I attended Florida Memorial University for my bachelor’s degree in religious education. I wanted to continue on the theological track and knew the importance of being well trained for ministry. Unfortunately, right as I graduated in July 2013, I faced the hard reality that I like so many pastors would not have an opportunity for formal training. I am hoping to have this opportunity to continue my education at Florida Memorial University through Palm Beach Atlantic University. I anticipate this for me personally and also my colleagues are ready and waiting for an opportunity like this. I think it will make a big difference in South Florida ministries.

Now, as I am older, I look back and my reading had anything to do with black theologians. Everything was from the European perspective. My ultimate goal is to be able to provide training for pastors all over the world, especially Africa. I would like to be credentialed to set up outposts in Africa where there can be theological training. Because I went through these different experiences, I find it necessary to help pastors look at the Gospel through their lenses.

I was accepted into another seminary. I honestly felt out of place as I continued my journey. I wasn’t connecting to the professors or my classmates. Not too long after I completed my first two classes, I learned about the possible partnership of Palm Beach Atlantic University and Florida Memorial University. When I heard about the vision of the schools coming together to create an M.Div. experience that was contextualized to the black church experience, my heart leaped! Without even applying to that program, I already began to feel like I found the place for me. I found a home! I am eager to join the school, and I have already inquired about how soon I would be able to get plugged in.