Master of Arts in Christian Education
At the time of my enrollment at Garrett- Evangelical, it was quite intimidating to think of myself as “called to ministry.” Although I could not articulate my goals, I knew, based upon my testimony, that God would use me! Initially, I thought I came to seminary to gain a better understanding of how to read, study, and teach the Bible. However, Garrett-Evangelical far exceeded my expectations by cultivating and nurturing my call to ministry, as well as illuminating and strengthening gifts and passions I did not realize I had. My time at Garrett- Evangelical has compelled me to challenge myself in ministry and be willing to try new experiences. One of these challenging new experiences, studying early Christianity in Rome for three weeks, became my most memorable experience at Garrett-Evangelical.
Recently, God has blessed me with opportunities to serve in ministry through preaching, speaking, and teaching. My hope is to continue to surrender to God’s call, allowing my testimony and resources in Christian education to be used for God’s glory. I believe that I am part of an assembly of young women whom God is using to redefine and dispel traditional depictions of ministry, all while inspiring others! I am proud to be a graduate of this seminary and extremely grateful to the entire community of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary for the continued support of my call and development along this journey!
Doctor of Philosophy
When I decided to earn a Ph.D. from a seminary, I thought I was preparing to teach in seminary or one of the Bible colleges of Assemblies of God. But a Ph.D. from a seminary turned out to be the perfect training for the ministry of university chaplaincy where I find myself today. Rigorous and faithful theology is central to helping university students find their way into adulthood and independence, and I have been trained to do that well at Garrett-Evangelical. In addition, I am most grateful to have met my wife at Garrett-Evangelical and to have shared in many good-spirited, theological “arguments” with seminary colleagues around the lunch table in Loder Hall. When my students are preparing for seminary now, I usually suggest that these conversations are some of the most critical for theological formation.
I currently serve as university chaplain and director of the Lantz Center for Christian Vocation at the United Methodist-related University of Indianapolis. This dual role means that I teach about 50% of my time and lead campus ministry programming for the rest. I sense a very close alignment with my calling here and hope to stay in this role for a long time. I also have plans to impact the Church more broadly through writing. Currently I am working on a book about women in ministry that will be followed by another on vocational discernment. I believe the Church is at a critical time of reshaping ministry for the future, and I plan to be part of that ongoing conversation.
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