| February 2026 The newsletter for chairs of theological school boards, Vol. 4, No. 6 |
Why your school’s value proposition matters
Learning to restate the importance of a theological education is vital.
What is the value of theological education? That may seem like a pretty obvious question, but it’s one that in today’s world demands an answer. What once was obvious isn’t so obvious anymore. The culture has changed, as has higher education, meaning there’s a need to state a positive reason why this work matters. The fact is that people may not naturally see the positive impact that theological schools and their alumni have in the world.
Often, we can take for granted how we think people see us, and our core audiences – including alumni, denominations, and churches – don’t always clearly see the need for theological higher education.
In a piece in the Winter edition of In Trust magazine, my colleague Matt Hufman and the Rev. Dr. David Rowe, a former president, discuss the pressures in the field and how schools can respond in positive ways. The key is taking the time to consider the institution’s mission and how the school can enunciate a compelling value proposition. You can read more about the piece here.
I’d encourage you and your board to read this piece and have a conversation about what the value of your mission is and how you might articulate it in a changing world.
If you would like support in that conversation, our Resource Consulting team is ready to help. Reach out here.
I’d also invite you to consider two other ways to clarify your value, which is connected to your board work:
Wise Stewards Initiative: Applications are being accepted for the initiative, which is a year-long cohort that provides a structured way to consider your board’s work. You can find out more here.
Board Development Grants: Applications close soon for the next round of Board Development Grants. The grants provide a way for boards to grow together. You can find out more here.
Thanks for all you do in theological education.
Amy Kardash
President
