection of race and ethics in cultural misinterpretations of Black athleticism in the United States.” Green is United’s associate professor of Pastoral Theology and Social Transformation and director of Racial Intelligence Systems. The book applies womanist theological ethics and theologies of embodied spirituality to three exemplars—Marshawn Lynch, Steph Curry, and Deion Sanders. These men epitomize the play of racial politics surrounding Black male athlete depictions as “beast.” All three are celebrated public figures who illustrate, and then frustrate, cultural attempts to flatten the Black athlete’s embodied brilliance based on moral rationalities that reflect a racist history. As an athlete, the son of a former NFL cornerback, and a theological scholar, Green has long been troubled by the way in which Black athletes are routinely commodified and dehumanized, especially when compared with their white counterparts. Appellations for Black athletes (including “beast”) typically focus on physical capability versus descriptors of white athletes as cognitively superior and sound in terms of character. Green argues in his book for the recognition of the divine embodiment of Black athletes and the inextricable link between mind and body. “In this soon-to-be celebrated book,” observes President Molly T. Marshall, “Dr. Gary Green emerges as both cultural critic and theological anthropologist. His keen observations about race, spirituality, and the commodification of Black players in professional sports shed light on the current zeitgeist. I believe the author opens up an uncharted critical pathway of interpretation as he writes of ‘embodied brilliance.’” Dr. Demian Wheeler, Acting Dean, adds, “Dr. Gary Green is an emerging constructive theologian whose cutting-edge research arcs across multiple academic disciplines, from pastoral theology and cultural theory, to social ethics and African American studies, to neuroscience and religion and sport. His first book, Playing the Game, promises to break new ground, illumining the divinity of Black athletes and the racial politics that work to stifle it. We are thrilled to celebrate his scholarly debut on November 19!” At the November 19 event, Green will welcome three panelists to elucidate more themes in Playing the Game: Dr. Lakisha R. Lockhart-Rusch is a womanist play facilitator and innovative educator who teaches Christian education courses at Union Presbyterian Seminary. Her most recent book is titled Doing Theological Double Dutch: A Womanist Pedagogy of Play. CJ Ham, #30, is a fullback for the Minnesota Vikings, where he has been a starter since 2017. Off the field, he takes pride in giving back. In 2024, the Vikings selected CJ as their Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominee. Tamice Spencer-Helms is both a United student and staff member. While pursuing their DMin in Social Transformation, Tamice is also serving as one of United’s amazing admissions counselors. Tamice will offer the student response. United is delighted to extend this invitation to celebrate Rev. Dr. Green’s outstanding accomplishment with his new book on November 19, 2025. View details, including onsite and online registration, here. About United Founded by the United Church of Christ (UCC) as a welcoming, ecumenical school that embraces all denominations and faith traditions, United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities has been on the creative edge of progressive theological thought and leadership since it was established in 1962. Today, United continues to train leaders who, through the eyes of faith, engage in the dismantling systems of oppression, exploring multi-faith spirituality, and pushing the boundaries of knowledge. Media Contact Nathanial Green (he/him), Director of Marketing and Communications United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities press@unitedseminary.edu • 651-255-6138

May 5, 2025

Academics Faculty gratitude VOICES

Rossmann Faculty Development Award Launches in 2025

We are thrilled to share that Jack and Marty Rossmann have endowed a fund to support faculty development at United. Jack, a current United board member, is a Professor Emeritus of Psychology at Macalester College, and Marty is a Professor Emerita of Family Education at the University of Minnesota. The Rossmanns, who prize education by word and deed, have already established faculty development and excellence awards at Macalester and the University of Minnesota. Now they have generously extended faculty support to United. As they explained recently, “Faculty excellence is crucial to the continued success of United Seminary. We hope that the Rossmann Faculty Development Award will play a role in helping to maintain that excellence.” Starting this year, United faculty members can apply for support twice each year. Applications are due either February 1 or October 1. If granted, awards will support activities such as attending professional meetings, offsetting publication-related expenses (including stipends for students who assist with publication tasks), and hiring consultants to assist with writing or teaching activities. “Jack and Marty Rossmann established this award,” noted President Molly T. Marshall, “because of their own academic careers and their love of supporting faculty development.” For their continuing service and generosity, Jack and Marty Rossmann have our deepest gratitude. We honor their lifelong commitment to education and working toward the betterment of society.

February 11, 2025

Academics Faculty Legacy united faculty

Remembering Dr. Marilyn J. Salmon, Professor Emerita of New Testament Theology

Dr. Marilyn J. Salmon, Professor Emerita of New Testament Theology (1989–2014), is fondly remembered as a committed scholar, a dedicated teacher, a faithful religious leader, and an early and passionate advocate for interfaith dialogue and understanding. Born and raised in Minnesota, Marilyn earned her BA from Concordia College, Moorhead, her MDiv from Northwestern Theological Seminary (now Luther Seminary), and her PhD from Hebrew Union College in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she developed a lifelong passion for the relationship between Christianity and Judaism. Marilyn worked on the Gospel of Luke in her doctoral dissertation and, in that research, advanced scholarship about the differences between Christian and Jewish readings of Scripture, work that she continued to explore throughout her life. Dr. Mary Farrell Bednarowski, Professor Emerita of Religious Studies, shares, “When Marilyn arrived in 1989, she was first among the ‘new’ faculty who arrived at United as members of the original faculty began to retire. Her joy in being at United and her love for her subject matter made her a delightful colleague.” Mary continues, “She certainly opened my eyes to the widespread nature of unintended anti-Judaism in Christian theology and preaching, and she was generous in sharing elements of her own spiritual journey. And, I still have her recipe for lamb stew.” Marilyn was ordained as a priest in the Episcopal Church in 1990 and served for many years at St. Clement’s Episcopal Church in St. Paul. Active in the diocese, she also worked as part of the Bishop’s Staff in the Episcopal Church in Minnesota as a Missioner for the School for Formation, helping create classes that would serve lay and ordained ministers. In these and other roles, she contributed in significant ways to the vitality and strength of the church. A challenging but revered teacher, Marilyn made a significant contribution to students’ more nuanced and broadened understanding of the New Testament. Students were encouraged to approach texts with creativity and imagination. They were invited to look for new ways to read familiar passages and to experiment with interpretation while also staying true to the text. Artist and sculptor Doug Abbott (’10) affirms that “Marilyn challenged and turned upside down a set of assumptions I had about my religious identity.… The foundation that came from the growth under her tutelage marvels me to this day.” As Karen Larson (’12) attests in a Facebook comment, “I hear her voice every time I run across a passage that sounds anti-Jewish.” Dr. Lyle Schlundt (’15) adds, “She was a great teacher. [I] will never forget her saying, ‘Jesus was a Jew talking to other Jews about Judaism.’” Maureen Smith (’01) notes, “I often quote her in the Bible study I lead at my church. I say my New Testament teacher said one of her missions in life was to restore to the Pharisees their good name.” “She was an engaging professor and always very kind to me,” asserts Amanda McElray Hunter (’10). “Her legacy and commitment to building peace through interfaith work will live on through her students.” Rev. T. Michael Rock, Director of Contextual Education and Spiritual Direction, adds, “As a contextual education supervisor for many of Dr. Salmon’s students, I was always impressed with their exegetical acumen, good historical criticism and knowledge, and practical applications of scripture. Like many gifted seminary professors, Dr. Salmon had a lasting impact on the local church through her students.” In a testament to her myriad achievements, Marilyn was awarded the Founders Medallion by the Graduate Studies department at Hebrew Union College. Awarded to a PhD graduate from at least 25 years ago, she was honored for her support of “vibrant faith communities.” Her leadership skills were also evident at United where she served in a variety of administrative roles, including acting dean. Dr. Kita McVay (’96, ’09), former United President, writes, “Marilyn and I worked closely together as colleagues when Dean Richard Weis took sabbatical and Marilyn stepped in as acting dean. Marilyn could hold in tension the multiple interests within the seminary, from fundraising to analyzing new models of education, and brought her deep experience of United and its singular identity to the role of acting dean. Her own spiritual journey had no stopping point, and Marilyn continued pushing the boundaries to find her authentic place. Her conversion to Judaism was, of course, a major milestone in the journey. She found at Mount Zion a home where her exploration could continue, a warm community, and, much too soon, a locus for final consecration.” Marilyn’s gifts to the community included leadership in interreligious engagement. For many years, she served on the Jay Phillips Center for Jewish-Christian Learning advisory board. The Center was founded in 1985 at the College (now University) of St. Thomas. A gifted speaker, she delivered lectures and led workshops locally and across the United States on the Bible, Feminism, and interfaith dialogue. She taught adult education series for churches and ecumenical and interfaith organizations, and she frequently facilitated Continuing Education workshops, helping participants find creative ways to approach the Lectionary texts for preaching. In 2006, Marilyn’s book Preaching without Contempt: Overcoming Unintended Anti-Judaism was published. She sought to address practically ways in which Christian preachers often unintentionally perpetuate anti-Judaism in their teaching and sermons. This publication, dedicated to her sons, in the hope that one day they would ask her why she had to write it, was a culmination of her lifelong work. Reflecting on her ongoing scholarship, Marilyn wrote, “I want our students to be passionate, creative, responsible interpreters of the Scriptures, knowledgeable about both ancient contexts and contemporary audience….I am committed to raising awareness of the caricatures of Judaism that permeate biblical preaching and teaching and perpetuate Christian anti-Judaism. I believe that the integrity of the Christian Gospel is at stake.” In 2015, just after her retirement, Marilyn was the Didier Seminar Speaker at The House of Hope Presbyterian Church in St. Paul, filling in for the widely respected New Testament scholar and theologian Marcus J. Borg, who had recently died. “Jesus Then and Now” was the title of her address. Later in life, Marilyn’s commitment to her scholarship and devotion to the study of theology and biblical texts led her to discern a calling away from the priesthood in the Episcopal Church and into Judaism. She became an active member and participant in her community of Mount Zion Temple in St. Paul, where she continued to share her many gifts. As President Molly T. Marshall observes, “United grieves the death of this fine scholar-practitioner who expanded the seminary’s inter-religious engagement. Treasured as a professor and beloved colleague, we give thanks for her graceful imprint.” United gives thanks for the many ways in which Marilyn served students, alums, fellow faculty, and the broader community, working to promote peace and understanding about diverse faith traditions and expressions. May her memory be a blessing for us all. A service for Marilyn was held at Mount Zion Temple in St. Paul on Thursday, February 13, at 12:30 PM. You can live-stream the service. A Celebration of Life followed the service at Shamrocks in St. Paul. Everyone was welcome at both events. For more information, you can read Marilyn’s obituary here.

July 1, 2024

Academics Scripture

The Role of Biblical Studies in Seminary

At its most basic level, biblical studies involves studying the Bible. In practice, biblical studies involve the deliberate interplay of diverse disciplines—from ancient history, philology, and theology, to literary criticism, art, and comparative religion—to gain a contextual foundation for making meaning out of the Bible’s Old Testament (Hebrew Bible) and New Testament (Christian Bible). Because of how these diverse disciplines inform the Bible and the Bible informs these disciplines, biblical studies are relevant to seminarians, whether they intend to preach, teach, write, practice art, or lead an organization. What Is Biblical Studies? The core focus of biblical studies is exegesis—a careful, analytical study of biblical texts that emerged from Judaic and Christian written traditions and became the basis for today’s Bible. To inform exegesis, subcategories of exploration include textual criticism, hermeneutics (the scholarly study of interpretation), biblical archaeology, biblical history, biblical languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek), and biblical theology. Fields that undergird exegesis call for an understanding of the geographic, historic, and linguistic context in which the humans who wrote and translated early texts existed. By examining the location, culture, time, and language in which early biblical texts came into being, we gain meaningful clues for enriching our perspective about modern translations of biblical texts. Biblical Studies vs. Theology: What Is the Difference? As discussed above, biblical studies is concerned with the Bible. Through exegesis, biblical scholars strive to gain contextual knowledge about ancient texts—including the Hebrew Bible, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and the Septuagint—and the times in which they were created to illuminate biblical comprehension. Theology, by contrast, is the broader study of God. Instead of solely examining the Bible book by book or passage by passage to discern the meaning of biblical texts, theological scholars use numerous sources to reflect on the nature of Divine reality and construct concepts, ideas, and imaginative descriptions to attempt to articulate ultimate reality. Though different in many ways, theology and biblical studies also complement one another. What Does a Biblical Studies Degree Involve? United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities offers both a Master of Arts (36-credit) and a Master of Divinity (72-credit) degree in Biblical Studies. Both degrees require students to take classes in: Religious Texts (such as the Hebrew Bible and New Testament) Theological Tradition (basic theology courses and courses that explore the history of Christian or modern theology) Ethics and Justice (including Christian or Comparative Religious Ethics) Academic Contextualization (including biblical exegesis, as well as biblical Hebrew or New Testament Greek) The MDiv in Biblical Studies degree requires a broader range of exploration that encompasses art and theology courses, world religions and global Christianity courses, a constructive theology course, and a social transformation course. It also features a section of vocational contextualization and skills courses that involve preaching, faith formation, and a congregational internship. To learn more, visit United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities’ Degree Programs page. What Can You Do with a Biblical Studies Degree? A biblical studies degree gives students an opportunity to deeply engage with the cultural and historical contexts, overarching narratives, theological themes, and critical issues of the Bible, as well as attend to the ethical implications of interpreting Scripture. These skills are well-suited for a variety of ministerial and academic roles—from parish ministry and chaplaincy to textual scholarship and teaching. A biblical studies degree opens up many meaningful and impactful opportunities for individuals seeking to make a difference in the world. With a biblical studies degree, you can pursue paths aligned with your unique interests, skills, and calling. A biblical studies degree from United will set you up for success in the following vocational paths and meaningful pursuits: Congregational Ministry: Many biblical studies MDiv graduates become ordained or licensed ministers and serve as pastors, providing spiritual leadership, guidance, and support to congregations. They have the privilege of leading worship, preaching sermons that bring the Bible to life, conducting sacraments, and offering pastoral care to individuals and communities. Public Policy and Advocacy: As a biblical studies graduate, you can contribute to shaping public policy by working in advocacy organizations, think tanks, or government agencies. Drawing on your theological understanding, analytical skills, and ethical frameworks, you can research, analyze, and advocate to influence policies addressing poverty, human rights, environmental justice, and other social concerns. Social Services and Community Development: With a biblical studies degree, you can work in various social service organizations, nonprofits, or community development agencies. This may involve coordinating programs that provide food, shelter, healthcare, and counseling services to vulnerable populations. As a seminary graduate, you can contribute your spiritual and contextual insights and compassionate approach to help uplift individuals and communities facing social challenges. Nonprofit and Community Leadership: As a biblical studies graduate, you can contribute to the nonprofit sector, assuming roles in organizations focused on research, educational pursuits, social justice, community development, advocacy, or humanitarian work. You can lead religious, or faith-based organizations, guiding their vision, mission, and community outreach efforts. Writing and Publishing: With a biblical studies degree, you can explore opportunities in writing and publishing, such as becoming an author or editor, or contributing to theological journals and publications. This avenue allows you to share insights, research, and perspectives on matters of faith, art, and spirituality. Chaplaincy: With a chaplaincy certificate, you can use your MDiv in Biblical Studies degree to work as a chaplain in various settings such as hospitals, military organizations, correctional facilities, universities, and hospices. You can offer spiritual and emotional support to individuals during challenging times—through your understanding of context—and provide counsel as well as facilitate religious services and rituals. Teaching and Education: If you are a biblical studies graduate who obtains a doctoral degree, you can pursue careers in teaching biblical studies, theological studies, or ethics at educational institutions, including seminaries, colleges, universities, and other schools. You can then inspire and educate students, fostering understanding and dialogue about faith, spirituality, and religious traditions. These are just some of the many examples, as the true possibilities are vast! A biblical studies degree equips you with a strong foundation in theology, ethics, exegesis, and spiritual leadership, enabling you to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals, communities, and society as a whole—in your own unique way. Online Biblical Studies Programs Are Flexible, Accessible, and Rigorous United’s MA and MDiv in Biblical Studies degrees are both offered online through our distance learning program. Online biblical studies courses allow for greater flexibility in studying and learning, a feature that accommodates students wherever they live and in concert with other demands on their time. In fact, not only can biblical studies students at United obtain their degree 100 percent online, but many courses are offered asynchronously! Asynchronous courses offer students additional online resources and the freedom to access course instruction and complete coursework at their own pace. Synchronous courses, by contrast, require all students to attend a live online class at the same time. A mix of synchronous and asynchronous biblical studies courses offers both the benefit of community and the flexibility of faculty-guided independent study. As United students will attest, online courses are no less rigorous than those taught in traditional in-person courses. Like the best biblical studies degree programs at other seminaries, United’s MDiv in Biblical Studies requires students to dive deeply into exegesis through intensive studies related to world religions, art and theology, religious texts, and biblical Hebrew and New Testament Greek. Is a Biblical Studies Degree Right for You? No matter what faith or belief community you come from, there is a place for you in United’s biblical studies degree programs. Whether you intend to promote biblical scholarship or serve as a teacher, preacher, or community leader, United’s programs will equip you with the knowledge, creativity, ethical grounding, and spirit of curiosity that will enhance your vocation. We invite you to sit in on a class, view our recorded past events and lunches, or set up a meeting with a faculty member or student to learn more! Interested in learning more about or pursuing a biblical studies degree at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities in Minnesota? Contact our admissions team to explore our 30+ seminary degree programs today!

June 14, 2024

Academics Announcements

Meet the Sims Scholars’ Advisory Committee

Announced in mid-February, the Sims Scholars Initiative—through which up to eight theology students in the Twin Cities can earn a tuition-free Master of Arts in Leadership degree at United—has been put into motion. At an advisory committee meeting in May, members expressed their excitement about progress made in the intervening months. Comprised of United alums, trustees, faculty, and friends who wear myriad professional hats, the committee members are committed to seeking qualified candidates and providing mentorship and advising services while the cohort attends seminary. Rev. Stacey Smith (’16), Presiding Elder for the Fourth District of the AME Church’s Chicago Annual Conference as well as a board member for United and the Minnesota Council of Churches, asserted that the initiative provides “an amazing opportunity for students to come [to United], have immediate community, [and] experience the seminary in a way that will help them blossom and gain additional skills.” Rev. Dr. DeWayne Davis, lead minister at Plymouth Congregational Church—as well as a member of United’s board and adjunct faculty—is inspired by the widening breadth of theology being explored through the program, including Black spirituality and womanist theology. His greatest hope is that the Sims Scholars will have more expansive theological conversations and make strides in “confronting the fears we hide behind boundaries that we’ve accepted from tradition.” 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. “Representation matters!” emphasized Dr. William Hart, professor of religious studies at Macalester College and United’s board secretary. Dr. Hart reflected on his experience with a Black cohort during his PhD experience at Princeton University, and noted that “having a critical mass [of similarly situated colleagues] can be incredibly powerful for students who come into a predominantly white institution.” “Who better than me to join this committee?” replied Rev. Dr. Darrell Gillespie (’23) when asked why he joined the advisory committee. Rev. Dr. Gillespie is the pastor/founder of Proverbs Christian Fellowship and a dean at Hope Academy. As someone who recently earned his DMin from United, he stated that United’s curriculum will enable students who study Black spirituality to “do church holistically well,” without the “financial burden” of earning a degree. Rev. Dr. Alika Galloway, the final member of the advisory committee, is co-pastor of Liberty Community Church, and co-founder of the Northside Healing Space and 21st Century Academy within the church. Rev. Dr. Galloway headlined at United in 2015 as that year’s 24th annual Susan Draper White lecturer, and co-taught courses with Professor Emerita of Biblical Interpretation, Rev. Dr. Carolyn Pressler. New cohort members may include persons already engaged in a profession who simply desire to learn more about the richness of Black spirituality. There will also be special learning opportunities for students that speak to Black experiences in church and society and extend beyond the core curriculum. Rev. Dr. Gary F. Green, II (associate professor of pastoral theology and social transformation), who chaired the advisory committee meeting, also came through a cohort program at Central Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas when United President Molly T. Marshall was its president. From his perspective, a supportive cohort “makes a day-to-day difference in the reality of matriculating through a [seminary] program…at a predominately white institution [where students may be] confronted with ideas…some of which are not very comfortable initially.” This program falls under the growing umbrella of United’s systemic anti-racism work, which Rev. Dr. Green leads. A retired Cargill corporate vice president and former United trustee, Frank Sims, and his wife Robyn, are the generous donors behind the Sims Scholars initiative. “I am truly impressed and inspired,” he shared after listening to committee members’ statements. Like Rev. Dr. Green and Dr. Hart, he acknowledged that a supportive cohort of peers is key in education and needed in corporate America too. We cannot overstate, President Marshall concluded, the “magnitude of inaugurating this program and the horizons that it promises.” Learn more about the Sims Scholars’ program.

January 25, 2024

Academics Announcements

United is One of Only 18 ATS-Accredited Seminaries with Five Consecutive Years of Growth

SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA, UNITED STATES, January 25, 2024. In its 2023 Holiday Colloquy Online issue, ATS (The Association of Theological Schools) noted that just 18, or 6.5 percent, of 279 ATS-accredited seminaries demonstrated steady year-over-year growth during the past five years. United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities—one of those 18—realized an 82 percent five-year growth rate, and is one of the only theologically progressive seminaries on the list. United’s growth is a remarkable achievement, especially in a timeframe when more than half of seminaries have been seeing stable or declining enrollment. As Chris Meinzer, senior director and COO at ATS, wrote, “In 2007, a shift occurred and fewer than 50 percent of ATS schools grew year-over-year;… this trend has essentially continued through fall 2023, when it is projected that 45 percent of ATS schools will have grown and 55 percent will have declined.” Reflecting on United’s appearance on the shortlist of growing seminaries, President Molly T. Marshall shares: “When looking at the ‘ecclesial family’ of schools, it is interesting to note that only Roman Catholic and Orthodox schools are showing a slight increase. Evangelical schools are down by .9 percent, and mainline schools are down by 3.6 percent. This makes United’s growth all the more significant as the trend for mainline schools is negative.” Why is United growing? President Marshall reflects: United has a desirable curriculum that emphasizes social transformation, theology and the arts, interreligious engagement, and public theology. United has gifted, student-focused faculty members who excel in their disciplines as well as their teaching. United welcomes students with myriad religious, spiritual, and theological leanings. This is reflected in the unique interreligious nature of the chaplaincy program. United has expanded online offerings to include Flex courses in both the DMin and master’s degrees to meet students’ need for scheduling flexibility. United is as interested in the questions as the answers. United envisions a future filled with hope, creativity, and sustainability. The seminary looks ahead with eager anticipation to continue realizing its mission: preparing innovative and compassionate leaders for the equipping of churches, other faith communities, and society toward justice and peace. Media Contact Nathanial Green, Director of Marketing & Communications ngreen@unitedseminary.edu About United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities Founded as a welcoming, ecumenical school that embraces all denominations and faith traditions, United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities has been on the cutting edge of progressive theological thought leadership since it was established in 1962. Today, United continues to train leaders who dismantle systems of oppression, explore multi-faith spirituality, and push the boundaries of knowledge.

November 10, 2023

Academics interfaith Interreligious

“Celebrating a Nearly Six-Decade Connection: United and Collegeville Institute”

SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA, UNITED STATES, November 10, 2023 — Founded in the 1960s, United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities and Collegeville Institute for Ecumenical and Cultural Research have been knitted together throughout their histories. At a meeting in November, the two ecumenical faith organizations will celebrate their close and enduring connection. When United President Molly T. Marshall joined the Collegeville Institute board in 2023, she joined the august company of many United administrators, faculty, and alums who have also served on the board and in other capacities over the years. These connections, spanning decades of cumulative involvement, illustrate values rooted in accordant religious objectives. President Marshall, who has more than one touchpoint with Collegeville, first became aware of the Institute in the late 1990s. In the fall of 2000, she was selected as a resident scholar, and planned to consult with the eminent pneumatology scholar, Father Kilian McDonnell, OSB, about her book—Joining the Dance: A Theology of the Spirit (2003)—and “enjoy the liturgical rhythms of the Benedictine community there.” The History This intertwining of United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities (founded in 1962) and Collegeville Institute for Ecumenical and Cultural Research (chartered in 1967 as the Institute for Ecumenical and Cultural Research) has understandably deep roots. Both organizations were founded with ecumenical intent, and both prize research and scholarship. Collegeville Institute, however, originated from the tranquil, bucolic settings of the community in which it was first imagined by a Benedictine monk from Saint John’s Abbey, Father Kilian McDonnell. Father McDonnell, now 102, was the Institute’s first president, a title he holds to this day. Collegeville Institute is irrevocably tied to its location. It anchors its ecumenical core in a setting that cannot help but evoke visceral rapture at the soothing call of nature. It was constructed with walls of windows on the shores of Stumpf Lake by the Hungarian modernist architect Marcel Breuer, who had designed Saint John’s Abbey a few years before. As the Institute’s written history attests, “The cry of loons was considered a fitting, even necessary, backdrop to the work to be done.” United, born out of the United Church of Christ (UCC) and grounded in the urgent needs of an ever-changing world, continues to confront forces that would reject Christ’s call for justice, peace, and belonging for all of creation. Our setting, inside an old industrial building at the heart of the urban Twin Cities, and scattered world wide through distance learning, relies on relationships, scholarship, art, expression, and hope. The Crossover In a eulogy penned November 2, 1989, by H.C. Piper, Jr.—chair of Collegeville Institute’s board of directors and a United alum (’74) and supporter—the Institute mourned “the death on the Eve of All Saints of Louis Gunnemann, a charter member of the Institute’s Board of Directors.” Dr. Gunnemann, who served as dean at Mission House and at United, also supported the founding of Collegeville Institute. “Louis understood from the beginning,” Piper wrote, “how the Institute’s special genius depends on its being independent while at the same time drawing sustenance from the work and worship of the Benedictine community.” Rev. Dr. Clyde Steckel, who joined United’s faculty in 1970, knew about Collegeville Institute while in ministry at the University of Minnesota. In 1983, he became a resident scholar at the Institute while on sabbatical from United. In 1993, he joined the Institute’s board. Steckel suggests that it was easy to serve United and the Institute because there was no conflict of interest. “Both organizations,” Steckel explains, “had a similar mission and purpose: nontraditional, theological education.” Besides, he adds, “We all like to get out in the woods and by the lakes.” Dr. Mary Farrell Bednarowski, who covered Steckel’s sabbatical at United, was enticed to attend a luncheon for the Institute by acting United president Rev. Dr. Molly McMillan, one of the Institute’s founding board members. She’s been a supporter ever since. In 1990, Bednarowski was invited to be part of a three-year summer consultation. In 1996, when McMillan asked if she would join the board, Bednarowski remembers, “It took me about 30 seconds to say yes.” She adds, “I think of the Institute itself as a magical place, and that is also how I feel about United. The ‘magic,’ as I have experienced it in both places, is a gift freely offered to all who enter.” McMillan also invited Rev. Dr. Gary Reierson (a 1978 and 1986 United alum and current United trustee), to join the Institute’s board in 2000, when he was president and CEO of the Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches. He says he was inspired to join because the Institute “has an international reputation as a leading ecumenical think tank.” Reierson also notes that there is a similarity of mission between United and the Collegeville Institute, where he now serves—as do Steckel and Bednarowski—as an honorary life member of the board. Rev. Kathi Austin Mahle (also a 1978 alum) has served on United’s board and on the Collegeville Institute board. “United,” she explains, “has this focus on ecumenical education, which then also reflects the ecumenical nature of Collegeville Institute. We’re all working toward a changed world and greater understanding that comes through education and providing scholars with the opportunity to explore their work in an ecumenical environment.” Looking to the Future As President Marshall reflects, “I chose to join the board of Collegeville Institute because of my appreciation for the time I spent there researching and writing. At the midpoint of my academic career, the time as a resident scholar opened new vistas of learning, especially in a community of scholars where we assessed one another's work. It was a transformative sabbatical for me.” While neither United nor Collegeville Institute could have foreseen the seismic changes in the world over the past six decades, both have nonetheless weathered the storms of change. Both have evolved and adapted, and remain true to their founding ideals. Media Contact Nathanial Green, Director of Marketing & Communications ngreen@unitedseminary.edu About United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities Founded as a welcoming, ecumenical school that embraces all denominations and faith traditions, United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities has been on the cutting edge of progressive theological thought leadership since it was established in 1962. Today, United continues to train leaders who dismantle systems of oppression, explore multi-faith spirituality, and push the boundaries of knowledge.