Why This Blog?

Why is there a need for a blog about nurturing the next generation of scholars?

Andrea Smith, Assistant Professor of Media and Cultural Studies at the University of California Riverside, states it plainly…

“Academia claims itself a meritocracy – those who are the “smartest” or the “best scholars” will do well. According to this logic, if you are not doing well in academia, it must be because you are not smart or a good scholar – a message students from racial/ethnic minorities can expect to hear often in their graduate career. In actuality, however, academia is a game. If you learn the rules of the game, then you can be successful.

- Excerpt from the AAR Career Guide for Racial Ethnic Minorities in the Profession This site seeks to address the specific needs of students of color who are considering pursuing a Ph.D. or Th.D. in religion, bible, or theology. With this site we hope to provide a resource that demystifies the graduate application process and helps students learn the “rules of the game.” The blog roll, Perspectives, addresses various issues related to advanced graduate studies. There is also a section that includes up to date information on workshops and conferences designed to encourage students of color to pursue doctoral studies in religion, bible, and theology. Here you’ll find technical information on preparing applications for admission. You’ll hear testimonies of graduate students and distinguished scholars who have preceded you on the journey to the Ph.D. You’ll find basic information on the process of completing the Ph.D. as well as helpful tips from students and faculty. If there are other topics of interest that you would like us to address, please contact us at doctoralinfo@thefund.org.

^{Profs. Nyasha Junior, Howard Divinity School and Joseph Scrivner,
Samford University at their graduation from the Ph.D. program in bible at Princeton Theological Seminary (2008)}

About The Fund for Theological Education (FTE)
FTE is a leading ecumenical advocate for excellence and diversity in Christian ministry and theological scholarship. Our work supports the next generation of leaders among pastors and scholars. We provide fellowships and a network of support to gifted young people from all denominations and racial/ethnic backgrounds—encouraging those with gifts for leadership to consider vocations in ministry and teaching and nurturing them in their exploration and study. FTE supports outstanding students pursuing graduate degrees in religion and theology. This work is designed to address the significant shortage of scholars from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups in faculty teaching and research positions. Diversity is crucial to the vitality of the academy and the Christian church. A strong presence of racial and ethnic faculty in the nation's theological schools in particular is needed to serve today's diverse student body, to attract and inspire outstanding candidates for ministry, and to contribute to broad, deep and inclusive teaching and research. You can learn more about FTE by visiting our website: http://www.thefund.org

Take a look at FTE's investment in the Next Generation since 1999!