The Trustees and Faculty of Christian Theological Seminary hosted a formal Commencement Ceremony to present Candidates for Degrees and graduate the 2024 Spring Class on Saturday, May 18, 2024.
Honorees
This year, CTS conferred honorary degrees to recognize Dr. Fernando F. Segovia and Rev. Dr. Joretta L. Marshall. The Presidential Award of Excellence was presented to Rev. Dr. Preston T. Adams, III.
Dr. Fernando F. Segovia received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters and provided the Commencement address. His scholarly achievements and commitment to mentorship have made a lasting impact on biblical studies and theological education. Through his pioneering work in postcolonial scholarship and global-systemic paradigms, Dr. Segovia has challenged conventional narratives and advocated for justice and equity. His groundbreaking research has shed light on the complexities of biblical interpretation, particularly in relation to colonial legacies and marginalized communities. Dr. Segovia’s dedication to embracing diversity and fostering inclusive environments has enriched the academic landscape, inspiring scholars from diverse backgrounds to engage in transformative scholarship. His vision for healing and wholeness extends beyond the classroom, reflecting a deep-seated commitment to addressing societal challenges and promoting positive change. He currently serves as the Oberlin Alumni Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity for the Divinity School at Vanderbilt University.
Reverend Dr. Joretta Marshall’s illustrious career as a scholar, theologian, and mentor epitomizes the values upheld by Christian Theological Seminary. With over three decades of dedication to advancing theological knowledge, Dr. Marshall’s research has profoundly influenced pastoral care, practical theology, and counseling. Throughout her tenure, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to affirming God-given human dignity and promoting healing, particularly in times of crisis, grief, and trauma. As a passionate advocate for social justice and equity, she has tirelessly worked to create inclusive spaces within academia and the broader community, championing the voices of marginalized individuals and communities. Dr. Marshall is Emerita Professor of Pastoral Theology, Care, and Counseling at Brite Divinity School. She will receive an honorary Doctor of Divinity and will provide the Baccalaureate Chapel sermon.
CTS is proud to honor alumnus Rev. Dr. Preston T. Adams, III (MDiv ’96, DMin ‘05) with the Presidential Award of Excellence. This award is presented to an alumnus or friend of the Seminary whose life and accomplishments have earned the respect of their industry, profession, or community.
Dr. Adams is the founding and senior pastor of Amazing Grace Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Indianapolis. He is an Emeriti Trustee of Christian Theological Seminary and is well known for his work in the community with marginalized populations, particularly youth. A mentor to mentors, Dr. Adams founded the “High-5 Movement”, a city-wide initiative that positively impacted thousands of elementary, middle, and high-school students in over 45 Marion County schools from 2016-2019. Most recently, Dr. Adams founded the Men and Mental Health Movement, a collaboration between his church and 15 other organizations to include 10 additional churches and ministries in the Indianapolis community. The Men and Mental Health Movement provides free therapeutic approaches and scalable solutions to men dealing with a diverse array of mental health issues who gather monthly at various church locations. Since its inception in 2023 the movement has served an average of 50-60 men monthly. He also holds a BS in Business Administration/Computer Science from Central State University in Ohio.