Financial Information for Decision-Making in Majority World Seminaries

Introduction During the COVID-19 pandemic, a seminary in Brazil decided to offer online courses, just like many other seminaries in the Majority World They made the decision quickly because of the need to continue to offer classes during lockdown Unusually, the school did not have a preexisting..... read more

Principles and Practices for Fundraising by Majority World Seminaries

Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every source of seminary income Many seminaries have seen tuition income decline precipitously (Even before the pandemic, tuition on average only met between a third and half of a school’s financial needs (Smith 2015)) Other sources of income..... read more

A Basic Checklist: Planning for the Coming Term

Educational Model for the Next Semester (or Two) Notes: For US colleges this fall, Inside Higher Education has described 15 possibilities for reopening – three main categories with variations (eg, delayed starts, hybrid approaches, etc) Resume normal teaching on campus (with enhanced..... read more

Further Questions Concerning the Pandemic’s Financial Impact

The following questions can help school leaders analyze issues related to finances as they meet with their management teams, Board, and donors  Communication During the crisis, how have you communicated with your senior leadership team, faculty, staff, and Board about the school’s..... read more

Links for Further Reading

Spring/Summer 2020 Situation “Responding to the COVID-19 Crisis: Moving from Desperation to Hope in Theological Education” outlines the current state of theological education in the midst of the crisis, with special attention to schools located in the Majority World It also points to..... read more

In Pursuit of Sustainability: Strategy & Planning for Theological Education

Philip Melanchthon, the essential yin to Martin Luther’s yang, led reformation of Lutheran education The times demanded new educational materials and forms, and consumed much of his attention from his inaugural lecture at Wittenberg in August 1518 until his death in April 1560 Melanchthon’s..... read more

On the Shoulders of Giants: Traditioned Innovation and Leading Change

Leaders of theological schools in the Majority World stand on a rich heritage The growth of theological education has followed the growth of the church, albeit more slowly In most places, schools have benefi tted from the investment of missionaries and the legacy of Western higher education..... read more

Theological Education in Africa: Business or Mission?

Abstract: Financial viability remains one of the greatest challenges facing schools of theology To succeed, schools in Africa need to better understand the business of theological education in order to better accomplish their mission To do so, schools must better understand the true costs of..... read more

Sustaining What Matters in Theological Education

Abstract: A multifaceted understanding of sustainability is critical as Majority World theological schools face significant changes and pressures Institutional sustainability entails three essential components: a viable business plan, the ability to adapt meaningfully to evolving contexts, and the..... read more

InResponse: Five Loaves and Two Fish: A Response to Olive Oil, Theological Education, and Economics

One day, the disciples found themselves in a situation that would be a nightmare for any president of a theological institution They were challenged to provide food for thousands of hungry students! The disciples were troubled, knowing that vast resources would be required However, Jesus urged..... read more