






The following are the opening remarks of Dr. Angela D. Sims, President of Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School (CRCDS), delivered during the Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2024 on May 18, 2024, at Baber African Methodist Episcopal Church in Rochester, New York.
“Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth Serve the Lord with gladness; come into God’s presence with singing Know that the Lord is God It is God who made us and we are God’s; we are
I most especially welcome today those we celebrate: the graduates – the Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School Class of 2024, and their family and friends It is indeed a glorious day, and I i th k t G d f ! C t ff d t it t fl t h t d
On Saturday, May 18, 2024, over 175 family members, friends, and ommunity supporters gathered at Baber African American Episcopal Church in Rochester, New York, where the Rev James Simmons serves as astor, to celebrate the commencement of the Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School Class of 2024 The ceremony honored 15 graduates who re now ready to embark on their journey of service and leadership.
he event began with a solemn procession, followed by the Call to Worship led by Dr Hilary Jerome Scarsella, Assistant Professor of Ethics & Theological Studies in the Gosnell Chair of Christian Ethics and Director f Gender, Sexual, and Racial Justice (GSRJ) Dr Scarsella set a reverent one for the occasion, inviting all present to reflect on the significance of the moment
The highlight of the ceremony was the commencement address delivered r Robert P Jones, President and Founder of the Public Religion earch Institute in Washington, D C His speech, titled “Ministry Amid Ruins,” offered the graduates profound insights and encouragement ey step into their vocations during these challenging times
ynthia Rasmussen, Assistant Professor of Public Theology & Ecoce in the Martin Luther King, Jr Professorship and Director of the ram for Anglican Studies, took the stage to present the graduate ds In her remarks, she emphasized the honor and responsibility that mpany these recognitions awarded to the following:
he Gene and Jean Bartlett Preaching Prize was awarded to two graduates, Jonathan Staples and Joel Wilbur. This prize honors Dr Gene Bartlett, a 1935 alumnus and past president of CRCDS, and his wife, Jean, for their dedication to justice and mercy
The Theodore Louis Trost Memorial Prize was awarded to Rebeka Ferguson-Lutz This prize recognizes a student with exceptional promise in pastoral ministry and is named after the revered librarian Theodore Louis Trost
The Winthrop Hudson Scholar Award was awarded to Erik Burling This prize honors a student committed to academic excellence, either in doctoral studies or pastoral ministry and is named after distinguished historian Winthrop Hudson
Following the presentation of awards and the commencement address, the degrees were conferred by Board Chair, Rev. Dr. Michael J. Ford; President, Dr Angela D Sims; and faculty member Dr Jin Young Choi Their conferral marked the culmination of years of hard work and dedication by the graduates
For those who could not attend, or who wish to relive the inspiring moments, the full commencement service events and recordings are available on CRCDS ON-DEMAND on our website
Your journey is just beginning, and we look forward to witnessing the positive impact you will make in the world
C L A S S O F 2 0 2 4 C O M M E N C E M E N T
Rev Dr Keith Russell, CRDS ‘67, delivers Baccalaureate Address to the Class of 2024 on May 17, 2024C L A S S O F 2 0 2 4
In 1975, Bishop Joseph D Clemmons, Sr , a member of the inaugural class of MLK Scholars earned the Doctor of Ministry degree from Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School (CRCDS)
Nearly half a century later and, in a remarkable testament to faith, dedication, and legacy, the Clemmons family celebrated a unique milestone during Commencement exercises as Rev. Joseph D. Clemmons, II, received the Doctor of Ministry degree and was hooded by his father.
Both of the Clemmons’ share a strong commitment to church and community Bishop Joseph D Clemmons, Sr., a stalwart in both spiritual and civic arenas, laid a robust foundation with his extensive educational and pastoral journey. He was ordained in 1952 and pursued academic excellence with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from Long Island University and a Master of Arts from Yale Divinity School. His commitment to ministry and community service was further solidified with his Doctor of Ministry degree from CRCDS in 1975. In 1972, Bishop Clemmons’ commitment to ministry and community service was further solidified when he enrolled and selected to be a Martin Luther King, Jr Fellow in Black Religion Studies program at Colgate Rochester Crozer, which was an element of the Program of Black Church Studied. The program was headed by the Rev Dr Henry H Mitchell and coordinated by the Colgate Rochester Divinity School, Bexely Hall, and Crozer Theological Seminary, the project received funding from the Irwin-Sweeney-Miller Foundation In 1975 Bishop Clemmons, along with eighteen other King Fellows, received their Doctor of Ministry degrees
In 1973, Bishop Clemmons founded the Miracle Temple Church of God in Christ in Norwalk, Connecticut, where he served as pastor for 40 years before retiring in 2013 His contributions extended beyond the pulpit; he was a dedicated social and political activist, elected to the Norwalk Common Council and serving three terms in the Connecticut State House of Representatives His tireless work in Norwalk was honored in 2022 when the City of Norwalk named Trinity Place "Bishop Joseph D Clemmons, Sr Drive ”
Rev Dr Joseph D Clemmons, II, following in his father's formidable footsteps, while also forging his own path, was voted in as the Senior Pastor at the Historic First Church of God in Christ in Brooklyn, New York, in 2019 Under his leadership, the church continues to thrive, emphasizing community outreach and the transformative power of Jesus Christ. He too shares a commitment to social justice and community building and is passionate about exploring ways in which the church might engage younger generations
The Clemmons' journey is a powerful narrative of a commitment to faith, education, and community service This father-son duo's achievements, although 49 years apart, highlight a remarkable legacy of service and leadership that spans generations. Their story is a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating the enduring impact of faith-driven education and community dedication.
4 9 Y E A R S A P A R T , U N I T E D I N M I N I S T R Y
A L U M N I / A E & F R I E N D S R E U N I O N H I G H L I G H T S
The 2024 Alumni/ae & Friends Reunion kicked off on Thursday, May 16th, in Rochester, New York, with the annual Alumni/ae Chapel Dr Erika D Gault, CRCDS ‘06, delivered an inspiring sermon titled "Remember the Road," based on Luke 24:28-35 This gathering provided a moment of reflection and reverence, as we remembered and honored members of our community who have passed away over the last year
On Friday, May 17th, we celebrated 205 years of faith, vision, and transformative education at Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School (CRCDS) Our institution's foundation was laid by 13 dedicated individuals with $13 and 13 prayers, shaping generations of leaders We commemorated this legacy with a special prayer breakfast, featuring 13 heartfelt prayers led by esteemed faith and community leaders, including Rev Angela D Sims, Ph D , President of CRCDS, Mayor Malik D Evans of Rochester, and Rabbi Peter W Stein, Senior Rabbi of Temple B’rith Kodesh.
Following the breakfast, attendees participated in three engaging workshops: "Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Theological Education," "Estate Planning 101: Navigating Your Financial Legacy," and "Harvesting Hope: Exploring Food Sovereignty in Local Communities." These sessions sparked thoughtprovoking discussions and provided valuable learning opportunities. Throughout the day, reunion participants enjoyed reconnecting and catching up with friends. The afternoon featured the Stanley I. Stuber Lecture, delivered by Dr. Robert P. Jones, president and founder of Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI), and author of the New York Times bestseller The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy and the Path to a Shared American Future
Friday evening, attendees joined the Baccalaureate Service, and on Saturday, we celebrated the Class of 2024 during the Commencement Ceremony
In May 1817, 13 determined Baptists, led by Reverend Nathaniel Kendrick, gathered in the home of Samuel and Betsey Payne in Hamilton, New York, to establish a "school of prophets" for future ministers. With $13 and 13 prayers, they sought to nurture moral character and deepen spiritual devotion. As Reverend Kendrick led in prayer, invoking divine guidance, the group committed to this ambitious endeavor. Over subsequent meetings, a constitution was formed and presented to the Baptist Education Society of New York in May of the following year, establishing a board of trustees with Peter Philathropos Roots as president, Joel W Clark as secretary, and Jonathan Olmstead as treasurer Each of the original 13 members contributed $1 annually to fund the project, leading to the creation of the Hamilton Literary and Theological Institution (now Colgate University), with the seminary as an integral part, later renamed Colgate Theological Seminary
Jonathan Wade of Hartford, New York, was the first candidate for ministerial studies, walking 141 miles to Hamilton Accepted on February 2, 1819, Wade graduated three years later and pioneered mission work in Burma, establishing a tradition of leadership and social engagement
In 1850, an offshoot of Colgate Theological Seminary was founded in Rochester The merger of Colgate and Rochester seminaries in 1928, followed by the inclusion of the Baptist Missionary Training School in 1961, culminated in 1970 with the formation of Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School Celebrating its 205th anniversary, the school remains dedicated to theological education and social engagement
Learn more at www crcds edu/anniversary
Embracing 205 years of rich history, Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School continues to stand as a beacon of light, committed to fostering peace, service, and justice. On May 16, during the annual Alumni/ae & Friends Awards Dinner, Dr. Angela D. Sims, CRCDS president, presented three awards to alumni/ae This event reminds us of our Christian identity and mission, honoring those who embody these values Each award pays tribute to individuals who inspire us toward a more compassionate and equitable world
The Distinguished Alumni/ae Award acknowledges individuals whose scholarship, teaching, leadership, and vocational contributions reflect CRCDS's commitment to excellence in theological education This year’s recipient, the Rev. Dr. Vincent Howell, ’86, exemplifies these qualities through his distinguished career and community service Dr Howell has significantly contributed as the Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program at Hood Theological Seminary (HTS) in Salisbury, NC. His leadership at the Congregational Faith & Learning Center (TCFLC) at HTS has empowered congregations for thriving community engagement. With a rich background in pastoral ministry and a commitment to racial healing and reconciliation, Dr Howell's legacy embodies the highest ideals of CRCDS
The Peace, Service, and Justice Award recognizes individuals whose commitment to their community embodies the core values of peace, service, and justice This year, we honor Rev. Julius “JD” Jackson, Jr., ’13, who has dedicated his ministry to serving and uplifting others. He currently serves as Pastor at United Church of Pittsford in Pittsford, NY, and his extensive career has touched many lives. Beyond his pastoral duties, Rev. Jackson has volunteered for organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters and Alpha Phi Alpha. His recent efforts, such as organizing celebrations at Frederick Douglass' gravesite and helping rename the local airport to Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport, highlight his commitment to preserving history and promoting equality
2 0 2 4 A L U M N I / A E A W A R D S
The Emerging Leader Award celebrates alumni/ae who have shown exceptional dedication to ministry in Church and Society within the past decade This year, we honor the Rev. Dr. Jamie Eaddy Chism, ‘20, for her impactful contributions to the field Since graduating, Dr Eaddy Chism has become prominent in the realms of death, dying, grief, and bereavement. As the founder of Thoughtful Transitions LLC and an adjunct professor at several esteemed seminaries, she shapes the next generation of spiritual care practitioners. Her innovative approach extends beyond the classroom, demonstrated by her work as the Grief Doula at the Anti-Violence Partnership of Philadelphia and her involvement in the documentary ‘A Hope That Lights the Way ’
From left to right: Rev Dr Michael J Ford, CRCDS ‘12, President Dr Angela D Sims, Rev Dr Vincent Howell, ’86 From left to right: Rev Julius “JD” Jackson, Jr , ’13, Rev Dr Jamie Eaddy Chism, ‘20, Rev. Dr. Vincent Howell, ’86 From left to right: Rev Dr Michael J Ford, CRCDS ‘12, President Dr Angela D Sims, Rev Julius “JD” Jackson, Jr , ’13 From left to right: Rev Dr Michael J Ford, CRCDS ‘12, President Dr Angela D Sims, Rev Dr Jamie Eaddy Chism, ‘20BecauseIdon'thaveto beconcernedorworried abouttuitionand finances,Iambetter abletoconcentrateon mycoursework.This program(Tuition SubscriptionPlan) enablesstudentstosee thefinishline.
Looking for ways to engage with the CRCDS community? Email Dr. Courtney Wiley-Harris, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Advancement@crcds.edu or call 585-340-9669. T U I T I O N S U B S C R I P T I O N P L A N ( T S P
Beginning in Fall 2021, Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School (CRCDS) introduced the innovative Tuition Subscription Program (TSP). As one of the few seminaries accredited by the Association of Theological Schools to offer this kind of tuition payment plan, CRCDS provides a unique financial solution for its students. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, students enrolled in graduate certificate or degree programs can participate in the $300 monthly tuition plan.
The TSP offsets tuition costs through the generosity of CRCDS donors and the scholarship funds they provide Institutional aid is applied universally, making the $300/month payment possible for all students
Benefits of the TSP Program:
Allows for monthly budgeting
Potentially decreases overall student debt
Enables focus on studies rather than finances
CRCDS understands that many of its students are bi-vocational, pursuing second careers, and actively engaged in ministry while managing mortgages, childcare, and other responsibilities Some may already be at their federal aid loan limits The TSP allows students to incorporate their tuition payments into their monthly budgets, reducing the financial burden that often contributes to student debt By minimizing financial stress, this program enables students to concentrate on their theological education and spiritual growth When donors give to the CRCDS Annual Fund, they are helping to support the Tutions Subscription Plan (TSP)
For additional information about the Tuition Subscription Program and how it can support your educational journey, visit www crcds edu/TSP
To make a contribution to the annual fund which directly supports the TSP, visit www.crcds.edu.
Passionately committed to the dignity of all persons, the ministry and mission of the church, the care of the earth and all its creatures, and the formation of individuals for service to church and world, the Rev. Dr. Melanie Duguid-May will retire on June 30, 2025, after 32 remarkable years with Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School.
Throughout her tenure, Dr Duguid-May has served our community with unwavering dedication, holding dual appointments and multiple administrative roles Her contributions have deeply enriched our academic and spiritual environment, leaving an indelible mark on both the institution and the many students she has mentored.
As we approach her retirement, there will be opportunities during the upcoming academic year to celebrate and acknowledge Dr Duguid-May's invaluable contributions These events will be a chance for us to come together and express our gratitude for her service and dedication to our community
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Duguid-May for her outstanding service and commitment Further information about the upcoming celebrations will be sent out and posted on our website in due course
Starting July 1, the Rev Jacqueline J Nelson will take on the responsibilities of Director of the BRTL Program Rev Nelson has been a valued member of the Colgate Rochester Crozer community, serving as the Director for Student Support Services and Coordinator for Spiritual Care. In these roles, she has excelled in shepherding the supervised ministry program, among many other responsibilities.
Rev Nelson is currently pursuing a Ph D in Human Development at the University of Rochester’s Warner School of Education Her research focuses on the intersections of race, gender, sexual orientation, faith, and mental health outcomes for Black LGBTQ+ adolescents. An ordained Baptist minister, Rev. Nelson holds a B.A. in Africana Studies from Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, and both an M.Div. and Th M from Princeton Theological Seminary She also received a Certificate in Black Church Studies, a Certificate in Women, Theology & Gender, and the 2016 Bryant M Kirkland Award for Excellence in Practical Theology upon graduation
We are excited to welcome Rev. Nelson into her new role and look forward to the continued growth and development of the BRTL Program under her leadership.
SIMS RECEIVES WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE AWARD
We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Angela D. Sims, President of CRCDS, has been selected as a Women of Excellence honoree for 2024! The Women of Excellence awards recognize high-achieving women for their remarkable career accomplishments, community involvement, leadership, and sustained commitment to mentoring Dr Sims' selection is a testament to her outstanding professional experience, dedication to our community, and exemplary leadership at CRCDS. Her contributions have greatly enriched both our institution and the wider community.
The Women of Excellence honorees are chosen by a panel of judges comprising prior year Circle of Excellence honorees and the Rochester Business Journal's editorial team We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr Sims for this welldeserved recognition. We are privileged to have Dr. Sims leading our institution, and we give thanks to God for her visionary leadership as we move peace, service, and justice forward. Please join us in celebrating Dr. Sims' achievement!
C O L G A T E R O C H E S T E R C R O Z E R N E W S
C O L G A T E R O C H E S T E R C R O Z E R N E
In March, Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School (CRCDS) visited Lane College in Jackson, Tennessee The visit, spearheaded by the Rev Dr Shazetta Thompson-Hill, Director for Strategic Initiatives and Faculty Affiliate, and Ms Qhamora Kimbrough, Registrar, and Senior Recruitment Officer, served as an opportunity to engage with current students and discuss ministry plans and their theological education journey Dr Thompson-Hill and Ms Kimbrough share a special connection with Lane College as alums of the institution
This visit held particular significance as CRCDS endeavors to forge connections with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), a pivotal component of the institution's strategic recruitment plan CRCDS staff engaged with students during their visit, laying the groundwork for future relationships and connections Dr Thompson-Hill had the honor of preaching during the student-led service, marking a rare occasion to preach at her alma mater since her graduation in 2006 Ms Kimbrough, a 2019 graduate of Lane College, seized the opportunity to connect with multiple classes of students, offering insights into the opportunities available at CRCDS, including online courses and the $300 a month Tuition Subscription Program (TSP)
The visit to Lane College emphasizes CRCDS's commitment to fostering inclusivity, diversity, and meaningful partnerships within the broader theological education community. As CRCDS continues to bridge paths and build bridges, these interactions testify to the power of collaboration and shared journeys in theological education.
DR. HILARY JEROME SCARSELLA
Dr. Scarsella recently published a journal article in Political Theology titled, “The Could-Have-Been Lives of Political Theology: An Ode to Miscarried Knowings.” This compelling piece delves into the intersections of gender, ethics, and theology, exploring the ramifications of the discipline's cis-male ethos.
The abstract offers insight into Dr. Scarsella's exploration of lost trajectories within political theology and the systemic impact of epistemological miscarriage. Through feminist and autoethnographic lenses, the essay sheds light on the environmental stressors that hinder the development of alternative perspectives within the field.
Dr Scarsella holds the position of Assistant Professor of Ethics & Theological Studies in the Gosnell Chair of Christian Ethics AND Director of Gender, Sexual, and Racial Justice (GSRJ) studies
Dr Choi recently published a new essay, "Intimate Encounters at the Unhomely Home," which is featured in the book "Embodying Antiracist Christianity," and delves into the powerful intersection of African American history and Asian American subjectivity, fostering solidarity and understanding
Dr. Choi's compelling analysis, drawing parallels between Toni Morrison's "Home" and the Gospel of John, sheds light on healing and haunting experiences within marginalized communities. Her work arrives at a crucial juncture amidst rising antiAsian sentiments, offering vital antiracist resources rooted in Asian/North American feminist theology and biblical scholarship.
Dr. Choi is the Professor of New Testament and Christian Origins and the Baptist Missionary Training School Professorial Chair in Biblical Studies.
Since July 1, 2023
Ms. Minnie Rebecca Romerill Béguin, BMTS '52
July8,2023
Mrs. Carol McMillen July22,2023
Rev. Joseph P. Clay, CTS '60 July27,2023
Rev. Dr. Stephen L. York, CRCDS '20 August13,2023
Ms. Dorothy Klyn, BMTS '53 August14,2023
Rev. Eleanor Lu Johnson, CRCDS '06 August26,2023
Ms. Marilyn Lynne Wallace, BMTS ‘52 September13,2023
Rev. Marvin Chandler, CRDS ‘63 September23,2023
Ms. Carol Anne H. Cowan, CRCDS '99 September24,2023
Ms. Nancy Otey Travers, CRDS ‘74 October10,2023
Rev. Dr. G. Kenneth Gates, CRDS ‘56 October16,2023
Dr. William C. Larkin, CRDS ‘69 October22,2023
Rev Lewis Walter Stewart, CRDS ‘85 October27,2023
Rev. Clifford Sutherland, CRDS ‘69 November8,2023
Dr Gay L Byron December6,2023
Ms. Virginia Strasenburgh Pacala December6,2023
Dr Elmer S West, Jr, CRDS ‘46 November18,2023
Dr. John Afman, CRDS ‘80 December31,2023
Rev. Wilfred E. Moss, CRDS ‘82 January2,2024
Mrs. Carolyn Osborne Hood January10,2024
Rev.NormanJ.Kansfield January27,2024
Rev.PierOkkePostma,CRDS‘79 January30,2024
Mrs. Sheila M. Saxby, CRDS '61 is retired, and enjoys serving her community in Walnut Creek, CA as an elections offer, driver safety instructor, and emergency planning coordinator
Rev. Paul Hardwick, CRDS '63 celebrated 61 years of marriage on May 20, 2024, with his wife, Linda Rae Hardwick
Rev. Richard Hood, CRDS '71 is enjoying retirement and serving local churches part-time as a pulpit supply pastor
Rev. Dr. Stephen D. Jones, CRDS ‘72 published an opinion piece titled "Jesus Would Have Opposed White Christian Nationalism" in the Las Vegas Sun
Rev. Roger G. Talbott, CRDS ‘74 recently published an article in the Christian Century for their Buechner contest on "Sleep" in the January 2024 issue
Rev. Dr. Bradley Donahue, CRDS '80 retired in 2019 after serving as a parish pastor for 235 years He also was a USAR chaplain, retiring with the rank of Major, and continues to serve as an oncall hospital chaplain
Mr. James R. White, CRDS ‘85 was featured in the April 7, 2024 edition of the Altoona Mirror in an article titled "Concert offers ‘Favorite Things"
Rev. Dr. Alex A. Gondola, Jr., CRDS '85 published a book titled "Saints Alive: Claiming the Saints for Protestant Preaching" by CSS Publishing, Lima, Ohio
Rev. Constance L. Seifert, CRDS '86 serves as part-time pastor at Corning First UMC and is enrolled in the Doctor of Ministry program at CRCDS
Dr. James E. Spicer, CRDS ‘56 February9,2024
Rev Shirley J Moore-Krackhardt, CRDS ‘99 March2,2024
Rev. Dr. Donald R. Holt, CRDS ‘79 March9,2024
Dr Theodore L Bleck-Doran, CRDS ‘82 March13,2024
Ms. Betty June Murray, BMTS ‘53 March25,2024
Ms Anne S Fett, CRDS ‘58 March29,2024
Rev. William A. Ellsworth CTS ‘64 April2,2024
Rev. Calvin C. Wilson, CRDS ‘63 May9,2024
Rev. Pamela D. Anderegg, CRDS ‘89 May10,2024
Dr. Beverly C. Davison May23,2024
IF YOU KNOW OF AN ALUMNI/AE OR FRIEND OF CRCDS WHO IS DECEASED, PLEASE EMAIL US AT ADVANCEMENT@CRCDSEDU WITH A COPY OF THE OBITUARY SO THAT WE CAN UPDATE OUR RECORDS
Dr. J. Richard Middleton, CRDS ‘88 is retiring at the end of the academic year from Roberts Wesleyan University and Northeastern Seminary after 22 years of teaching Additionally, he taught for 6 years at CRDS
Rev. Matthew H. Stengel, CRDS ‘88 will retire from the Upper New York Conference of the UMC on July 1, 2024
Rev. Sarah Greenfield Culp, CRDS '91 serves as the Director of Spiritual Life at St John's Home in Rochester, NY
Rev Dr. Durant K. Harvin, III, CRDS '91 serves as Senior Pastor at The Greater Immanuel Faith Temple in Pikesville, MD, and as Adjunct Professor at Morgan State University
Rev.Janna J. Roche, CRDS '91 published "Visiting Hours are Over," a behind-the-scenes description of seven daughters caring for their dying parents and a chaplain discovering what truly matters
Rev. Robin Lostetter, CRDS '95 is enjoying retirement
Rev. Alberto Lanzot, CRDS ‘95 will retire from the Upper New York Conference of the UMC on July 1, 2024
Rev. Jeffrey Aiosa, CRDS ‘96 has been appointed to St Matthew United Methodist Church in the Little Kanawha District of the West Virginia Conference, effective July 1, 2024
Rev. Andre Spivey, CRCDS '00 serves as Executive Minister of the Oak Grove AME Church in Detroit, Michigan He is currently enrolled at Wayne State University in the Juris Doctorate program Rev Spivey served on the Detroit City Council from 2010 - 2021
Rev. George F. Nicholas, CRCDS ‘01 will retire from the Upper New York Conference of the UMC on July 1, 2024
Rev.Dr. Leonard Griffin, CRCDS '02 completed his Doctorial studies in May 2022, having matriculated at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Wake Forest, NC The title of his dissertation is: An Academic-Styled Seminar: An Intrinsic Case Study of the South Carolina Baptist Congress of Christian Education
Rev Thomas LeBeau, CRCDS ‘02 will retire from the Upper New York Conference of the UMC on July 1, 2024
Rev. Dr. Deborah E. Roof, CRCDS '03 recently published her book, Words, Wonder, and the Divine in You
Rev. Dr. John Colatch, CRDS ‘03 serves as Pastor at First Baptist Church, in Lewisburg, PA
Rev. Angel Sullivan, CRCDS '04 serves as a Mental Health Chaplain at BayCare Health Systems in Land O Lakes, FL
Rev. Patricia Wayne, CRCDS '04 is now retired. Before retirement, she served for 10 years as the Director and Chaplain at a Children’s Orphanage in Jalisco, Mexico.
Rev. Dr. Melany Silas, CRCDS ‘06 assumed the role of Pastor at Trinity Emmanual Presbyterian Church on April 28, 2024 in Rochester, NY
Rev. Dr. Starlette Thomas, CRCDS '06 recently published her book, Take Me to the Water: The Raceless Gospel as Baptismal Pedagogy for a Desegregated Church
Rev. James Morasco, CRCDS '07 published a book Dreaming: A Spiritual Journey, which includes 40 poems addressing topics such as: addiction, spirituality, work, nature, people, social justice, and dreaming
Rev. Laura O'Shaughnessy, Ph.D., CRCDS '07 was the author of a review essay, for the Latin American Research Review, Vol 51, Number 3 titled, God Speaks from within History: The Challenging Witness of Liberation Theology
Rev. Daniel J. Bradley, CRCDS ’09 and current DMIN student published an article, "The Ugly Truth" a call for speaking truth to power, finding resilience, and combating injustice through faith and life
Rev. Tom E. Gardner, CRCDS '08 retired from the First Presbyterian Church of Holley, in Holley, NY
Rev Dr Timothy W Sloan, CRCDS '09 published a devotional book with his teenage daughter, Sarah J Sloan, titled, Closer to You: A Devotional for Dads and Daughters
Rev Natalie Bowerman, CRCDS ‘12 was appointed to service Honeoye Falls UMC, effective July 1, 2024
Rev. Mary Korte, CRCDS '13 serves as the Interim Pastor at Trinity Episcopal Church, Central West End in StLouis, MO
Rev Dr Robin Blair, CRCDS ’14 recently published a children's book, "Sad Pie" This beautifully crafted story delves into life's tender moments and navigating the journey through
Rev. Dr. Charles E. Turner, CRCDS '14 serves as Pastor of New Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Houston, TX He also serves as the Chairperson of the Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation
The Very Rev. Troy Preston, CRCDS '16 serves as Rector at Christ Episcopal Church in Corning, NY, and also serves as the Dean of the Southeast District of the Episcopal Diocese of Rochester loss.
Mr. John Hogan-Trinh, CRCDS '16 serves as the Economic Empowerment Manager at Inspiritus, in Rincon, GA (formerly Luthern Services of Georgia)
Rev Dr Joellyn Tuttle, CRCDS '91 and CRCDS '16 is retired and writing a children's ministry curriculum for a local church titled "Curious with Christ" The curriclum includes a gardening component as a parallel to the children growing in their knowledge and love of the Triune God
Rev Dr J Esther Rowe, CRCDS '16 was a contributing author in the newly published book, "Women in the Bible: A Contemporary Perspective"
Rev. Dr. Stefan Weathers, CRCDS ‘17 received his Doctor of Ministry from Duke University Divinity School
Rev Winston H Lewis, CRCDS '18 serves as a Counselor at Helio Health in Rochester, NY, and is a candidate in the Master Of Social Work Program at Syracuse University
Rev Dr Jason L Turner, CRCDS ’18 was featuered this winter on the local Memphi, TN news for his outstanding leadership during the recent winter weather challenges
Rev Dr Kevin A Slayton, Sr, CRCDS ‘18 was featured in the Baltimore Fishbowl regarding his new book "Politically Preaching”
Rev. Dr. Jay S. Gardner, CRCDS ‘20 accepted a call to serve as Pastor at Mount Zion Baptist Church of Germantown, PA
Rev. Patricia Blaine, CRCDS '22 earned her chaplaincy certification from the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC)
June 2 - 5, 2024
Hampton,Virginia
E.K. Bailey Preaching Conference
July, 8 - 10 2024
Dallas,Texas Hampton Ministers’ Conference
The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries (TFAM)
August 5 - 9, 2024
LasVegas,Nevada
August 9 - 1 1, 2024
BatonRouge,Louisiana
Covenant Keepers International Alliance
Holy Convocation
August 14 - 17, 2024
Charlotte,NorthCarolina
DISCUSS SMART WAYS TO ENGAGE OR TO SHARE YOUR VALUES BY LIFTING UP A STUDENT IN NEED.
DR. COURTNEY WILEY-HARRIS AT 585-340-9669 OR E-MAIL: ADVANCEMENT@CRCDS.EDU.
THANK YOU FOR BELIEVING IN THE TRANSFORMATIONAL POWER OF EDUCATION!
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o you have a passion for theological education and an ppreciation for the value it can bring to one’s life?
ou can help Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School students pursue their eams by breaking down barriers to theological education with a scholarship.
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