By Rev. Dorothy S. Boulware
One of the most exciting pieces of news from the 2024 Hampton Ministers Conference is the launch of Hampton University’s School of Religion, which offers the usual degrees in religion and theology, and is now the first HBCU to offer a doctorate.
“It’s more than a dream come true. It’s much needed at this time in the life of the Black church and the Black community. Churches need as much support and assistance as we can give them,” says Rev. Dr. Debra L. Haggins, founding dean of the School of Religion, executive director and treasurer of the Hampton University Ministers’ Conference, and Hampton’s first woman chaplain.
“Theological education is changing. It’s a post-COVID education. People are going to church differently with different expectations,” Haggins says.
She says COVID brought to the forefront a culture of consumerism in the church, and people are making choices unlike those previously made.
“Not only have we survived COVID, but the paradigm has literally shifted. We now rely on the creative side of worship; technology to broadcast, social media platforms like Meta live. Technology came together to keep the church alive, and we rely heavily on it now,” Haggins says.
Not only is the school already in full operation, but its first partnership has been formed with the Church of God in Christ Second Jurisdiction of Virginia.
“We are thrilled to announce that the Church of God in Christ is our very first partner with the School of Religion,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams in a statement. “Together, we are shaping the future of religious education and leadership, stepping forward to support our mission of preparing inspired and effective leaders for the 21st century.”
The Church of God in Christ (C.O.G.I.C.) is one of the largest Pentecostal denominations in the world. Founded in 1907, C.O.G.I.C. is known for its commitment to spiritual growth, community service, and social justice.
“The collaboration between C.O.G.I.C. and Hampton University’s School of Religion is a remarkable opportunity to enhance spiritual education and leadership,” said Bishop Michael B. Golden Jr., one of the youngest bishops of C.O.G.I.C. “We are honored to be the inaugural partner in this endeavor, and we look forward to the positive impact this will have on our communities and beyond.”
“This institution will provide a comprehensive and inclusive platform for theological education, research, and spiritual development. We are excited about our partnership with C.O.G.I.C., and we’re committed to fostering a new generation of leaders who are well-equipped to address the challenges of our time.”
The School of Religion offers a diverse range of programs and initiatives, including:
• Degree Programs: Undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in theology, religious studies, and ministry.
• Continuing Education: Workshops, seminars, and certificate programs for clergy and lay leaders.
• Research and Publications: A robust agenda of research projects and publications aimed at advancing religious scholarship and practice.
“Our online classes are cutting edge technology, custom built and contextually appropriate,” Haggins says, adding that applications are being accepted for the doctoral level through July 15 and all other levels through July 30.
The new school is also bringing 32 new professors to Hampton, and they’ve already experienced extensive training and two faculty retreats.
One of those new professors is Rev. Drew Kyndall Ross, senior pastor of New Hope Baptist Church in Hackensack, New Jersey, who says his passion for teaching at a seminary level started while studying for his master of divinity in 2011.
“It was then that I began having a desire to teach preaching,” Ross says. “Last year, I started a Ph.D. program to eventually teach preaching. When I saw that Hampton University’s new School of Religion was accepting new professors, I quickly applied.”
“The opportunity at Hampton has been a dream come true. It gives me a chance to teach in a field of study that I love. It also allows me to make an impact on preachers who are seeking to sharpen their skills. I am looking forward to this new journey as an extension of my preaching and pastoral ministry.”
