HHOOOODD ’S’S HHEERRAALLDD

A P UBLICATION OF HOOD THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Vol. XIV, No. 1 Winter 2015-16 TRULY THANKFUL A Message from the President Greetings, faith partners and friends, As I approach the second year of my tenure as the chief servant of this historic institution, I am humbled by the hundreds of persons that I greet in a variety of churches, agencies, and organizations. Our Seminary has been blessed by your many prayers and tangible expressions of support and for this we are TRULY THANKFUL. As a new president serving an institution with a rich tradition of service to the church and society, I am challenged to embrace the meaning of the gospel in Matthew 9:17. It is a message addressing elements that we value and changes that we encounter. “And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. For the old skins would burst from the pressure, spilling the wine and ruining the skins. New wine is stored in new wineskins so that both are preserved.” (New Living Translation). In a faith-filled quest of mutuality, we greet you with a simple request – to continue to Invest in a Firm Foundation.

Why support Hood Theological Seminary? • Hood equips leaders for fostering critical conversations and actions addressing racial reconciliation, social justice, and spiritual formation and renewal. • Hood is a center for theological reflection and healing actions which engages persons from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. I have invited our world-class faculty, our exceptionally competent and dedicated staff, our loyal alumni, our faith friends, and our exceptionally committed Board of Trustees to embrace a new aspiration—Strive to be the Seminary of Choice in the southeast region of North America! These are not the ideas of a leader intoxicated by cheap wine, but the vision of a learning community that is making a difference, locally and nationally. Your annual financial donations facilitate our drive for excellence as evidenced throughout this publication: • Supporting students through need-based financial aid • Affirming outstanding teaching and faculty scholarship • Hosting major seminars, workshops, and discussions • Funding to support the exploration and delivery of Continuing and Distance Education It is our desire that this issue of Hood’s Herald affirms your confidence in the spirit of the words in Jeremiah 33:14—”Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will perform that good thing which I have promised to the house of Israel and the house of Judah.” As you give thanks and share Christmas, Hanukah, or Kwanza with loving family and friends, please remember the Seminary’s Firm Foundation Annual Fund. Your gifts continue to impact the lives of our students and enable this vibrant learning community to flourish in ways that challenge and inspire.

With blessing for joyful living and service in 2016, I remain,

In sincere appreciation,

President

2 Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 BOARD OF TRUSTEES CONTENTS 2015 - 2016

Bishop Richard K. Thompson, Chairman A Message from the President ...... 2 Bishop Louis Hunter, Sr., Vice Chairman Rev. Dr. Sheldon R. Shipman, Secretary New Faculty ...... 4 Rev. Dr. Douglas L. Maven, Assistant Secretary Bishop George E. Battle, Jr. Rev. Randell A. Cain, Jr. New Staff ...... 5 Mrs. Sara Cook Mr. Charles Davidson Faculty Notes ...... 5 Bishop Michael A. Frencher Dr. Sandra L. Gadson New Trustee Appointed ...... 6 Rev. Terry L. Jones, Sr. Mr. Dwight Messinger Bishop Kenneth Monroe Campus News - Thankful and Blessed ...... 7 Bishop W. Darin Moore The Hon. Adele M. Riley Commencement 2015 ...... 8 Dr. Brenda L. G. Smith Endowed Scholarship Recipients ...... 10 Members Emeriti Dr. Janet Ward Black Honor Roll of Donors ...... 12 Dr. Beatrice Asbury Houston Bishop Joseph Johnson Dr. Richard Martin Bishop James Walker Hood Awards ...... 14 Dr. Ned Storey Rev. Dr. Curtis T. Walker Campus Events ...... 16 Bishop George W. C. Walker, Sr. Student Focus ...... 19 Members Ex-Officio Dr. Vergel L. Lattimore, President Alumni News ...... 20 R. Darrell Hancock, Esq., Legal Counsel Rev. Tony Henderson, President, Alumni Assoc. In Memoriam ...... 23

ADMINISTRATION Upcoming Events ...... Back Cover

President Dr. Vergel L. Lattimore On the cover: Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is Academic Dean God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Dr. Trevor Eppehimer Hood Theological Seminary is Truly Thankful for our many supporters Dean of Students whose monetary and in-kind gifts and support help us to carry out the Dr. Dora R. Mbuwayesango mission of the Seminary and to impact the lives of our students and the communities of faith where they serve. This past year we have been blessed Chief Financial Officer over and over again by thoughtful and generous contributions from friends, Dr. Regina Dancy alumni, foundations and corporations. Within these pages our readers will Director of Admissions and Recruitment discover the many diverse elements that make up this faithful support for Ms. Angela Davis-Baxter which we are forever grateful.

Director of Alumni Engagement Hood Theological Seminary, sponsored by the African Methodist and Annual Giving Ms. Carmen Wilder Episcopal Zion Church, is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada (ATS) and is Director of Communication, Information approved for the preparation of United Methodist clergy by the & Publicity Mrs. Carol D. Palmer United Methodist Church. Director of Financial Aid Hood’s Herald is a publication of the Office of Institutional Advancement of Rev. J. Frances King Hood Theological Seminary; Carol Palmer, editor. Diversified Graphics, Inc, design. Communications regarding Hood’s Herald, including address Director of the Library Mrs. Jess Bellemer changes and alumni news and updates, may be sent to the editor at Hood Theological Seminary, 1810 Lutheran Synod Drive, Salisbury, NC 28144 or Registrar by email to cpalmer @hoodseminary.edu. Photography: Gordon Photography; Mrs. Nancy Baker Steve Norman Photography; Reginald W. Brown; Carol Palmer; et al. President Emeritus Phone 704-636-7611 Fax 704-636-7685 www.hoodseminary.edu Dr. Albert J. D. Aymer

Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 3 New Faculty

Otto D. Harris, III joined the adjunct and Chair of the Simon Temple A.M.E. Zion Church faculty in the fall 2015 term. He holds Mentoring Program. a Ph.D. in Educational Studies with a Concentration in Cultural Studies Herbert Rhedrick, Jr . joined the from the University of North Carolina faculty in the fall term as Adjunct at Greensboro and a Master of Professor in Pastoral Theology. He Divinity degree from Hood Theological holds Doctor of Ministry and Master Seminary. He has a B.S. from North of Divinity degrees from Gordon- Carolina A&T University. Dr. Harris is an ordained elder in Conwell Seminary. Dr. Rhedrick is the Western North Carolina Conference of The United the senior pastor of First Missionary Methodist Church and is pastor of Saint Mark’s United Baptist Church. His mentoring Methodist Church in Charlotte, NC. He also serves as a extends to Toekomsrus Baptist Church in South Africa. His facilitator of a cohort of provisional elders participating in the focuses are pastoral guidance, church stabilization and WNC’s Residency in Ordained Ministry (RIOM) program and ministry development. He is the founder and chairman of as a member of the Board of Managers for the Duke Divinity Walking in the Harvest, a 501c3, which offers free food and School Convocation and Pastors’ School. Dr. Harris published clothing, nursing and youth summer programs. He also a peer-reviewed article and presented papers about village serves on the Cabarrus Hunger Task Force, the United pedagogy and the perversion of hope in politics. His Missionary Baptist Association, Logan Ministers’ dissertation analyzes the historic and present social conditions Association (former President) and the Cabarrus Baptist of The United Methodist Church within the context of Association. He has served on the Board of Directors for American culture using the theoretical lens of Black church Prosperity Unlimited, Inc., and MedAssist. Before coming to interpretive traditions intersecting with Wesleyan theology. Hood, Dr. Rhedrick served, as a teacher assistant to Dr. Tim Laniak, Dean of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Dr. Tom Mabry will join the adjunct faculty during January Rhedrick is a veteran. Intensives. He is Senior Pastor at Mineral Springs United Methodist Church. He completed the M.Div. at Hood Charlene Sinclair will join the HTS Theological Seminary and the D.Min. in Church Leadership at faculty as Visiting Lecturer of Asbury Theological Seminary. Prior to entering the ministry, Christian Ethics in the 2016 spring Dr. Mabry had a twenty-year career with Duke Power and term. Ms. Sinclair holds a B.A. in First Union National Bank. His professional experience sociology from Trinity College, a included corporate communications, process reengineering, Master of Divinity from Union change management, and business integration. Theological Seminary (NY) and is pursuing a doctoral degree in Social Christopher Oliver will join the adjunct faculty in the Ethics at Union. Ms. Sinclair is the founding director of the spring 2016 term. He is the Associate Minister of Youth at Center for Race, Religion and Economic Democracy (C-RRED) Simon Temple A.M.E. Zion Church, Fayetteville, NC. He also and is a principal of InSinc Consulting, LLC, in Richmond, VA. serves as a Network Engineer/Architect for the U.S. Army. Previously, she was the program coordinator for the Interfaith Mr. Oliver is pursing Ph.D. studies in Organization Organizing Initiative. Sinclair received the 2015 Leadership and Spirituality (Eastern University). He has an Distinguished Taconic Fellowship, Center for Community M.A. in Christian Practice (Youth Ministry, magna cum Change. Recent publications include “Toward a Twenty-First laude , Duke Divinity School) and an M.S. in Information Century Black Liberation Ethic: A Marxist Reclamation of Technology (Telecommunications Management, University of Ontological Blackness,” in Liberation Theologies for the Maryland) and an M.B.A. from the University of Maryland. Twenty-first Century . Thia Cooper (ed). New York: Palgrave He has a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the U.S. MacMillan, 2013, and “A Womanist Reading of Revelation 12- Military Academy, West Point, NY. He is the chapter Vice 13.” in Christianity and Culture in the City: A Postcolonial President for 100 Black Men of America (Cape Fear Region) Approach. Samuel Cruz (ed). Lexington Books, 2012.

4 Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 New Staff

Patricia Commander joined the sales and marketing at Winston-Salem State University, HTS staff as the Margaret H. Kluttz Johns Hopkins Health Systems, and the Office of Tax and Writing and Resource Center Revenue (Washington, DC). She has a broad range of Coordinator/ Learning Commons experience in administrative/office management, community Librarian. Ms. Commander received relations and customer service. She serves as vice president her Bachelor of Arts in English (with for membership in the Goldmine Club, Toastmasters a Mass Communication minor) from International, Concord, NC. Winston-Salem State University. She earned her Masters in Library and Information Studies Carmen C. Wilder joined the HTS (MLIS) from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. staff in September as Director of Most recently, she was the English & Fine Arts Alumni Engagement and Annual Librarian/Write Start Coordinator at Winston-Salem State Giving. A native of Asheville, NC, Ms. University. She was a two year recipient of the Laura Bush Wilder has worked in Institutional Academic and Cultural Enrichment (ACE) Scholarship. Advancement, Alumni Relations and Development for over 12 years. She Janice D. Silver joined the HTS received her Bachelor’s degree in staff in June as Assistant to the Office Business Administration from Livingstone College and her of Institutional Advancement. Master of Business Administration with a concentration in She received her Bachelor of Science Non-profit Leadership from Franklin University. She has in Business Administration from also earned certificates and has a number of professional North Carolina Wesleyan College in training and development hours in the areas of Fundraising Rocky Mount, NC. Ms. Silver has and Alumni Relations. worked in education, health care,

Faculty News and Notes

Ms. Jess Bellemer presented “Easing the Growing Pains: Elmina Beach by African Anglicans, US Episcopalians and Library Services for the Technology Hesitant Patron” at the other African churches. She attended the fall Seminary Free-Learning Conference 2015 in Boone, NC. While at the Stewardship Alliance (SSA) annual conference as a liaison of American Theological Library Association meeting in June, Hood held at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Ms. Bellemer, along with Shanee Murrain of Payne Wake Forest, NC. In November, she was a presenter at the Theological Seminary, led a discussion on the tragic shooting Society of Biblical Literature annual meeting in Atlanta. at Emanuel A.M.E. Church and on how theological libraries should be responding to acts of violence. In October, Ms. Dr. André Resner’s new book, Living In-Between: Lament, Bellemer presented “This is Your Library on Chrome: Justice, and the Persistence of the Gospel (Cascade, OR: Wipf Perspectives on Chromebooks in Libraries” at the 2015 and Stock, 2015) was released in November. In December, he meeting of the North Carolina Library Association in presented a paper, “Do You See This Woman? A Little Greensboro, NC. Exercise in Homiletical Theology,” at the annual meeting of the Academy of Homiletics at Vanderbilt University in Dr. Dora Mbuwayesango submitted two more reflections Nashville, Tennessee. Prof. Resner participated in the (“Fragrance Oils” and “Cleansing Ritual”) for publications in inaugural Frederick Buechner Writer’s Workshop at the Women’s Common English Bible Edition, a study Princeton Theological Seminary in June. He was the speaker designed for women who lead and serve through their work, at the Opening Convocation in September. In October, Prof. their families and their communities. In September, she Resner joined with other Affiliate Faculty at Christian participated in the Ghana Consultation on sexuality held at Continued on page 6

Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 5 Faculty News and Notes

Continued from page 5 Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, Indiana, to put in Turner was also recently awarded a grant from the General place the final planning for the first Ph.D. program in Commission of Archives and History of the United Methodist “African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric.” That Church to conduct research on Abraham Lincoln, program is set to launch in the fall of 2016. abolitionism, and Methodism.

Dr. Herman Thomas, Adjunct Professor of Pastoral Dr. Ken Walden recently published his third book Practical Theology, presented a Continuing Education Seminar - The Theology for Church Diversity: A Guide for Clergy and History of Christianity and the African American Church – in Congregations (Cascade Books). Last May, he was the October at York Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church, Greenville, speaker at the Seminary’s Honors Awards and Closing NC (Rev. D’Andre James Daniels, host pastor). Sponsored by Convocation. He has been appointed the official Chaplain of Hood Theological Seminary in conjunction with the Eastern the Military Officers Association of America - Salisbury North Carolina Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Zion Church, Chapter. In September, he gave a lecture and book-signing the seminar was designed to increase the awareness of for the military organization. Dr. Walden also gave a series of pastors and lay leaders to significant historical events, lectures during a one day workshop in response to the themes and characters in the evolution of Christianity and Charleston, SC, shooting at Emmanuel A.M.E. Church for a the African American Church. Clergy Group in Conway, SC, in October. He also led a weekly book study in October and November on his new Dr. Bradley R. Trick had a productive sabbatical last publication that includes racial reconciliation for a Clergy spring, finishing his manuscript on Galatians. He is Group in Salisbury, NC. currently in talks with a publisher and hopes to have it under contract soon. He has served on the Board of the Dr. Henry J. Young, Visiting Professor of Theology and Center for Faith and the Arts in Salisbury, NC, since Ethics, presented a Continuing Education Seminar - January and is beginning his second year on the Board Foundations for Theological Exploration – in March. The overseeing First United Methodist Church’s Afterschool Seminar was sponsored by Hood Theological Seminary in Program and Center for Child Development. This fall, Dr. conjunction with the Eastern North Carolina Episcopal Trick led a community-wide six-week study of Romans with a District of the A.M.E. Zion Church. focus on racial reconciliation in Hood’s Aymer Center. The study was jointly sponsored by Soldier’s Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church and St. John’s Lutheran Church. New Board of Trustees Member Dr. Michael K. Turner presented a paper on “Politics, Free Will Theology, and Nineteenth-Century Methodism” at the Hood is pleased to announce the Asbury Theological Seminary’s Summer Wesley Studies appointment of Reverend Randell Seminar held in June. In July, he taught a course “Wesleyan A. Cain, Jr. of Winston-Salem, NC, to Movement” for the Course of Study at Garrett-Evangelical the Board of Trustees. Rev. Cain Theological Seminary in Evanston, Illinois. He has also earned an M.B.A. from Harvard remained active teaching and preaching at local churches. Business School and an M.Div. from He preached at Macedonia United Methodist Church in Hood Theological Seminary. He holds Lexington in April and at Mt. Tabor UMC in Salisbury in a B.S. in Industrial Engineering from September. Also in September, he led a series Georgia Tech and a B.S. from Morehouse College. Rev. Cain of Wednesday night lessons focused on providing a “lay is a Portfolio Manager and Principal Owner of Herndon seminary” experience at First United Methodist Church in Capital Management and an ordained minister in the Salisbury. In November, he presented a two part series at Baptist Church. Currently, he is the Associate Minister and First UMC titled “All the Saints” which looked at (1) Assistant to the Pastor at Zion Memorial Baptist Church. Martyrdom and Sainthood in the Christian Tradition and (2) The Protestant Reformation (And Why It Still Matters). Dr.

6 Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 Campus News

“This is a wonderful day. I’ve never The Seminary received a $100,000 gift from the Dr. Leon — seen this one before.” Maya Angelou Walter Watts II Memorial Scholarship Fund, Inc. to the Seminary’s Restricted Endowment to establish a Professorial And so it is at Hood Theological Seminary where every Chair in Black Theology and the Black Church in memory of day brings new blessings and reasons for us to feel Truly Dr. Watts. Members of the Board of Trustees of the Fund, Thankful ! We are blessed with a gifted faculty, dedicated headquartered in Hempstead, New York, were present at the staff, and a bright, diverse, engaged student body. We are Endowment Convocation in February. They began this effort also most grateful for all of you – our alumni and friends, and the foundations, churches and corporations who support the Seminary with their grants and monetary and in-kind gifts. While every gift, small and large, is appreciated and well- stewarded, here are some highlights of the many different ways in which you have helped us to advance the mission of the Seminary and to impact the lives of our students and the communities of faith where they serve.

The Rev. Andrew McLean and Dr. Olivia ten years ago in honor of Dr. Watts. In announcing the T. Spaulding House, a endowment gift, Dr. Vergel Lattimore said, “We are indeed gift to the Seminary by honored and very blessed to be the recipient of this their son, Dr. Henry A. extraordinary gift. Dr. Watts was a distinguished A.M.E. Moses, was dedicated Zion pastor, a scholarly teacher and theologian, and a caring on October 1, 2015. mentor for the developmental formation of pastors. Dr. Moses is Professor Emeritus of Biochemistry and Former ” Director of Continuing Education and Assistant Vice President for Academic Support, Meharry Medical College, In 2015, Hood Seminary Nashville, Tennessee. Currently, Dr. Moses is Executive received a significant bequest from Director of The the Lawrence Lee Lacquement Meharry National estate (Morristown, NJ) to the Alumni Association. Albert J. D. Aymer Endowed The house is now the Scholarship Fund. This scholarship Presidential Residence was established in 1998 in honor of and an inviting venue President Aymer by the First for special Seminary Presbyterian Church of Salisbury, North Carolina, with later meetings and events. contributions from Mr. and Mrs. William C. Stanback and others. The bequest is a fitting tribute to Dr. Aymer by Mr. and Mrs. Lacquement, friends and members of his The Seminary held its annual Endowment Convocation congregation in New Jersey before he relocated to Salisbury last February and received a record-breaking total of to become Dean of the Seminary. contributions for the restricted endowment - more than $180,000 from the Bishops and people of the A.M.E. Zion Church, as well as faculty, students, staff, alumni and Eight years ago, Dr. Trevor Williams made a gift to the friends. The featured speaker, Bishop Seth O. Lartey, Seminary of many symbolic wood carvings including the Presiding Prelate of the Western West Africa Episcopal District, preached on “Ministering in the Manner of Jesus.” Continued on page 18

Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 7 Commencement 2015

Hood Theological Master of Divinity degree from Louisville Presbyterian Seminary’s fourteenth Theological Seminary, a Master of Theology degree from commencement took place on Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, a Post-Graduate May 16 th , a beautiful spring Certificate in Patient Counseling from Virginia day full of promise and Commonwealth University, and the Doctor of Ministry degree excitement, when hundreds from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. She is the gathered to celebrate and 59th bishop and the first female bishop in the Christian honor the graduates who Methodist Episcopal Church since it was founded in 1870. received the Doctor of Ministry, Master of Divinity Bishop Mildred “Bonnie” Hines received a Bachelor of Arts Speaker Snorton urged and Master of Theological from Mars Hill College, Mars Hills, NC, and a Master of Arts Graduates to be “Ordinary” Studies degrees. from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She was The commencement speaker, Teresa Elaine Snorton, awarded a Master of Divinity degree and a Doctor of Ministry Bishop of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, began degree from the Interdenominational Theological Center in her powerful address with a verse from the well-known Atlanta, GA and certification in Clinical Pastoral Counseling spiritual Going to Shout All Over God’s Heaven : “I’ve got from the Colgate Rochester School of Divinity in Rochester, shoes, you’ve got shoes, all of God’s children got shoes.” She NY. Bishop Hines was elected in 2008 at the 48th General used the song to encourage the graduates to take off their Conference of the A.M.E. Zion Church as the 98th bishop in shoes and be ordinary. “I want to remind you your task is to be the line of succession. She is the first female to be elected to ordinary, do ordinary things, make room for God to show up the episcopacy in the 217 year history of the denomination. and do the extraordinary,” Snorton said. “When you take off your shoes you are vulnerable. God is calling for complete trust Bishop William Phillips DeVeaux was consecrated as the and surrender.” As she concluded her speech, Snorton removed 113 th Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church in her shoes and placed them on the podium. All in attendance 1996. In addition to a bachelor’s degree from Howard stood and cheered and some graduates removed their shoes University, he attained a Bachelor of Sacred Theology from prior to walking across the stage to receive their diplomas. Boston University as well as a Master of Arts and Doctor of Snorton spoke of her humble beginnings — a once ordinary girl Phi losophy from Vanderbilt University. He has served on the – who now is the presiding bishop of the Fifth Episcopal faculties of Meharry Medical College, Princeton Theological District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. Seminary and Howard University School of Divinity. There were two very unique and special moments during the program. During the awarding of degrees, the family of the Sara DuBose Cook , is a cum laude graduate of Catawba late Rev. Kelly Ottinger who passed away earlier in the year, College, Salisbury, NC. Her leadership, tireless efforts, and came to the stage to receive his Master of Divinity degree quiet philanthropy have benefitted numerous non-profit awarded posthumously. Later, there was a ceremonial burning organizations in and around Salisbury and Rowan County. of the mortgage for the campus property which was paid off She has been a champion of Hood Seminary for many years, this year by the A.M.E. Zion Church. Bishop Battle led a litany serving on the first President’s Advisory Council and then on composed by Dr. Mary Love. the Board of Trustees since 2009. She has helped guide the Seminary though three phases of the Second Century Capital Honorary Degree Recipients Campaign including the recent $2.9 million refectory campaign to build the Albert J.D. Aymer Center for Spiritual During the ceremony, four individuals were awarded honorary Growth and Ministerial Formation. For two years she has Doctor of Humane Letters degrees in recognition of their worked closely with the Director of the Library to develop a leadership and contributions to education, church and Writing Center in the Seminary library. The Center strives to community. integrate the development of library research skills with the building of academic writing skills critical to graduate level Bishop Teresa Snorton is a graduate of Vanderbilt theological education. Once again she and her husband, Bob, University with a Bachelor of Arts degree. She received a quietly stepped up and gave of their own resources to make Continued on page 9 8 Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 Commencement 2015

Continued from page 8 this initiative a new component of Hood’s outstanding Writing Center to the Margaret H. Kluttz Writing and theological library. Resource Center in honor of Kluttz’s service to the Seminary for 5 years as Development Officer. It is a fitting tribute to one whose initiative and leadership opened new avenues for The Margaret H. Kluttz Writing and institutional advancement of the Seminary that has Resource Center strengthened Hood’s relationships within the community and A highlight of the commencement program was when Sara beyond. Kluttz retired in June to spend more time with her and Bob Cook announced the re-naming of the Library’s family and her newly-retired husband, George. Photos continued on pages 22 & 23

Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 9 Fifteen Endowed Scholarship Recipients Announced for 2015-2016

The Seminary is pleased to announce the recipients of The Bishop George E. and Iris Battle permanently endowed scholarships for 2015-2016. We Scholarship: congratulate these students for their academic excellence and Frances Greene , is an AME Zion student from Kannapolis, great potential as future leaders in their diverse faith NC. She received her BA degree from the College of New communities. We are deeply grateful to the alumni, friends, Rochelle in Psychology and Sociology. She began her churches, and foundations who have made these scholarships ministerial journey in 2005 in Hartford, CT and continued possible through their generosity and commitment to Hood. ministry in 2009 at Rock Hill AME Zion Church, Indian Trail, NC. Frances is currently in her second year of the Masters in Divinity Program. The Dr. Albert J. D. Aymer Scholarship: Teresa Cromedy is a native of Huger, SC, a small town about 15 minutes outside of Charleston, SC. After high The Dr. Frank and Fletcher Brown school, she served in the U.S. Navy for 11 Scholarship: years specializing in Aviation Electronics. Travis Davis , a Baptist student, is from Gastonia, NC. Cromedy earned a bachelor’s degree in Technical Management with a minor in Aviation Safety from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, The Dr. Robert Harkrader Scholarship: FL, and went further to receive an MBA from Wingate Johnny Lord serves as a UMC Pastor in University in Wingate, NC. She currently resides in Stokes County, NC with the members of Charlotte, NC, with friends and a loving church family. Her Palmyra and Stokesburg United ministerial journey began in 2011, and she is presently Methodist Churches. He transferred to serving at Jonahville AME Zion Church, in Huntersville, HTS in January 2015 and is on track to NC, as a Local Preacher. Teresa says, “As an M.Div. senior, I graduate May 2016. He has been married look forward to the new journey God has in store for me.” to his wife Angie for 23+ years and they have three daughters, Stephanie (Brandon), Denise, and Katie, as well is a native of Augusta, GA. Kevin Griffin as two grandsons Joel and Jake. “I consider it a great He earned a Bachelor of Business honor to be this year’s recipient of the Dr. Robert Administration in Computer Information Harkrader Scholarship!” Systems from Georgia Southern and a Masters of Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University. He has over twenty years of leadership and business experience in The Ellen and James Robert Keever the field of Information Technology. He is an ordained Scholarship: Baptist Minister, and is currently serving as an associate Preciouse Wilson , a Baptist student from minister at Chappell Memorial Baptist Church in Monroe, NC, is a native of Monrovia, Charlotte, NC, where Norman E. Kerry Jr. is the pastor. In Liberia, West Africa. He holds a B.S. in addition, he currently serves as a Cooperative Baptist Chemistry from the University of Liberia, a Fellowship Intern for Racial Reconciliation. Last but B.S. in Nursing from Winston-Salem State certainly not least, he is married to Angelle Griffin and they University and dual Masters in Business have two daughters, Kyla and Mayah. and Health Care Management from Phoenix University. He has worked as a nurse for over 15 years and is a licensed Adjinoria Tomlin is an A.M.E. Zion student from minister at Rocky Ridge Missionary Baptist Church (Pastor Wilmington, NC. Dr. E. R. Kirkpatrick) where he serves as Sunday School Superintendent and teacher. He is married to Loretta Wilson Eleanor Wilson is an A.M.E. Zion student from and they have two children, Elijah and Faith. Rev. Wilson Gastonia, NC. says, “When I am at Hood, I am at home.”

10 Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 The Thomas William Langford Scholarship: Exercise Physiology from UNC-Chapel Hill and a B.S in Dana Caldwell , a UMC student, was Nursing, cum laude from NC Central University. He called to move to Raleigh, NC, 18 years presently works as a Clinical Specialist for Johnson & ago. Coming from the Midwest, this was Johnson and assists Cardiologists at Duke and WakeMed the first big adventure to which God called Hospitals in the treatment of abnormal arrhythmias of the her. Dana grew up in a small town in the heart. He has done extensive volunteer work in the battered Midwest and earned a bachelor’s degree in women’s shelter, with Breast Cancer awareness, and an History Education at Illinois State University. She is abroad study to Africa where gratuitous health services currently full time student and serving in a field education were provided to Ghanaian citizens. He also created a appointment at Avent Ferry United Methodist Church. Her company called CMP Media Group, a multimedia and music two life companions are beagles, Buddy 13 and Abby 5, who production company. Rev. Mathews is blissfully married to make her laugh every day. She is very blessed to be his high school sweetheart, Renita Garrison. attending Hood Seminary as she explores the next adventure to which God has called her.

The Jim Arthur Wadford Scholarship: Joshua Gilliam , a Doctor of Ministry The Bishop George J. Leake, III Scholarship: student, is rector of Resurrection Anglican Church which recently opened its doors in Antoinette E. Joiner was born and raised in Washington, DC. She retired Concord, NC. He also shares his time with from the US Office of Personnel La Misión, a Spanish Anglican church Management in 2006 and moved to which meets at Kerr Street United Winston-Salem. She is mother of one son Methodist Church in Concord. who is a 2010 graduate of Livingstone He received a B.A. in Spanish from Queens University in College. Nurtured in the Philadelphia/Baltimore Annual Charlotte, NC, and a Master of Divinity from Liberty Conference, she has been actively involved in the A.M.E. Theological Seminary in Lynchburg, VA. Joshua was a police Zion Church. Her ministerial journey started April 8, 2007, officer and served his country as a 1st lieutenant in the Easter Sunday, by preaching her trial sermon at Goler Army. Prayer and discernment led Joshua to the Anglican Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church where she has served as a Church of North America and he was ordained as an Deacon and the instructor for the New Members Class and Anglican priest in April 2015. Father Joshua spends many is scheduled to be ordained Elder on April 8, 2016. “If I can hours in intensive prayer and study preparing for each help somebody as I pass along this way, then my living will Sunday sermon. He says, “Breaking open the word of God not be in vain.” for the people of God is the highest of vocations because it reaches into the heart of God.” He lives in Enochville with his wife Nelva and their four children.

The Andrew McLean Spaulding Scholarship: David Taylor is a UMC student from Sherrills Ford, NC. The Margaret C. Woodson Foundation Scholarship: David Cochran is the proud husband of The Bishop Richard K. Thompson Jamie, and father of five year old son Scholarship: Cameron. David and Jamie are natives of Charles Mathews, an A.M.E. Zion Locust, NC and Oakboro, NC. Jamie is student, was born in Los Angeles, CA, but pursuing her Master’s Degree in Nurse raised in Mt. Gilead and Winston-Salem, Education and currently is employed at NC. Charles has fervently served in the Cabarrus College where she a clinical instructor. David is a Kingdom of God in capacities such as graduate of the University of North Carolina-Charlotte with church administrator, praise and worship a degree in History and is currently entering his ninth year leader, and minister, to name a few. He holds a B.A in Continued on page 15

Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 11 Honor Roll of Donors In grateful recognition of all those whose financial and in-kind gifts given between July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015 supported and strengthened the mission of HTS.

Visionary Council Hurley Trammell Foundation Rev. Patricia C. Turner $100,000+ Impossible Made Possible Solutions Mrs. Carol Valencourt The A.M.E. Zion Church Mr. Althier Jones Weeping Willow AME Zion Church Lawrence Lee Lacquement (Estate of) Rev. Cynthia Keever R. J. Wright Company Dr. Henry A. Moses Mr. and Mrs. Glenn E. Ketner Jr. Dr. Henry J. Young Leon Walter Watts II Scholarship Fund, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Langford Dr. Mary A. Love Heritage Club President’s Council Dr. and Mrs. Richard Martin $100 – $249 $50,000 – $99,999 Mrs. Mary H. Messinger A.M.E. Zion Church, Board of Evangelism Bishop Joseph Johnson Rev. Dr. Benjamin L. Morrow American Safety Products NC Synod - ELCA Ms. Elaine P. Archie James Walker Hood Society New England Conference- AME Zion Chuhrch Rev. Dora Atlas $10,000 – $49,999 North Alabama Conference - AME Zion Church Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Barnum Jr. Rev. Randell Alfredine Cain Jr. Palmetto Conference AME Zion Church Mr. and Mrs. Matt Barr Central NC Annual Conference - AME Zion Church Pee Dee Conference - AME Zion Church Dr. Wilbert W. Blackman Chatlos Foundation, Inc. Mr. Larry Peeler Barbara Brandon Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Cook Jr. Mr. David B. Post Ms. Ethel Broome David Boyd Davis Charitable Trust Rev. Franklin L. Rush Laverna A. Brown Dickson Foundation Dr. Brenda L.G. Smith Bryants Chapel AME Zion Church Mr. R. Darrell Hancock South Alabama Conference - AME Zion Church Mr. Henry H. Buck Jr. KKA Architecture South Carolina Conference Rev. Dr. Carolyn E. Buford Mid-Atlantic I Episcopal District - AME Zion Church Southwest Rocky Mountain Conference Rev. Sonya N. Burns Midwest Area Fund- AME Zion Church Rev. and Mrs. Edward Spence Jr. Rev. Dr. and Mrs. Walter Butler Piedmont Episcopal District - AME Zion Church Rev. Ada M Taylor Mr. and Mrs. John Casey Blanche and Julian Robertson Foundation Dr. and Mrs. Jim R. Wadford Rev. Dr. Medis W. Cheek Wilson L. Smith Family Foundation Dr. Ken J. Walden Mrs. Christy Cline Mr. and Mrs. William C. Stanback Wells Fargo Educational Matching Gift Program Rev. Dr. Arnold Gene Cobb Jr. Bishop and Mrs. Richard K. Thompson West Alabama Annual Conference - AME Zion Church Dr. Elaine J. Copeland WH&OMS of the AME Zion Church Mr. and Mrs. James G. Whitton Rev. Dr. and Mrs. Keith T. Copeland Margaret Cunningham Woodson Foundation Rev. Frances Elizabeth Williams Rev. Johnnie L. Council Rev. Frank W. Davis Jr. William Orlando Carrington Club Earthen Vessel Club Rev. Erlinda C. Dobson $5,000 - $9,999 $500 – $999 Rev. Dr. Michael E. Ellis Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Alcorn Ms. Courtney Anderson Rev. and Mrs. Ronald David Felts Bishop and Mrs. George E. Battle Jr. Mr. Jonathan Ankney Rev. Dr. Lamont Freeman Foster Blue Ridge Conference - AME Zion Church Rev. Carolyn D. Bratton Rev. Dr. Timothy Lavar Freeman Carolina Color Corp. Rev. Dr. Sondra M. Coleman Rev. and Mrs. John P. Gant Coca-Cola Bottling Company Consolidated Dr. Lawrence T. Evans Ms. Lillian H. Gascoigne The Honorable Elizabeth Dole Rev. and Mrs. Alfonza Everett Lillie Mae Gilchrist Friendship Missionary Baptist Church Mr. Kevin and Rev. Dana Fruits Dr. Alice M. Graham Mrs. Mary Anne Laningham Rev. Fredna B. Grimmett Rev. Dr. Robert L. Graham Dr. and Mrs. Vergel L. Lattimore Rev. Dr. Grant and Dr. Joanne Harrison Pel. Herbert Grant Mid-Atlantic II Episcopal District - AME Zion Church Rev. Tony D. Henderson Mr. Robert H. Graves New York Conference - AME Zion Church John Wesley AME Zion Church Ms. Lillian D. Graves Philadelphia Baltimore Conference - AME Zion Church Cecil Jones Greater Centennial AME Zion Church Mrs. Lois Pruehsner Rev. Dr. William M. Jordan III Austin W. Greene Salisbury Community Foundation Rev. Dr. George H. McNeely Greenville Memorial AME Zion Church Southwestern Delta Episcopal D Mrs. Carol D. Palmer Mr. Michael C. Grier Virginia Conference of the AME Zion Church Mr. Donald Peery Rev. Thomas L. Griffis Wells Fargo Foundation The Honorable Adele M. Riley Rev. Debra Hall Western Episcopal District - AME Zion Church Rockwell Farms Rev. Leroy D. Henry Western New York Conference - AME Zion Church Rev. Claude Shuford Rev. Dr. and Mrs. Mack T. Hines Rev. Dr. Andrew E. Whitted Dr. and Mrs. Matthew Sleeth Mrs. Frances Ward Black Holland Rev. Lester E. Smith Dr. Roy D. Hudson W. J. Walls Club Mr. and Mrs. Richard S. Snyder Bishop and Mrs. Louis Hunter Sr. $1,000 – $4,999 Mr. and Mrs. Victor Wallace Rev. and Mrs. Ricky C Johnson Alabama Conference - AME Zion Church Western West Africa Conference - AME Zion Church Mr. Ralph W. Ketner Albemarle Annual Conference - AME Zion Church William M. White Sr. Foundation Ms. Marjorie A. Kinard Anonymous Ms. Pearlie Klutz Mr. and Mrs. Antonio Almeida Jr. Crimson and Gold Club Dr. Caroline L. Lattimore Dr. Thomas E. Asbury $250 – $499 Rev. Javan J. Leach Mrs. Nancy R. Baker Dr. and Mrs. James David Armstrong Rev. Samuel McMaster Lewis Blessed Earth Rev. Dr. Ethel Bamberg-Reavis Mr. Xenophone Lutz Rev. Dr. William Frank Blue Cloninger Ford-Toyota Continued on page 13 Mr. Reginald W. Brown Rev. George and Rev. Phyllis Coates Rev. and Mrs. Lee Edward Bynum Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Coltrain Central Alabama Conference - AME Zion Church Rev. and Mrs. Stephen R. Combs “I am honored and encouraged to be a Mr. and Mrs. Charlie T. Davidson Rev. Dr. Regina Dancy scholarship recipient for this academic year. Bishop William P. DeVeaux Sr. Glenwood United Methodist Church Rev. Karen Crouch Doucette Dr. Donald Haynes The generosity of the Hood donors who Eastern West Africa Episcopal District Rev. Rodvegas and Rev. Tamara Ingram made this scholarship possible has enabled Rev. Dr. James C. Evans Rev. N. Fred Jordan Jr. F&M Bank Rev. Sharon T. Lee me to press forward toward my academic Rev. Dr. and Mrs. James W. Ferree Dr. and Mrs. Robert Lewis goals with fewer burdens and to stay on First United Church of Christ Foundation Dr. Dora R. Mbuwayesango First United Methodist Church Dr. Daran H. Mitchell target for completion. Mere words can’t Florida Conference- AME Zion Church Rev. Dr. Bertha E. Pittman express the magnitude of my appreciation. Col. and Mrs. William W. Gore Mr. and Mrs. David E. Setzer Rev. Dr. and Mrs. Wardell Henderson St. Mark AME Zion Church Thank you for helping me to fulfill God’s call Mrs. Lovetta Holmes Rev. Vermel H. Taylor on my life for ministry!” Hood Theological Seminary Alumni Association Trinity AME Zion Church Dr. Beatrice Asbury Houston Mrs. Melody Anne Troncale — Teresa J. Cromedy, Master of Divinity Student

12 Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 Honor Roll of Donors “Being a recipient of this scholarship has Rev. and Mrs. Walter B. Christian Syteria Ariene Townsend truly been a blessing; it lightened my Earl Clark Rev. Mildred Twitty Rev. Tammi Colston Ms. Karen Jackson Vaughn financial burden and allowed me to Committee to Elect Eric L. Leake for Bishop Rev. Beverly Warner continue being a full time student. Dr. MonaLisa Covington Joseph L. Washington Suzanne Marie Crouse Mrs. Phyllis C. Wells Without scholarship patrons willing to Mrs. Angela Davis-Baxter Linda Harrington Wharton support theological education, students Mr. Robert J. Edwards Rev. Stephanie Lavern Wilson such as me would be unable to pursue Ms. Fay L. Fagan Rev. and Mrs. Robert Andrew Wiltshire Ms. Sarah J. Fleming Mr. and Mrs. Paul B. Woodson advanced theology degrees. Thanks to Dr. Gary Freeze Rev. and Mrs. Rhodes Woolly this generous scholarship, I am one step Ernest Winfred Frierson Your Cause, LLC closer to graduating.” Sis. Margo Hood Gaddy Dr. and Mrs. Larry Gish Please note: this listing of gifts is for the fiscal year — Eleazar L. Partida, Master of Divinity Student Goler Memorial AME Zion Church 7/1/15 through 6/30/15. Gifts made after that period Dr. and Mrs. Myron A. Goodman Jr. will be honored in our next publication. Every effort has Shirley Sims Gray been made to acknowledge every Hood donor. If you Continued from page 12 Ms. Kelly Greene believe an error has been made, please contact Janice M & R Cleaning, Inc. Mrs. Belinda K Harris Silver at 704-636-6926 or [email protected]. Mr. Richard Macer Rev. Dr. Otto D. Harris III Martin Temple AME Zion Church Plyler LaMont Hemphill Fr. R. Paul Mathis Ms. Faye V. Henry Rev. Dr. Douglas L. Maven Doris Lynn Hicks Memorials and Honoraria: Rev. Paul S. Hoggard Mr. James McDougald In memory of Annie Wright Jones Dr. Mary McKnight-Taylor Mr. Timothy L. Holmes Mr. Althier Jones Rev. Dr. Michael Eldred McLean Dr. Catrelia Hunter Rev. Sandra McNiel Ms. Agnes Patrick Jennings In memory of Margaret and Alonzo Klutz Ms. Pearlie Klutz Vincent Marlowe Meares Rev. Franklin H. Johnson Metropolitan AME Zion Church Ms. Mary G. Johnson In memory of Lillian Macer Rev. Dr. Calvin and Rev. Sharon Miller Tonisha Chalon Johnson Mr. Richard Macer Cheryl Giles Johnson Hannie Donald Milling Jr. In memory of Gladys Mackey Captain John C. Mitchell Rev. Reginald Keitt Mr. Joel T. Mackey Dr. Kendal P. Mobley Rev. Trishaun M. Kendall Rev. Janita Frances King In memory of Bishop James E. McCoy Mr. Gary D. Morgan Ms. Fay L. Fagan Mt. Calvary AME Zion Church Mr. and Mrs. George Kluttz Rev. Miles Murphy Jr. Rev. Dr. and Mrs. Eric Leake In memory of Mrs. Doris M. Peay Rev. Dr. Milford Oxendine Thomas D. Lee Ms. Elaine P. Archie Dr. Clemmie Lee Palmer III Liberty Hill AME Zion Church In memory of Mrs. Jennie Sparks Dr. William L. Pollard Reverends Adam and Tracy Christopher Love Mr. James A. Sparks Jr. Ms. Carla Ray Ms. Maria L. Machado Mr. Joel T. Mackey In memory of Dr. J. Roy Valencourt Rev. and Mrs. Silas E. Redd Mrs. Carol Valencourt Dr. André Resner Rev. Kristina Kay Mares Mrs. Montrose Robinson Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Mast In memory of Mrs. Annette Whitted Rev. Tamica L. Robinson Rev. Dr. William A. McCartney Rev. Dr. Robert L. Graham Dr. Wilbert L. Sadler Dr. William McKenith In memory of Dr. Yates Salisbury District- AME Zion Church Rev. Dr. Edward D. McKinney Rev. and Mrs. Silas E. Redd Dr. Josephine Scott Rev. David Alexander McLean In honor of Tony and Margaret Almeida Rev. Vernon Shannon Rev. David Lee McLendon Dr. Wilbert W. Blackman Ms. Carolyn Sharp Rev. Dr. Mary Elizabeth Miller Dr. Bethany S. Sinnott Rev. Jeannette H. Moore In honor of Dr. Albert J. D. Aymer Dr. James M. Sloan Rev. Jackie Morrison Mrs. Frances Ward Black Holland Dr. Bethany S. Sinnott Rev. Juston Ray Smith LeCounte Padrae Nedab II South Atlantic Episcopal District - AME Zion Church North Star AME Zion Church In honor of Ethel U. Baldwin Spottswood AME Zion Church Min. Karen Lenora Owens Mrs. Joy Lattimore Rev. Susie Page Bishop and Mrs. Darryl B. Starnes Jr. In honor of Rev. Malcolm Byrd Dr. and Mrs. Leslie H. Stokes Debra McCrae Patterson Rev. Dr. Grant Harrison Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Storey Charlotte Darlene Pinkett Rev. Dr. Valentine Oden Sutton Rev. Brian Edward Preveaux In honor of John Robert Crawford, IV Dr. and Mrs. Larry Gish Dr. Herman E. Thomas Ms. Eunice L. Rankin Dr. Bradley Ryan Trick RCP Metals, Inc. In honor of the Doctoral Program at Hood Rev. Lawrence R. Turner Rev. Brenda Smith Richardson Rev. Dr. Arnold Gene Cobb Jr. Rev. Tyrone K. Rigsby Dr. Curtis T. Walker Sr. In honor of Dr. Trevor Eppehimer Rev. Dr. Dwayne A. Walker Kenneth Douglas Rowe Rev. and Mrs. Walter B Christian Mr. and Mrs. Philip H. Warrick Elizabeth Ann Samuel Cleveland Sanders In honor of James and Linda Freeman Rev. Dr. Valerie J. Washington Rev. and Mrs. Stephen R. Combs Rev. Dr. Franklin D. Watkins Chad Howard Shoaf WH&OMS - Concord District Rev. Sheila Denise Sholes-Ross In honor of Bishop Joseph Johnson WH&OMS - San Diego District Rev. Clarence J. Shuford Jr. Mr. Xenophone Lutz Sterling H. Whitener David Tyrone Smalls In honor of Mrs. Margaret Kluttz Rev. Victor Alan Wilfong Jesse Ray Smith Mrs. Frances Ward Black Holland George Williams Rev. Dr. Andrew B. Smoke Rev. and Mrs. Rhodes Woolly Rev. Warren D. Williams Jr. Snow Hill AME Zion Church Mr. James A. Sparks Jr. In honor of Dr. Vergel Lattimore Mrs. Anna L. Wyatt Ms. Mildred Brewer Rev. Charles Scott Spence Ms. Mary G. Johnson Dean’s List Mr. and Mrs. Richard W. Starbuck Ms. Eunice L. Rankin $1 – $99 Rev. Michael Jerome Steele Ms. Annie L. Timmons Rev. Catherine Black-Terry Mr. Paul Ezra Strahan Rev. Ruth A. Boatwright Dorothy L. Sullivan In honor of Ned Storey Mr. Andrew Storey Ms. Ethel Bray Rev. Willie Lee Swiney Ms. Mildred Brewer Rev. James Preston Tate In honor of Brad and Elizabeth Trick Rev. Cleo Alister Brooks Jr. Mrs. Elizabeth H. Taylor Rev. and Mrs. Rhodes Woolly Rev. Keithon L. Terry Betty Black Brown In honor of Jane Webb Lawrence Cantey Jr. Norma R. Tillman Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Mast Ms. Andria Shores Cantrell Ms. Annie L. Timmons Continued on page 14

Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 13 Honor Roll of Donors Continued from page 13 “I would like to take this opportunity to express a heartfelt thank you to the many generous donors of Hood Theological Seminary for their help in making seminary affordable for me and so many others. I enrolled at Hood unsure of where the financial resources would be found. … I was blessed to receive scholarship funds that made it possible for me to graduate debt free …. Many lives are being reached for Jesus Christ because of the individuals, businesses and foundations that support Hood Seminary. My life has been changed and touched, too, as well as many lives in the congregations of my local churches, because of the donors who contribute so much to Hood. On behalf of all the lives changed, including my own, I would like to say a heartfelt thank you!” — Rev. Brian Preveaux, M.Div. Class of 2015, who spoke at the Bishop James Walker Hood Donor Appreciation Dinner.

Giving to Hood is Easy at www.hoodseminary.edu! (Click on Donate tab on home page.)

Eleventh Annual Bishop James Walker Hood Dinner

Eleventh Annual Bishop James Walker Hood invested in the Seminary’s permanent endowment. Dr. Dinner Honors Bishops Johnson and Bolick Regina Dancy, Chief Financial Officer, spoke of the Seminary’s careful stewardship of all charitable The Eleventh Annual Bishop James Walker Hood Donor contributions to annual scholarships and the annual fund Appreciation Dinner was held on May 14 in the Aymer and Dr. Trevor Eppehimer, Academic Dean, shared his Center. This annual event was held to recognize and thank vision of the stewardship of our students and the counseling those individuals who have given a thousand dollars or and support they receive to make their education at Hood as more in the last year to the Seminary. “This year Hood has successful as possible. Two Seminary students, Rev. Brian much to be thankful for,” said President Vergel Lattimore, Preveaux and Rev. Teresa Cromedy, gave stirring “and we celebrate each of you here this evening for your on- testimonials on the importance of the guidance they receive going support to Hood Seminary.” during every step along the way of their seminary journey The theme of this year’s event, attended by about 100 and of the financial support from scholarships made possible guests, was Stewardship – of the gifts we receive from by Hood’s donors. donors, of our students and of our resources. Richard The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Blankenship of Franklin Street Partners in Chapel Hill prestigious Bishop James Walker Hood Awards for spoke about his firm’s careful stewardship of the dollars Continued on page 15

Dr. Regina Dancy, HTS Chief Financial Officer

14 Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 Eleventh Annual Bishop James Walker Hood Dinner

Continued from page 14 Distinguished Service - the highest honor Hood Seminary bestows on its donors, leaders and supporters. President Lattimore, President Emeritus Albert J.D. Aymer, and Chairman of the Board Bishop Richard K. Thompson thanked this year’s recipients for their constant support and generous contributions of time and talent to the mission of Hood Theological Seminary. Bishop Joseph Johnson, retired bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, was recognized for his many years of faithful service to the A.M.E. Zion Church and President Vergel Lattimore, Bishop Richard K. Thompson, Chair - man of the Board of Trustees, President Emeritus Dr. Albert J. D. to Hood Theological Seminary, and for his generous Aymer, Bishop Leonard Bolick contributions in talents and resources in support of its mission. Bishop Johnson’s formal association with Hood has been long and distinguished, beginning in the 1960s when he took Hood Extension classes taught by his pastor, Ruben L. Speaks, who became a Bishop in the A.M.E. Zion Church. In addition, he served two ten year terms as Adjunct Professor of Practical Ministry from 1982-92 and from 2004-14. He also served as Director of the Diploma program; Academic Advisor and reader in the Doctor of Ministry program, and Bishop-in-Residence. He guided Hood in its journey to Bishop Thompson, President Lattimore, Dr. Aymer, Bishop Joseph become an accredited and free-standing seminary and he Johnson became its first chairman of the Board of Trustees. He now serves as a trustee emeritus, a generous benefactor, a kind mentor, and a constant advocate. Bishop Leonard H. Bolick, Senior Bishop of the North Carolina Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (since retired) was recognized for his years of extraordinary leadership to the North Carolina Lutheran Synod, for enriching the Hood Seminary community as a true neighbor in Christ and for his support of the mission of Dr. Vergel Lattimore welcomes guests Hood Seminary. He was also honored for his key role in the historic Agreement signed by the Board of Bishops of the and national levels. That effort can be pointed to as one African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church and the of the first times, if not the first time, in the history of Conference of Bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church our nation, that an agreement of this kind between a in America in 2010 and the beginning of bilateral discourse historically white church and a historically black church between the two denominations that continues today at local was signed.

Scholarship Recipients for 2015-2016 Continued from page11 teaching Social Studies at Carolina Christian School in for Christ. David is grateful for the Margaret Woodson Locust, and his second year serving as Youth Minister at Foundation’s support as he begins his Westford United Methodist Church in Concord NC. David has Seminary education at Hood Theological a passion for ministering to young people, spending time with Seminary. family, outdoor activities, and sports. David is excited about his call to full time ministry and looks forward to being Eleazar Partida is a UMC student in the equipped at Hood Theological Seminary to impact the world M.Div. program from Laurinburg, NC.

Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 15 Campus Events

“Beginning a Healing Conversation” A Community Forum Hosted by Hood Seminary

Panelists for the Forum

Dr. Vergel Lattimore, HTS President, served as moderator

Many from the Salisbury/Rowan community attended the forum

Rev. Tim Bates

16 Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 Campus Events

Hood Theological Seminary hosted a Community Forum and Racial Reconciliation this fall. Dr. Bradley R. Trick, who on July 30 th in the Aymer Center on the Seminary campus to led the study, said that he chose Romans as the focus address the need to foster better relations, respect, and because, contrary to many popular interpretations, the understanding regarding race, justice and peace. The forum entire letter actually constitutes an extended critique of the was the result of conversations that President Vergel racial segregation among the believers in Rome, where Lattimore had been privileged to share with different Jewish Christians were apparently worshipping together individuals and groups in Salisbury and Rowan County over apart from the gentile Christians, and vice versa. the last two years. “We believe the Seminary is a place for Essentially, Trick suggests, Paul argues throughout the respectful, critical discussion of painful and sometimes letter that the two groups must come together, not only for difficult issues affecting society. There are a number of their own sakes, but for the sake of their community: by self- issues that have divided many communities across this segregating, they were projecting a false image of God that great nation of the United States of America. Salisbury is essentially called his righteousness into question and kept not exempt from these challenges. We believe that honest his life from flowing through to their community. The conversation is a good place to start,” said Dr. Lattimore. implications for the church today are both straightforward The panel, moderated by Lattimore, was composed of Dr. and sobering. Accordingly, for six weeks from Oct 15 to Nov Gary Freeze, Professor of History, Catawba College; Rev. Dr. 19, Hood students and alumni gathered together on Grant Harrison, Hood alumnus and Presiding Elder of the Thursday nights in the Aymer Center with members of the Salisbury District – Western NC Conference of the A.M.E. two sponsoring churches and the wider Salisbury Zion Church; Rev. Kris Mares, Hood alumna and Pastor of community to share a meal, study the book of Romans, and Mount Tabor United Methodist Church (Salisbury); Rev. Dr. think together about these implications for the church and Jim Dunkin, Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church society. The study was well received, with attendance (Salisbury); Rev. Dr. Ken Walden, Associate Professor of ranging from 35 to 55 people and online videos of the six Pastoral Care and Counseling at Hood; and Rev. Timothy sessions collectively garnering over 250 views. Videos from Bates, Hood alumnus and Pastor of Calvary and Cameron the session can be found at Presbyterian Churches (Statesville, NC). https://www.youtube.com/user/HoodNT.

Bible Study – Romans and Racial Book Study Deals with Racial Diversity and Reconciliation Reconciliation As part of its continuing effort to provide theological Dr. Ken J. Walden led a ten-week discussion with clergy leadership in addressing the racial issues of our day, Hood from the area on the theme of racial reconciliation using his partnered with Soldiers Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church and new book “Practical Theology for Church Diversity.” The St. John’s Lutheran Church—representing, respectively, a Rev. Robert Black, Rector of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, historically black denomination and a historically white was one of the participants in the book study. “It was a denomination—to host a community-wide look at Romans wonderful opportunity to talk about our experiences of diversity, both the joys and the struggles,” he said. “We discussed practical ways to improve church diversity, as well as the underlying theological impetuses for joining in God’s work of reconciliation. The clergy who attended also developed stronger ties with each other, which builds a foundation for further ministry in the community. Having Ken lead us in the book study was a true blessing, as it is not often that the author of the book being studied is able to facilitate the discussion.”

Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 17 Campus News

Continued from page 7 magnificent ceremonial mace. In December , Dr. Mary Love and students in her Christian Symbols class honored Dr. The Seminary Williams at First Presbyterian Church in Salisbury, where he has been blessed is a member, for sharing his time, talents and knowledge with gifts of 2 with Hood students for many years. He was presented with a beautiful pianos in plaque to be placed in the educational wing of the church the past two years. along with other carvings. A Richard and Pennie book was also given that Martin of Salisbury explains the Christian donated a splendid symbolism and faith Yamaha baby grand connections incorporated into piano last year which has graced the new Aymer Center and the carvings. The book will provided the opportunity for piano accompaniment for many be placed in the church’s special events and services. Dr. Martin is a Trustee Emeritus archives to be available for of the Seminary. This is just one of the many ways in which study and to honor the he and Pennie Seminary’s deep and have shown their cherished relationship with support of and Dr. Williams. dedication to the Seminary. Also, Mary Anne Laningham, a member of First United Methodist Church in Salisbury, donated a Knabe & Co baby grand piano which replaced an old upright in the Chapel. These pianos have greatly enhanced the life of the Seminary in so many ways and will be enjoyed by all for years to come.

Thank You to Our Sponsors Hood Theological Seminary is deeply grateful to the following Community Corporate and Business Friends for their support of our 2015 Seminary events through generous gifts to the Firm Foundation Annual Fund:

18 Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 Student Focus

Congratulations to HTS student Willie Sherman Parker Jones who was inducted into the “First do your best and let God do the Affordable Housing Finance Hall of Fame rest” are words of wisdom from HTS at the AHF Summit this November in student, Sherman Parker , who wrote a Chicago. Below is a portion of an article in chapter in the book, How Did They Do which he was featured, reprinted with That? - Career Highlights, Triumphs, and permission from the October 2015 issue of Challenges by Deborah Tompkins Johnson Affordable Housing Finance, © Hanley Wood, LLC. To read (Carpenter’s Son Publishing, 2013). In the chapter titled the entire article, please go to “The Corporate Executive,” Parker recounts how God http://www.housingfinance.com/news/change-agent_o. shaped his life through the challenges that confronted him from youth through years as a successful executive in the Change Agent corporate world at Xerox. He tells of being one of two Willie Jones developed thousands of affordable housing units African American students selected to desegregate at The Community Builders. Virginia’s King George County schools in the 1960s. As he By Donna Kimura and his father walked through an angry crowd at the Willie Jones has always worked to make a difference. entrance to the school that first day, Parker says, “My That’s just who he is. father was holding my hand…and I know God was holding Before he was old enough to go to the polls, he was taking his.” The positive example set by his parents and part in voter registration drives in the segregated South grandparents - their character, sacrifice and work ethic - where he was raised. When he graduated from college, he guided and encouraged him. And his relationship with God, dreamed of being a union president. As a young man living in through Bible study and prayer, and the prayers of family, Detroit in the 1980s, he worked with his neighbors to repair carried him through. His “Words of Wisdom” at the end of the boarded buildings on his block. When he later moved to his story are truly inspiring and uplifting. The book is Boston, he fought redlining, the evil practice of denying available through Amazon.com. mortgages in certain neighborhoods based on race. And, most notably, for nearly 30 years, he developed affordable housing in some of the nation’s most broken neighborhoods. Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of North “I’m not great at anything, but I’m good at several Carolina Sponsors Racial Reconciliation things,” says Jones, who recently retired as senior vice Internship president, regions, at The Community Builders (TCB). by Rev. Kevin J. Griffin, “Development is a multi-disciplinary environment. It touches HTS M.Div. student and CBF on several pieces of who you are. I felt this was a job that Racial Reconciliation Intern The Racial Reconciliation Internship, really stretched me and challenged me to learn all the time.” sponsored by the Cooperative Baptist For his longtime work, he is being inducted into Fellowship of North Carolina (CBF - NC), Affordable Housing Finance’s Hall of Fame. is focused on bringing Baptists of North Although he has retired, Jones hasn’t slowed down. He is Carolina Together for Christ-Centered pursuing a master’s degree in theology at Hood Theological Ministry. Seminary in Salisbury, N.C., near Charlotte. In the 2007-08 Strategic Plan for the “Theology has provided a comprehensive framework for CBF of NC, diversity was identified as an initiative shaping the mission-driven work at The Community Builders, for future ministries. To address this need, the 2007 CBF of NC revitalizing neighborhoods where churches are anchor General Assembly approved the formation of a Diversity institutions, and where returning citizens need support in Task Force, for the purpose of making recommendations for successfully integrating or re-integrating into a community,” increasing the diversity of our Fellowship. Jones says. As of July 2007, the Diversity Task Force began working (To read the entire article, please go to toward this end. Ethnic diversity quickly rose to the top of http://www.housingfinance.com/news/change-agent_o .) Continued on page 21

Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 19 Alumni News

President Lattimore greets alumni and guests at a dinner hosted by HTS during the Western NC Conference of the United Methodist Church’s Annual Conference at Lake Junaluska, NC, in June. Rev. Dora Atlas, M.Div. 1976, was honored in February at the 25th anniversary of Our Daily Bread Kitchen, Inc., in Asheboro, NC. Atlas started Our Daily Bread in 1990 and officially retired at the age of 93. Dr. Mary Love presented her with a painting of the chapel where she worshipped at Hood on the campus of Livingstone College. She is the oldest living graduate of the Seminary.

Rev. Dr. Grant Harrison was recognized in February for his service to the Alumni, students, and faculty had opportunities for fellowship at Lake Seminary as its first President of the Alumni Association formed after the Junaluska in June. HTS became independent.

Congratulations to the new officers of the Hood Theological Seminary Alumni Association (HTSAA) who were installed on October 1st by Bishop Richard K. Thompson, Chairman of the HTS Board of Trustees. Pictured above are the newly installed officers along with out-going officers and the HTS Director of Alumni Engagement. (left to right) Rod Ingram, out-going Treasurer; William M. Jordan III, Parliamentarian; Wardell Henderson, Chaplain; Juston R. Smith, Treasurer; Tamica Robinson, Assistant Secretary; Carmen Wilder, HTS Director of Alumni Engagement; Margaret L. Blackmon, Vice President; Tony Henderson, President; Mechelle Myers, out-going Vice President; Grant Harrison, out-going President. Not pictured, Carolyn Bratton, Secretary. We are deeply grateful to out- going officers Dr. Harrison, Rev. Ingram, and Rev. Myers for their service to the HTSAA over the past 5 years.

20 Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 Alumni News

Timothy Holmes, M.Div. 1998, visited campus recently to Nine Hood alumni were commissioned as provisional members of the WNCC of the UMC this donate a copy of his new book, “The More Excellent Way,” June at the Annual Conference at Lake Junaluska. (l to r) Tracy Fulbright Love, Adam Love, to the library. He is shown here with Carmen Wilder, Jesse Smith, Juston Smith, Daniel Wilson, Donna Southard Friddle, Roy Miller, Walter Christian Director of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving. and Victor Wilfong at Lake Junaluska.

March 17-18, 2016 All Hood Alumni Reunion The Albert J. D. Aymer Center | Hood Theological Seminary Symposium and Celebration Keynote Speaker: Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II, Pastor Theme: Greenleaf Christian Church The Pulse of 21st Century Ministry: (Disciples of Christ), Goldsboro, NC Integrity, Innovation, and Inclusiveness President, N. C. State Conference of the N.A.A.C.P.

Continued from page 19 our exchanges and the task force discerned racial Internship Focus: reconciliation, particularly between African American and The Racial Reconciliation Divinity School Internship is Anglo Christians and churches, needed to be the focus of our designed to foster the conversation regarding racial work. To that end, the task force was renamed the Racial diversity at the local Divinity Schools of North Reconciliation Ministry Team. Carolina. The intern will serve as a liaison between the The Racial Reconciliation Ministry Team believes there CBF-NC Racial Reconciliation Ministry Team and the is a difference between increasing the racial diversity of the Divinity School to raise awareness of racial reconciliation Fellowship and building community with Christians from initiatives and issues. In addition, the intern will plan and other racial groups. Increasing the racial diversity of the lead related program and activities at the local Divinity Fellowship could be achieved by recruiting churches of School, to empower Divinity school students to work different racial backgrounds. However, in order to build towards racial reconciliation on their campuses, and authentic relationships of trust that lead to reconciliation advocate for racial reconciliation in students communities within the body of Christ, we must understand that which and churches. led us to be segregated, recognize what it means to be segregated, and discover why it is important that we engage Forward Focus: one another. My initial meeting was on 11/9/15 with the Racial Therefore, education, conversation, and relationships Reconciliation Team. I will be working with Dr. Ken Walden are the foundation for any meaningful future in regards to and Dr. Dora Mbuwayesango to plan conversations for the increasing the Fellowship’s racial diversity. spring term in 2016.

Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 21 Hood Theological Seminary Offers Doctor of Ministry Degree with Concentration in Pastoral Theology and Care A Doctor of Ministry Degree with Concentration in pastoral counseling, and pastoral care. For this reason, Pastoral Theology and Care is now offered at Hood and is theological education at Hood Seminary assists the designed to equip ministers with a deeper level of skill for development and cultivation of those specialized skills for assisting their church and community through pastoral meaningful expression of beliefs with the Christian church.” care. “Hood Theological Seminary understands that Dr. Jim R. Wadford, Director of the Doctor of Ministry effective ministry in the church and the world requires the Program, said “The Doctor of Ministry Program is mastery and utilization of specialized skills,” said President expanding to assist its students in personal development, Lattimore. These skills include competence in the professional growth, and to ready them for church and preparation and conduct of worship and preaching; the community ministry.” Interested pastors and laypersons ability to communicate effectively in teaching, preaching, may contact the Deans’ office (704-636-6962) or the and evangelism; productive approaches to mission and Admissions Director, Angela Davis-Baxter (704-636-6023) outreach; creative relationship to people of all races, ages, for additional information, or visit gender, and social class; and proficiency in administration, www.hoodseminary.edu.

Commencement 2015

Continued from page 9

Dr. Trevor Eppehimer, Academic Dean, Margaret H. Kluttz, Bishop Teresa Elaine Snorton Sara and Bob Cook

Bishop William Phillips DeVeaux (center) Bishop Mildred “Bonnie” Hines

22 Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 Commencement 2015

2015 Master of Divinity and Master of Theological Studies Graduates and Faculty

2015 Doctor of Ministry Graduates and Faculty

In Memoriam

Rev. Richard James Harris, ’58 Rev. Dr. Cynthia W. Stewart, M.Div. ’83 January 9, 2015, Wilkesboro, NC June 8, 2015, Uniondale, NY

Mrs. Pamela Undra Hauser Rhodes Mr. Fred Evans, President’s Advisory Council Wife of Rev. Dr. Lenton D. Rhodes, M.Div. ’04, D.Min. ’11 June 17, 2015, Salisbury, NC January 18, 2015 Rev. Frank W. Davis, Jr., M.Div. ’73 Rev. Kelly B. Ottinger, M.Div. ’15 (posthumously) July 15, 2015 January 22, 2015, Rockwell, NC Mr. Larry Peeler, Friend of the Seminary Rev. Mark Eugene Jordan, M.Div. ’09 July 15, 2015, Salisbury, NC February 21, 2015, Asheboro, NC Former MTS student Mrs. Lois Pruehsner Rev. Deborah Dubois, Former member President’s Advisory Council March 7, 2015, Charlotte, NC July 28, 2015, Salisbury, NC Ms. Marie P. Tann, President’s Advisory Council March 13, 2015, Concord, NC Mr. James Davis Step-father of Rev. Rodvegas Ingram, ‘05 Rev. Gary Bruce Foster, M.Div. ’04 August 5, 2015, Albemarle, NC May 29, 2015, Lexington, NC Rev. Ronald Shoaf, M.Div. ’08 Mr. Dorsia Alexander Atkinson October 15, 2015, Greensboro, NC Husband of Rev. Ruth Bass Atkinson, Hood alumna May 29, 2015, Landis, NC Rev. Dr. Lillie M. Jones, M.Div. ’03 October 27, 2015, High Point, NC Mrs. Mayfred Hughes Nall Wife of Rev. Dr. Roe Nall, Jr. of the President’s Advisory Council Fred Jargbeh Tuopaeh, Former student May 31, 2015, Lithonia, GA November 9, 2015

Hood’s Herald Winter 2015-16 23 Hood Theological Seminary NON-PROFIT 1810 Lutheran Synod Drive ORGANIZATION US POSTAGE Salisbury, NC 28144 PAID 704-636-7611 CHARLOTTE, NC www.hoodseminary.edu PERMIT #3307

e Upcoming Events f January March 6 SGA Coffee & Conversation Women’s History Month Celebration 15 Orientation and registration for new students 11-12 SGA to visit Alabama Campus 26 First day of classes – Track I 17-18 All-Hood Alumni Symposium 29 First day of classes – Track II 19 D.Min. Service of Candidacy February April Black History Month Celebration Election of SGA Officers 2016-17 10 Appreciation Breakfast for Faculty & Staff Endowment Convocation May 10 Milestone Luncheon for 10th and 25th Bishop White Endowed Heritage 20 12-13 Milestone Graduates Lecture Series 20 Honors Awards and Closing Convocation 21 Commencement

Theological Preparation for Effective Ministry in a Diverse Society Get Ready to Take Your Ministry to the Next Level

Hood Theological Seminary is committed to providing our students the highest quality seminary experience possible and takes pride in its gender, racial and denominational diversity. Hood offers a unique choice for your ministerial formation and spiritual growth. Our Master of Divinity, Master of Theological Studies and Doctor of Ministry degree programs are accredited by the Association of Theological Schools in the U.S. and Canada. Two tracks of classes provide options for flexible, individualized programs of study. Our world-class faculty, comprised of graduates of premier theological schools across the country, is firmly rooted in the Wesleyan Christian tradition. Take your mind, ministry and mission to the next level! Call Admissions at 704-636-6023 or email [email protected] or click on: http://www.hoodseminary.edu/admissions.cfm For more information, visit our website www.hoodseminary.edu

Is the HOOD Lines newsletter in your email inbox? This monthly digital publication will keep you up-to-date on the latest news, events, programs and people at HTS. If you would like to receive HOOD Lines, please Update Your Information on our website ( www.hoodseminary.edu ) under the Alumni & Friends tab or email [email protected] . Stayed Tuned for our New Website Launch in January!