The In Trust Center offers a variety of initiatives to its members including:

Governance Initiative: The In Trust Center was awarded a multi-year grant by Lilly Endowment Inc. to expand resources for both governing and advisory boards, including online resources, articles, webinars, learning community space, board leadership support, as well as wise practices and principles of good governance to shape a sustainable governance model in theological education. In partnership with the Association of Theological Schools (ATS), we are launching a research project to survey board members and executive leaders of ATS-accredited schools in spring 2024 to gather data on current board demographics and practices. After the initial phase of research, programmatic offerings will be developed and available to our members. To read more about the initiative, click here.

Pathways for Tomorrow: The In Trust Center was awarded a grant from the Lilly Endowment Inc. to fund coordination work with ATS. As a co-coordinator in this initiative, the In Trust Center is supporting the resource needs of grantees by providing Resource Consulting and learning community space, and highlighting the stories of grantees in its publications and communications. Click here to read more about the work that we are doing to support grantees over the next several years. 

Resource Grants: Through generous funding from the Lilly Endowment Inc., the In Trust Center offers $15,000 matching grants to help members experiment and engage in new work at their institutions. We embrace a wide variety of projects, such as marketing and recruitment, board development, strategic planning, course development, exploring new educational models, and collaborative work. Click here for more details about our current funding cycle and eligible projects. 

Wise Stewards Initiative: Wise Stewards is a one-year program focused on the growth, development, and sustainability of theological school boards partially supported by the M. J. Murdock Charitable Trust. Through a cohort model, participating schools receive individualized consultation and coaching; board assessment and education; and peer learning opportunities. After the cohort year, schools will join a growing community of alumni to stay connected with peers and receive ongoing resources and support to continue their board’s development. To read more about the Wise Stewards Initiative, or to apply, click here.