THE MAGAZINE

What's the future? And is it all artificial?

Rev. Dr. Anna Robbins, president of Acadia Divinity College, discusses the profound impact of artificial intelligence on theological education. She emphasizes that AI’s emergence is a transformative event comparable to the invention of the printing press, necessitating thoughtful engagement from theological institutions. Robbins advocates for a balanced approach, cautioning against alarmist reactions and dismissive attitudes, and encourages embracing AI's potential while critically examining its ethical and theological implications. Read the article here.

What do you think? Email us here with your thoughts.

Also, in the Spring 2025 issue of In Trust:

• A Heart to Break Through: The TENx10 Collaboration, an initiative aimed at strengthening the faith of 10 million young people over the next decade, was launched in response to a 2018 Pinetops Foundation study revealing that one million youths aged 13 to 18, particularly from communities of color, leave U.S. churches annually. The Fuller Youth Institute (FYI) at Fuller Theological Seminary partnered with Pinetops to address this challenge, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the voices and needs of these young individuals. The collaboration officially began on Oct. 10, 2023, in Chicago, and by December 2024, FYI had secured a $10 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc.'s Faith and Service Initiative to support the project. Read the article here.
• Smarter Questions: In her “On My Mind” column, Amy Kardash, president of the In Trust Center for Theological Schools, emphasizes the critical role of asking smarter questions in leadership and decision-making. She highlights three key takeaways from the Harvard Business Review article, “The Art of Asking Smarter Questions,” and notes that by intentionally broadening the scope and style of questions, leaders can foster deeper understanding and more effective decision-making.​ Read the full editorial here.
• Did you get your magazine?: If you've moved or don't receive In Trust magazine (a magazine subscription comes with your membership to the In Trust Center for Theological Schools), you can update your information or ask to be placed on the magazine list by emailing us.

Full issue: You can read the magazine on the In Trust Center website.

PODCAST

Rethinking Ministry Formation: Diaconal Studies and the Future of Theological Education

In Episode 90 of the In Trust Center Good Governance podcast, Darryl Stephens, Ph.D., discusses the significance of diaconal studies in contemporary ministry formation. Stephens emphasizes preparing deacons for roles beyond traditional preaching, focusing on community engagement and service. Drawing from global models and his open-access book, Diaconal Studies: Lived Theology for the Church in North America, he encourages theological schools to broaden their missions and equip leaders for the diverse needs of today’s church. He also references his earlier work, Bivocational and Beyond, highlighting the importance of training for multivocational ministry. Listen to Episode 90, Rethinking Ministry Formation: Diaconal Studies and the Future of Theological Education here.

Other recent episodes include:

• Rooted and Ready: Strengthening Theological Schools Amid Regulatory Upheaval: If you’re navigating leadership in a faith-based institution, this podcast is essential listening. In the latest episode of the Good Governance podcast, governance expert the Rev. David Rowe, Ph.D., and higher education policy expert Professor Peter Lake unpack what theological school leaders need to know about potential changes to federal education policy – from Title IV and Title IX to accreditation and beyond. They share practical insights for presidents and boards, emphasizing mission alignment, shared governance, and measured, authentic leadership. Listen to Episode 89, Rooted and Ready: Strengthening Theological Schools Amid Regulatory Upheaval here.
• As theological schools navigate the future, collaboration and shared services are becoming essential. Thanks to a Lilly Endowment Inc.'s Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative grant, AdminWise Shared Services is stepping in to provide much-needed administrative support. On this podcast, Jeff Williams, Ph.D., president of AdminWise and director of the grant program at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, shares how this initiative provides strategic direction and expertise – allowing schools to strengthen their mission while streamlining operations. He notes that by working together, schools can share resources, lighten administrative burdens, and sustain their impact. Listen to Episode 88, A Shared Future: Rethinking Seminary Administration here.
• What does it take to move an institution forward? Auburn Seminary is relaunching Auburn Studies, beginning with a valuable report on executive leadership and the burden leaders face. In this episode, the Rev. Patrick Reyes, Ph.D., dean of Auburn Seminary, shares key trends in the field, and study author, the Very Rev. Michael DeLashmutt, Ph.D., of General Theological Seminary, explains what his research uncovered and how schools can move forward. Listen to Episode 87 here.

WEBINAR

Partnerships that Improve Institutional Sustainability and Quality

Lisa Parker, partner, and Ryan Spraker, senior attorney in the education practice group at Husch Blackwell – a national law firm specializing in higher education – examine key considerations for institutions exploring strategic partnerships. They focus on current trends in the sector, describe common partnership models, and outline 10 critical factors for success. Featuring real-world case studies and expert insights, the session provides practical guidance for forming sustainable, resilient partnerships – whether you’re in the early stages of collaboration or navigating the complexities of a merger.

Watch the webinar here.

INVESTING IN INNOVATION

Matching Funds for Innovative Projects

The In Trust Center offers Resource Grants of up to $15,000 to support eligible members in pursuing innovative solutions or opportunities within their institutions. Through this program, schools can engage external resources to advance their mission. The grant cycle opens March 3, 2025. You can learn more on the Resource Grants webpage here.

Announcing the 2025 Reflective Leadership Grants

Leadership Education at Duke Divinity School is now accepting applications for its 2025 Reflective Leadership Grant, designed to provide Christian leaders with essential “balcony time” for structured reflection. These grants, up to $15,000, support leaders in stepping back to assess their work, broaden perspectives, and discern next steps in their ministry and organizational leadership.

Ideal for lay and clergy leaders across Christian organizations – including congregations, denominations, seminaries, nonprofits, and social enterprises – this grant helps leaders navigate complex challenges and opportunities. The application deadline is May 2, 2025. Learn more and sign up for a Q&A session here.

PATHWAYS INITIATIVE

Lilly Endowment Inc. offers new funding