As ETS begins a new academic year (AY), there is a spirit of enthusiasm and optimism that permeates Faculty, Staff, Board and Students. The following are a few key items of interest that contribute to this spirit of “New Beginnings.”
People
I am grateful to our Board Chair, Mrs. Monique Marks, president and CEO, Franklin Wright Settlements, for assuming my duties during my illness and recovery. Her service to the seminary in this role had a stabilizing and unifying impact on our work. Thank you, Chairperson Marks!
I continue to recover from my battle with the coronavirus and have officially returned to my duties as of August 3, 2020. I continue to thank our Lord for the prayers and support expressed and demonstrated by the ETS family and our circle of friends.
Dr. Genetta Hatcher resigned her position as V.P. Operations. We wish her well in her new pursuits. Dr. Denise Henderson also resigned her position recently. We also wish her and her family well. The duties of both persons has been assumed by two current
employees: Mrs. Barbara Pye (Registrar and Operations Manager) and Ms. Jacqueline Hines (Business Office Manager).
Our Fall Enrollment has exceeded last year’s numbers. We salute our team (Dean, Faculty and Staff) for working together to make this development a reality. The work has just begun.
Planning – Strategic Directions
The work of ETS is being guided by our new strategic plan (directions). The plan has been endorsed by our accrediting association (ATS), with recommendations for ongoing improvement. The Directions provide guidance in three critical areas: Sustainability, Education and Engagement (SEE). Our work has already benefited as the plan is implemented. We will stay the course as we move forward.
Programming
Until further notice, ETS will continue with all Online courses for the remainder of this calendar year. Updates for the Winter quarter 2021 will be announced as we continue to monitor the impact of the coronavirus here in Michigan. The safety and well-being of ETS people is our top priority.
Curriculum revisions have been implemented in some of our master’s level programs. Please contact ETS for more information.
ETS will provide more practical theology opportunities this year for clergy and laity. Workshops, panels, community forums and ETS/local church partnerships are planned to address current religious, political and social issues that affect our community. Stay tuned.
Partners
We are thankful for our partners and friends. You will receive periodic updates to advise how you can help support the mission and work of ETS.
Blessings,
The Rev. Dr. Kenneth E. Harris
President and Professor of Biblical Studies