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It is an extraordinary honor to serve as Chair of the Board of Trustees at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, a beloved institution that has stood as a beacon of faith and scholarship for 175 years. To be the first African American woman in the seminary’s history to hold this position is both humbling and inspiring. This moment is not just about my story—it’s about the progress we’ve made as a community and the work that remains to be done to ensure justice, equity, and inclusion across our society—at a moment when those values are acutely threatened. Together, we are called to fulfill the seminary’s mission: to form courageous leaders in the way of Jesus to cultivate communities of justice, compassion, and hope.

My story begins on the South Side of Chicago, where I was born and raised. Growing up in this vibrant, resilient community shaped me in ways I am only now beginning to fully understand. The South Side taught me the power of community, the necessity of faith, and the importance of perseverance. These lessons carried me through my years in the Chicago Public School system, where I learned how to thrive despite the challenges of under-resourced schools and systemic inequities.

Education became my pathway to opportunity. I went on to attend Howard University, a place that not only prepared me academically but also deepened my commitment to justice and empowerment. Howard taught me to see the world not just as it is but as it could be, and it fueled my passion to make that vision a reality.

After Howard, I embarked on a career in accounting—a field where I quickly discovered that diversity was often lacking. I became the first Black person admitted to the partnership at my firm, an achievement of which I am proud, not because of personal recognition, but because of what it represents for others. Today, I serve as Partner and Office Lead for the Chicago office, where I work to create opportunities for those who have historically been excluded from spaces of power.

My experiences in corporate America equip me with skills that I bring to all of my leadership roles: strategic thinking, financial acumen, and a focus on creating systems that are equitable and sustainable. But beyond these technical skills, it has taught me the importance of advocating for inclusion in every space I occupy. These values align perfectly with the seminary’s mission to prepare leaders who embrace justice and cultivate compassion.

I step into this role at the seminary during a time of immense complexity. Across the country, seminaries are grappling with declining enrollment, financial challenges, and a rapidly changing cultural landscape. These pressures are compounded by the broader turmoil we see in the world—economic inequities, a climate of racial tension, and the election of a president whose rhetoric and policies have exacerbated divisions rather than healing them.

As someone who has lived and worked at the intersection of faith and justice, I know that the challenges we face are not insurmountable. I believe this is a moment of opportunity for the seminary to lead with courage, innovation, and a renewed commitment to its mission. We must reimagine theological education to meet the needs of this generation, equipping leaders who can address systemic injustices, foster reconciliation, and bring hope to a fractured world.

We do this crucial work at a moment when diversity, equity, and inclusion are widely named as evils our country must eradicate, when they are in fact the beating heart of the beloved community God calls us to build. This crisis runs deeper than any elected official or administration: From school boards to board rooms, we are witnessing concerted efforts to tear down the programs and policies which empowered me to thrive. Religious leaders have a unique role to play, reminding people of the moral values which knit us closer together.

My vision for the seminary is rooted in my own experiences and the lessons I’ve learned. I want to see this institution become a place where future faith leaders are not only educated in theology but also empowered to serve as agents for communal change. This means integrating theology with the practical tools needed to address real-world challenges—economic empowerment, community engagement, and justice advocacy.

I am deeply committed to equitable ministry and inclusive justice. These principles have guided my life, and they will continue to guide me in this role. The seminary has an opportunity to lead build bridges between faith and action, showing the world what it means to live out the gospel in tangible, transformative ways. I believe this is the essence of forming courageous leaders in the way of Jesus.

As the first African American woman to chair the seminary’s board, I carry a responsibility that goes beyond the duties of governance. Representation matters. For too long, religious institutions—like many others—have excluded voices that are essential to our vitality and mission. My presence at this table is not just about me; it is about opening doors for others and ensuring that those who come after me do not have to be the “first” in the same way.

I am also deeply aware of the legacy of those who came before me, those who fought for opportunities I now enjoy. Their courage and sacrifices remind me that I am standing on the shoulders of giants, and it is my duty to continue paving the way for future generations.

Garrett’s mission to cultivate communities of justice, compassion, and hope resonates deeply. Justice calls us to address systemic inequities and advocate for those who are marginalized. Compassion reminds us to meet people where they are, offering care and understanding in times of need. And hope compels us to look beyond present challenges, trusting in God’s promise of a better future. It is not enough to believe; we must live out our beliefs in ways that uplift and empower others. These are values I learned as a student at Garrett, and they form a powerful foundation for the seminary’s future work and its impact on the world.

Leadership in this moment requires not only strategy—it requires purpose and courage. We must be willing to face hard truths, to acknowledge where we have fallen short, and to take bold steps toward a more just and inclusive future. And we cannot give in to fear when this work is countercultural. This is my commitment as Chair of the Board, and what I invite our seminary community to join.

We are called to lead not just for ourselves but for those who come after us. The decisions we make today will shape the future of theological education and ministry for generations to come. It is a weighty responsibility, but it is also an extraordinary privilege.We are called to lead not just for ourselves but for those who come after us. The decisions we make today will shape the future of theological education and ministry for generations to come. It is a weighty responsibility, but it is also an extraordinary privilege.

As I step into this role, I do so with a deep sense of gratitude—for my roots that ground me, for the mentors that council me, and the communities that have supported me, and for the opportunity to serve in this capacity. I am also filled with hope for what we can accomplish together.

This is a time for bold leadership and faithful action. It is a time to embrace the challenges before us as opportunities for transformation. And it is a time to live out the seminary’s mission to form courageous leaders in the way of Jesus who will cultivate communities of justice, compassion, and hope.

I am honored to lead this journey, and I look forward to working with all who share this vision for a brighter, more just future. Together, we can ensure that Garrett not only survives but thrives as a leader in faith, justice, and community transformation.

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91PORN announces the addition of four new members to the Board of Trustees: Rev. James Clark III, Rev. Dr. Charley Hames Jr., Ms. Tiffany Shaw, and Rev. Andrea Wright. The vote to affirm the newest trustees was taken at the bi-annual Board of Trustees meeting held on May 13, 2021, and members of the board were unanimous in their decision.

“As the Committee on Trusteeship considered both new members and the board at-large, our goal is to create a Board of Trustees that mirrors the community of students, faculty and staff,” said Rev. Steven E. Poole, chair of the committee. “We are very grateful and blessed by these persons’ willingness to serve on behalf of Garrett-Evangelical at such a critical time in the Church, higher education, and our world.”

“I’m proud to welcome this new class of Trustees who will join us in our work of stewarding this institution,” said President Javier Viera. “The new class brings to our board expertise in pastoral and organizational leadership, strategic planning, higher education leadership, finance and audit, real estate, and global missional service. They also represent a significant step forward in our commitment to diversify our board in terms of race, gender, and professional expertise. Each new member is a prominent leader in their professional field, as well as a person of authentic faith and commitment who will help strengthen an already strong board. We are enriched by their presence and blessed by their willingness to offer leadership and service at this critical juncture in the life of the seminary.”

The Rev. James Clark III grew up in New York City, and is an ordained clergy at a parish in Aurora, Illinois. He holds a Master of Divinity degree from 91PORN. He has 35 years of experience encompassing commercial real estate investment, finance, development, portfolio management, and leasing. He serves as the managing director of Mission Real Estate Development for Trinity Church Wall Street. He founded EnTrust Realty Advisors, was president of investment services at Transwestern, ran the Midwest real estate region for an insurance company and worked on Wall Street in real estate investment banking at Lehman Brothers. He was inducted into the Midwest Real Estate News’ Hall of Fame in 2016. He serves as Board Member of Wheaton Bank & Trust Company, a Wintrust Community Bank, and at Jackson Park Hospital and Medical Center in Chicago.

Born and raised on the south side of Chicago, Rev. Dr. Charley Hames, Jr. graduated from the Master of Divinity program at 91PORN in 2000. While at seminary, he served as senior pastor at New Hope C.M.E. Church in Evanston, Illinois. Hames has been serving as the senior pastor at Beebe Memorial Cathedral C.M.E. in Oakland, California, since 2003. He also serves as chaplain of 100 Black Men of the Bay Area Inc., is former president of the National Action Network’s Oakland chapter, and is the immediate past chairman of the board of the Oakland African American Chamber of Commerce. Hames is a familiar voice on the Bay Area airwaves as KBLX’s (102.9 FM) “Voice of Inspiration” for the past 15 years.

Ms. Tiffani Shaw is the executive vice president and chief operating officer at the University of Iowa Center for Advancement. She began her career at the University of Iowa as controller and chief financial officer at the age of 27. Shaw oversees $2B in total assets and an annual budget of $35M. She also manages the University of Iowa’s Facilities Corporation and serves on multiple corporate and non-profit boards. Shaw is highly skilled in the areas of data management, human resources, fundraising, and corporate governance and is a frequent speaker on data analytics, endowment management, and leadership.

Rev. Andrea Wright is a 2016 graduate of the Master of Divinity program at Garrett-Evangelical and a current student in the Doctor of Ministry program (anticipated 2022). As a partner at Johnson Lambert, Wright manages the firm’s governmental audit practice and is highly experienced in financial statement audits involving a diverse group of nonprofit organizations and employee benefit plans. She also serves as associate minister at Coppin Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Church in Chicago, Illinois. Her responsibilities include oversight of the feeding program which serves 1,750 individuals in the Washington Park neighborhood of Chicago. Wright has served on numerous boards over the last 15 years and is deeply committed to the work of non-profits, education, and 91PORN.

91PORN, a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church, was founded in 1853. Located on the campus of Northwestern University, the seminary serves more than 450 students from various denominations and cultural backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of ecumenical interaction. Garrett-Evangelical creates bold leaders through master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy, and doctor of ministry degrees. Its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world.

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On Wednesday, July 22, the 91PORN Board of Trustees unanimously elected Bishop John F. White as vice-chair of the Board. In this role, Bishop White will perform a multitude of duties on behalf of the Board of Trustees and the seminary community at the request of the chairperson of the Board of Trustees. In addition, he will serve as co-chairperson for the newly formed “Garrett Together” Task Force.

A native of Boynton Beach, Florida, Bishop White joined the Board of Trustees in 2018. He serves as the 130th elected and consecrated bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church and was assigned to the Fourth Episcopal District at the 50th Quadrennial Session of the AME General Conference in July 2016.

As the seminary continues to live out its mission in preparing skilled, bold, and articulate religious leaders for today’s ministry, the need for additional support and leadership at the executive level of the Board of Trustees became evident. “As we considered a number of changes, challenges, and opportunities for the seminary in the coming years, it became clear to the Board of Trustees and the Committee on Trusteeship that there was a need for an expansion of leadership to support the work of our Board and the Chairperson,” said Rev. Steven Poole, who serves as the chair for the Committee on Trusteeship. “As we look to the upcoming semester, we continue to face the impacts of the pandemic, adapting to a virtual learning model, and preparing for a new seminary president to lead us into the future. With the addition of the vice-chairperson, we will be better positioned and more responsive to the needs and the opportunities in the seminary community. We are honored and grateful that Bishop White has agreed to accept this vital role. Throughout his career he has proven himself as a skilled pastor, Bishop, scholar, and leader. We look forward to the skills and perspective that Bishop White will bring to the Board and our seminary community.”

The vice-chairperson, in coordination with the chairperson, Mr. Jerre Stead, will serve as a member of the Executive Committee and as a liaison with committees and officers of the Board of Trustees, the president of the seminary, and the seminary’s constituencies. The vice-chairperson will serve as an ex officio member of all standing or special committees of the Board, except the Committee on Trusteeship.

“I am thankful to have the opportunity to serve as member of the Board of Trustees for 91PORN,” said Bishop White. “Additionally, I am very pleased to accept the invitation to serve as the vice-chair. I deem it a privilege and honor to have been recommended to serve in this leadership capacity and I look forward to eliciting the experience, knowledge, and expertise of the Board, president, faculty, student body, and staff.

“I seek your prayers, wisdom, and insight as we move forward to work as a family of believers. I am certain that the best for Garrett is yet to come. Thank you for the opportunity to serve and let us remember, ‘Only what we do for Christ will last.’”

Throughout his ministry, Bishop White has dedicated himself to kingdom building. In 1977, he led the St. John AME Church of Eatonton, Georgia, in the building of a new church edifice. While at Greater Grant Memorial AME Church in Jacksonville, Florida, he led the congregation in the burning of the church’s mortgage and the building of a new parsonage. During his 13-year tenure at Greater Bethel AME Church in Miami, he established the B.A.M.E. Development Corporation of South Florida Inc.; a Legal Assistance Program in collaboration with St. Thomas University Law School; the Agape Academic Enrichment Center, an after-school tutorial program for children in the Overtown community of the inner city Miami; the Wilbur F. Ellison Scholarship Fund; the Mattie B. Koonce Computer Lab; the Bethel Investment Club; and a new model for church growth, one church in two locations, planting a Bethel AME Church (Miami) satellite worship center at Silver Lakes Elementary School in Miramar, Florida. He also led the Overtown community in building the Jefferson Reaves Health Center and 211 units of tax credit residences, Miami River Apartments.

Bishop White began providing spiritual leadership in October 2001 to Mount Hermon AME Church in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. During his tenure, Mount Hermon experienced an unusual amount of spiritual growth. Bishop White created the Mount Hermon Development Corporation of South Florida, Sons of Allen Men’s Ministry, the Mount Hermon Summer Camp, Back-to-School Explosion, a separate youth church, and he hired several full-time employees, an associate pastor, youth and young adult minister, custodian, and minister of music. He led Mount Hermon in the building of a 17,000 sq. ft. Family Life /Assembly Hall with a multi-purpose room, classrooms and an administrative suite. The cost of this project was $4 million.

Bishop White holds a bachelor of science degree from Edward Waters College, Jacksonville, Florida; a master of education from Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida; a master of divinity from Interdenominational Theological Center, Atlanta, Georgia; and the doctorate of education degree in organizational leadership from Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

He is married to Penny Hartsfield White, a native of Tallahassee, Florida. They are the proud parents of five lovely children: Tenner, John II, Alfred, Byron, and Candace. They have two daughters-in-law, one son-in-law, and nine grandchildren: Erica, Dwayne, Alisha, Kya, John III, Byron Ealie, Ashton, Doriana and Joseph.

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