Hampton Alumna Rev. Dre. Debra L. Haggins '17 Pioneers the Evolutionary School of Religion

Rev. Dr. Debra Haggins, the University Chaplain at Hampton University for the past 15-16 years, has been appointed as the founding dean for the School of Religion. The new school will offer a PhD in religion and theology, making Hampton the first HBCU to do so.

Hampton University has had a significant impact on religion for years by hosting the Annual Minister’s Conference since 1914. This history has perpetuated a lineage of developed and trained clergy for the African-American church. Hampton Alumna, c/o ’17, and University Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Debra Haggins, pioneers a new path for Hampton University with the announcement as the founding Dean of the School of Religion, an evolutionary feat in Hampton’s history that will continue to resound bells of victory for centuries ringing. Dr. Haggins began her chaplaincy at Hampton University in August 2008. Within her role, she has been able to touch the ministerial academic aspect and administrative responsibilities, all woven into the very fabric of Hampton’s culture and ethos. She has served as campus pastor of the Historic Memorial Chapel, Executive Director, Treasurer of the Hampton University Ministers’ Conference-Choir Directors’ & Organists’ Guild, and Director of the former Religious Studies program.

In 2017, Dr. Haggins graduated from Hampton, earning her Doctor of Philosophy degree in Higher Education Management. In her studies, she focused on navigating the call and exploring the ecclesial leadership praxis of the African-American Clergy. “The great privilege of the appointment is that I am able to serve our beloved Hampton with my whole heart. I have dedicated the last 15 years of my life to being available for the administration, faculty, staff, alumni, students, and parents. It is a privilege to bring my life for the church and the academy together. I am so very grateful to President Darrell K. Williams for this opportunity to bring together my love for the church, my research interests, and Hampton University for such a groundbreaking appointment. To God be the glory! Great things he has done.” Said Haggins.

In her new role, Dr. Haggins looks forward to entering or delving more deeply into what theological and religious education look like in Black spaces by recruiting stellar faculty to carry torches of academic rigor, subject matter expertise, and a solid commitment to student success.

“This historically significant moment, in my mind, springboards from the year of the university’s founding in 1868, upon strong Christian principles and values. Hampton’s endearing mission of educating the head, heart, and hand continues to resonate with alumni and our current students more than a century and a half later. This moment means that Hampton University, with the strong and unwavering support of alumni, is boldly entering this brave new world of university-based theological education where we will wrestle with issues of religion, politics, education, society, and, yes, the landscape of Christianity in America which continues to evolve.” Said Haggins. This is exciting for Hampton, for we are excited that this is another milestone, another benchmark of innovation and imagination. Establishing the School of Religion is a natural progression toward greater community engagement and congregational development. It is another milestone and benchmark of innovation and imagination emanating from the Standard of Excellence.

“Hampton University School of Religion will stand as a beacon of light and hope to all who enter the doors of our classrooms, whether they be virtual or traditional. I would like to extend an open invitation to alumni, parents, and friends of Hampton and the greater Hampton Roads Community to celebrate and support our programs in religion and theology. Bring your ideas, well wishes, and yes, your prayers.” Said Haggins.