ATLANTA (July 1, 2024) – The Forum for Theological Exploration (FTE) is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Samaria Divine as the new Director of Community Engagement for FTE’s Doctoral programs. Dr. Divine brings experience to this role with a background that blends corporate acumen, theological insight, and a commitment to supporting students of color in academia.
Dr. Divine earned her undergraduate degree in Managerial Sciences from Georgia State University’s J. Mack Robinson College of Business. After graduation, she spent several years in the corporate sector while serving her local church. This experience highlighted the necessity for a deeper biblical understanding within the church, leading her to enroll at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology for a master’s. There, she discovered a deep passion for studying the Hebrew Bible and exploring its connections to African tradition, history, and culture.
Within a few years, Dr. Divine was pursuing a doctorate at the University of Georgia, where she also built a social media platform to assist other students of color aiming to pursue doctoral work. In 2022, Dr. Divine was named one of FTE's 2022-2023 doctoral fellows, an experience that highlighted the organization's significant impact on the lives of doctoral students.
“I am thrilled to welcome Samaria to the FTE staff. As a former FTE doctoral Fellow herself, she brings a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities for BIPOC students in theology and religion programs,” said FTE Vice President of Program Christina Repoley. “Her prior professional experience and academic background align perfectly with the present and future leadership needs of FTE.”
Dr. Divine recently earned her PhD in Religion from the University of Georgia, focusing on the Hebrew Bible. She is now prepared to join FTE’s efforts to provide resources and community to existing and emerging scholars.
About Forum for Theological Exploration
For seventy years, the Forum for Theological Exploration (FTE) has been committed to cultivating tomorrow's leaders to be faithful, wise, and courageous for the church and academy. FTE provides resources, events, networks, grants, and fellowships to empower purposeful students, young adults, and partners to explore their passion, purpose, and call.
For more information, visit fteleaders.org.
PRESS CONTACT
Chrishaun Hoopes
choopes@fteleaders.org