Theological Institutions

The partners below work closely with FTE to implement and oversee programs for doctoral students, serving as selection committee members, scholar-mentors and advisors.

Creating Conditions for Scholars of Color to Thrive

Throughout the history of FTE, and especially in times of changing cultural landscapes, theological scholars have helped to renew the religious and social relevance of the church and academy. FTE collaborates with academic institutions and related organizations to identify and support historically underrepresented graduate students. Together with partner institutions, we nurture and support students of color pursuing advanced degrees in religion, Bible and theology.

While financial support for underrepresented students is essential, graduate programs also must create the necessary conditions for students of color to flourish as they prepare for the vocation of teaching. FTE supports, convenes, and partners with a network of theological schools that express and demonstrate a commitment to diversity in doctoral theological education. Through grant making, consultations and collaborative initiatives, this

learning community of institutions will build capacity for cultivating and supporting students and scholars of color. Annually, partners receive resources such as recruitment grants for the identification and recruitment of future scholars of color, resources on mentoring, and convenings to create conditions for scholars of color to thrive. 

I began to teach in a doctoral degree-granting institution because I wanted to be a part of the formation of scholars as I began to do so, I realized that a key piece of the foundation for this—after developing a rigorous pedagogy, excellent colleagues, intellectual resources that help stretch their talents, and student funding—is that we must do so with an eyes, minds, and hearts finely tuned to building a more inclusive future. Dr. Emilie M. Townes, Dean of Vanderbilt University Divinity School