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Accredited by the Association of Theological Schools ten years ago in 2016, the CTS School of Theology’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric celebrated its first ever graduates at Commencement in May 2024. The program’s first four graduates recently reflected on that milestone, and the common theme of what got them to the program is not what got them through.  

First cohort members Nicole McDonald, Justin West, Jennifer Carner, and Eugene Gibson, part of the self-named Jubilee 50 cohort, participated in graduation ceremonies in 2024. The program remains the world’s first academic opportunity of its kind where practitioner-scholars research, develop, and expose the untold treasures of the unique and indigenous American art form of African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric.  

The four agreed that they were drawn to the program not only by its uniqueness but by the chance to study under Dr. Frank Thomas, the visionary founder of the program. Thomas transitioned from Program Director of the degree program to the Director role with the Compelling Preaching Initiative in 2023 and fully retired in December 2025. “I continue to hold fast to the vision articulated by Dr. Frank A. Thomas—that African American preaching has the power to invoke a Christian renaissance in the world,” Carner said.  

“Because of him, I fell in love with the art, science, and tradition of African American preaching,” said Gibson.” Both McDonald and West agreed that being able to learn from Thomas was too good of an opportunity to miss.  

Thomas was well known for this vision of connecting preaching and academics with critical awareness of history, theology, and the sacred rhetoric and traditions of African Americanism. His vision was the driving force of the PhD program which appeals to candidates from the pulpit and the university classroom.  

“At the time, I could not have imagined that this decision would lead me into a community of some of the most gifted preachers, scholars, and generous colleagues I have ever encountered,” Carner said.  

While these three students agreed that it was the potential of working with Thomas that preceded their applications, it was the cohort model, sharing the experience with like students, that helped them survive the rigorous program.   

“One of my best memories of the program is the journey with my brilliant and supportive cohort,” West said. “The bonding that took place and the relationships that were established were profoundly impactful.”  

McDonald agreed, describing the cohort as a “blessing and life-giving.” She specifically recalled fellowship dinners and friendly academic arguments as some of the most formative activities of the PhD experience.  

“We prayed for one another, supported one another, and made decisions not in isolation, but in shared responsibility” said Carner. “That experience embodied for me what practical theology looks like when it is lived, not just studied.” 

“The wisdom and brilliance of my cohort continue to have a profound influence in my life; journeying with them made me a better scholar, preacher, and person,” added West. Members of the original cohort have remained close, even collaborating on projects and publications.  

The program was intentionally designed around this cohort model. Students complete their studies in a small group with an initial focus on course work followed by comprehensive exams and culminating with a written dissertation. The PhD program starts a new cohort every three years. These small groups are meant to be supportive and not competitive, encouraging each participant to maximize their best efforts and abilities.  

Another experience that these students shared was the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on academics. Carner wonders how significant the pandemic’s impact was on their experience. “COVID inevitably limited our time together in physical space. While our cohort cultivated a strong and genuine bond through virtual engagement, I do wonder how our relationships—and even our collaborative scholarship—might have developed with more sustained in-person interaction.”  

While there may have been some fine-tuning suggestions that the first year PhD students made about the exam and dissertation process, all agreed that it was a fulfilling, rigorous, and life-changing opportunity.  

“In many ways, the choice became both an academic and vocational turning point—one that deepened my commitment to preaching as a sacred, communal, and transformative practice,” Carner said.  

Gibson wants potential students to know that this is not just “an elevated program you take just to get a Dr. in front of your name. If you give yourself to this process, you will not leave the same way you came. You will be a scholar-practioner.”  

All four graduates emphasized that the impact the program had on their writing before finishing has continued; in fact, West would encourage incoming students to “write with your dissertation in mind and write to publish.”  

Carner encourages incoming students to “Trust your gift and trust the process. As you immerse yourself in the literature, engage critical conversations, and remain attentive to your own intellectual and spiritual curiosities, your research trajectory will begin to take shape.” 

West added that some aspects of his dissertation on Howard Thurman have been submitted for publication. McDonald has a book coming out in 2026 from The Pilgram Press as well as chapters in books being published. Gibson also has used his skill in co-editing book volumes and has his first journal article coming out this year. Carner, too, is under contract for publication.  

McDonald and Gibson both highlighted the PhD program’s emphasis on communication and the Scholarship Matrix (learning the field, critiquing the field, and contributing to the field) as practical resources that have helped them in the “real” world. Both tools have helped spark creativity and high-quality work.  

Carner added, “This program gave me the language to articulate the vibrancy and theological depth of the preaching tradition that has shaped and sustained me. It helped me to name what I had long experienced—that African American preaching is not only expressive, but intellectually rigorous, ethically grounded, and spiritually transformative.” 

All four of these graduates noted that the expertise that they developed has allowed them to excel in teaching positions as well. Creating academic opportunities is one of the basic designs of the program.  

Jennifer Carner 

Director of the Preaching in a Post Christian Age Initiative, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, Pittsburg, PA 

Eugene L. Gibson, Jr.  

Assistant Professor of Homiletics and Church Leadership, Methodist Theological School in Ohio, Delaware, OH (tenure track) 

Senior Pastor, Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, Columbus OH 

Nicole McDonald 

Adjunct Faculty at Christian Theological Seminary teaching Gender, Sexuality, and Theology  

Adjunct Faculty at Chicago Theological Seminary Teaching Queer Womanist Preaching 

Adjunct Faculty at Ball State University teaching MSW – Diversity, Oppression, and Privilege 

Adjunct Faculty at Lexington Theological Seminary teaching two classes: 1. Worship and Preaching in the African American Church and 2. Building Bridges of Understanding Regarding Human Sexuality 

Adjunct Faculty at Memphis Theological Seminary teaching DMin – Womanist Rhetoric, Criticism, and Theory   

Justin West 

Executive Director of the Wackerlin Center for Faith and Action at Aurora University 

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Christian Theological Seminary recognizes the recent primary election victory of alumnus Frederick D. Haynes III (PhD ’25), who won the Democratic primary for Texas’s 30th congressional district, according to reporting from CBS News. 

Rev. Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III has served for decades as senior pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church, where he has led a large, influential congregation known for its dynamic preaching and strong commitment to community engagement. Through his ministry, he has advanced initiatives addressing economic inequality, education, public health, and social justice, positioning the church as a significant voice for faith-based advocacy and community transformation in the Dallas area. 

A 2025 graduate of Christian Theological Seminary’s PhD program in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric, Haynes’ scholarship reflects CTS’s commitment to forming practitioner-scholars. His doctoral work explored the homiletics and rhetoric of Black preaching and social justice proclamation, with particular attention to Afro-prophetic traditions. His dissertation Unashamedly Black, Unapologetically Christian: The Woke Preaching of Jeremiah A. Wright, Jr. examines the meaning of “woke” preaching through the lens of Wright’s ministry and rhetorical witness. During his studies, Haynes also contributed to the seminary’s Mixed Methods Preaching Conference, engaging the intersection of research, teaching, and congregational practice. 

Haynes has returned to CTS on multiple occasions as a speaker, including as a guest preacher in chapel and as keynote speaker for the 2024 Faith & Action Fall Event Hope on the Horizon, where he invited faith leaders to serve as “Hustlers of Hope” in their communities. 

The primary victory positions Haynes as a leading candidate in the November general election for the Dallas-area congressional district. His ongoing work in ministry and public life reflects the broader impact of CTS graduates serving at the intersection of faith, scholarship, and community engagement. 

Read the full CBS News report:
https://www.cbsnews.com/texas/news/results-texas-democratic-primary-district-30-frederick-haynes/ 

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 If one phrase could sum up Dr. Frank A. Thomas’ lifetime of preaching, teaching, writing, and leading, it might be “I want to see you win.”  

Dr. Thomas concluded his remarks at the November 12 Legacy Celebration Chapel service with those words in appreciation of all those who shared the moment with him and his family. He described his life as being one of recognition, celebration, duty, honor, service, sacrifice, responsibility, and decency.  

“It has been a burden to do what is right. A glorious burden,” he said. He said along the way he has had “amazing victories” and “stunning defeats” but that others made “the burden bearable in tough times and light in good times.” 

Thomas concluded the two-hour chapel service, which opened with an introduction by Dr. Courtney Buggs, a Call to Worship from Professor Emerita Marti Steussy, and a welcome from President David Mellott. The service also featured reflections from friends, family, and faculty, as well as a powerful sermon by Rev. Dr. Gina M. Stewart of Christ Missionary Baptist Church. Her message, “Preaching a Dangerous Sermon in Dangerous Times,” offered a stirring tribute to Thomas’ vision and teaching. 

Stewart referenced her own experience with Thomas as an instructor and his definition of dangerous – telling the truth in a world addicted to illusion and daring to imagine and proclaim the world as God intends it to be.  

“What we honor today is Thomas’ summons to action,” Stewart stated. “His scholarly, pastoral, and prophetic work that interprets the word and the world.” She went on to describe Thomas’ approach to preaching as one that is not accidental but that intentionally calls upon the student to use the “art of interpreting sacred texts through a lends of a suffering people and the courage to proclaim that suffering through a rhetoric of hope.” 

“Neutrality in preaching is not attainable,” Steward asserted.  

The word “legacy” was used often in describing the work of Thomas and the impact that he will leave after his retirement. Already a prolific teacher, preacher, and writer, Thomas joined the staff at CTS in 2013. President Mellott outlined the four far-reaching initiatives the Thomas leaves behind at the Indianapolis campus:  

The African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric PhD Program – the first and only of its kind in the country prepares practitioner-scholars to serve the church and the academy. 

The Mixed Methods Preaching Conference – designed to help preachers love and improve their preaching through lectures, education, homiletical instruction and preaching labs.  

The Legacy Preaching Series – a movement to revitalize American Christianity through an emphasis on African American preaching by bringing to life the experiences, insights, and wisdom of notable preachers who’ve made a mark on congregations, communities, and society as a whole.

The Compelling Preaching Initiative – an 18-month certificate program for Exemplar preachers to engage in cohort learning about the theology and pedagogy of preaching while further developing their own preaching method. 

Mellott went on to call Thomas’ impact on CTS “transformative,” describing his approach as caretaking, expert, and generous. He then announced that the Board of Trustees and Faculty had voted to appoint Thomas as Professor Emeritus of Homiletics.  

Thomas was gracious in receiving blessings from colleagues in the academic and ministerial communities as well as his mother, affectionately referred to in the program as Mother in Chief. He will be retiring later this year from his roles as the Nettie Sweeney and Hugh Th. Miller Professor of Homiletics and as Director of the Compelling Preaching Initiative. 

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Christian Theological Seminary is excited to announce the upcoming application period for Cohort 4 of our groundbreaking PhD in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric. This unique program is dedicated to cultivating practitioner-scholars who delve into the rich traditions of African American preaching and sacred rhetoric, contributing both to the church and the academy.

Launched as the world’s first and only academic program of its kind, the PhD in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric at CTS offers an unparalleled opportunity for in-depth study and research. The program is designed to:

• Research and Develop: Engage in scholarly exploration of the history and theology of African American preaching and sacred rhetoric.
• Expose Untold Treasures: Highlight and celebrate the unique contributions of African American homiletic traditions to the global church.
• Prepare Practitioner-Scholars: Equip students to serve effectively in both ecclesial and academic settings, bridging the gap between practice and scholarship.

Students benefit from a cohort-centered learning environment, rigorous academic coursework, practical teaching experiences, and opportunities for writing development aimed at publication. Current PhD students are a living testimony to the insights and value of African American preaching and sacred rhetoric. These practitioner-scholars are already making significant contributions to pastoral ministry, activism, and the academy. Take for example:

• Gina M. Stewart of Cohort 1, pastor of Christ Missionary Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee and President for the Lott Carey Foreign Mission Convention, serving as the first female president in the organization’s history
• Frederick Haynes, III of Cohort 2, the visionary and innovative Senior Pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas who is well-known as a passionate leader, social activist, eloquent orator, and educator engaged in fighting against racial injustice
• Dominique A. Robinson of Cohort 2, the John E. Hines Assistant Professor of Preaching at the Seminary of the Southwest in Austin, Texas (a historical assignment as she is the first African American full-time faculty member of the institution)
• Michael W. Waters of Cohort 3, Founder and Lead Pastor of the Abundant Life African American Episcopal Church in Dallas, Texas and renowned social activist

Each PhD candidate accepted into the program is fully supported by scholarships, underscoring CTS’s commitment to accessible and affordable theological education. May 2024 marked the inaugural graduation of students from the program, with 4 incredible leaders successfully defending their dissertations and going forth to serve as pastors, preachers, and professors.

The application window for Cohort 4 opens on May 1, 2025, and closes on May 31, 2025. To provide prospective students with comprehensive insights into the program, CTS is hosting a PhD Program Open House on March 20, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM (EDT). This event offers an opportunity to:

• Engage with Faculty and Current Students: Learn firsthand about the program’s impact and community.
• Understand the Curriculum: Gain clarity on course offerings, research opportunities, and practical experiences.
• Navigate the Application Process: Receive guidance on application requirements and timelines.

Attendees can choose to participate in the Open House either in person at the CTS campus in Indianapolis, IN, or virtually by Zoom. Registration is required for all participants.

Participating in the Open House allows prospective students to immerse themselves in the CTS community and gain valuable information to inform their application. It’s an opportunity to ask questions, meet potential peers, and envision your future in this pioneering program.

Next Steps

1. Mark Your Calendar: Save the dates for the Open House on March 20, 2025, and the application period from May 1 to May 31, 2025.
2. Register for the Open House: Visit the CTS website to secure your spot for the event online or in person.
3. Stay Connected: For updates and additional information, reach out to the CTS admissions team or visit www.cts.edu.

Embark on a transformative journey that honors and advances the legacy of African American preaching and sacred rhetoric. Register for the PhD Open House today! We look forward to welcoming the next cohort of dedicated scholar-practitioners to Christian Theological Seminary.

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Rev. Dr. Frank A. Thomas has left an indelible mark on preaching, pastoral ministry, and the Academy. In honor of his inimitable work, Christian Theological Seminary is raising $3,000,000 to establish the Frank A. and Joyce S. Thomas Endowed Chair to publicly acknowledge, celebrate, and resource Thomas’ commitment to developing practitioner scholars and advancing scholarship on the beauty, depth, creativity, imagination, and power of African American preaching.

The establishment of the Endowed Chair is vital for the future of Academia. First and foremost, it serves to elevate the discourse around African American preaching, ensuring that it receives the scholarly attention it deserves. African American preaching is not merely a stylistic approach but a rich tradition that embodies cultural heritage, social justice, and communal identity. By supporting research and teaching in this area, the chair aims to foster a deeper understanding of how preaching can serve as a catalyst for social change and community empowerment.

Moreover, the chair will facilitate the development of innovative curriculum and programs that address contemporary issues facing African American communities. It will create opportunities for students and practitioners to engage with the historical and theological foundations of their faith while equipping them with practical skills for effective ministry in today’s diverse contexts.

Dr. Thomas was instrumental in founding the PhD program at CTS, cultivating a generation of scholars committed to innovative and impactful preaching. His work has inspired numerous programs, including the PhD in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric, The African American Legacy Preaching Series, and The Compelling Preaching Initiative. These programs brought forth the Mixed Methods Preaching Conference, the third iteration of which took place from October 21 to 24, 2024 at Light of the World Christian Church. This conference exemplifies the ongoing impact of Dr. Thomas’ vision, bringing together practitioners and scholars to explore diverse approaches to preaching that resonate within contemporary contexts.

The 2024 Mixed Methods Preaching Conference, titled The Preacher as Artist: Painting Pictures that Reach the Soul was a transformative event, attracting over 100 attendees and featuring a remarkable lineup of more than 15 significant African American preachers who participated not only as speakers and workshop leaders but also as engaged participants in discussions and networking opportunities. This unique setting allowed attendees to connect with these esteemed leaders, fostering an atmosphere of collaboration and shared learning.

Throughout the conference, attendees had the opportunity to interact directly with prominent figures such as Rev. Dr. Otis Moss, III; Rev. Dr. Leslie D. Callahan; and Rev. Dr. Edward L. Branch. The workshops and sessions provided a platform for deep engagement, where participants could share experiences, ask questions, and gain insights from these leaders who have shaped the landscape of preaching. The inclusive environment encouraged dialogue and reflection, highlighting the collective wisdom present in the room. It was a curated experience that can be found only at CTS.

The conference featured a diverse range of activities, including dynamic preaching workshops, scholarly lectures, and communal worship experiences. Each day began with uplifting praise and worship led by Tavares Stephens, setting a spiritually enriching tone for the gatherings. Attendees participated in hands-on workshops that emphasized practical preaching techniques, storytelling, and innovative methods for engaging congregations.

A highlight of the conference was the celebration of the Compelling Preaching Initiative, which marked the completion of its 1st Cohort. This special occasion included Exemplar testimonies from graduates, heartfelt remarks from instructors, and a meaningful ceremony where the Exemplars were awarded their certificates for completing the program. The stories shared by the graduates illuminated the impact of the initiative and the transformative journey they experienced, underscoring the significance of fostering effective preaching in diverse communities.

The conference also included artistic experiences like a special comedy lunch with Marcus Wiley, which brought joy and laughter to participants, reminding everyone of the importance of joy in ministry. Tavares Stephens used audience interaction to provide spoken word interpretations of the event’s key takeaways. A live artist painted during plenary sessions, taking inspiration from the speakers and providing painted interpretations of the gathering. Evening worship sessions, including a powerful sermon by Pastor Tisha Dixon-Williams, further inspired the attendees, allowing them to witness firsthand the art of preaching that ignites hearts and minds.

As we celebrate this significant advancement in our institution and the legacy of Dr. Frank A. Thomas, we invite the community to learn more about the Endowed Chair and its vision here. Additional insights into the Mixed Methods Preaching Conference and its role in the ongoing dialogue around preaching can be found on the conference website, with further details in the press release about the chair here.

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On May 6, 2024, Christian Theological Seminary (CTS) eagerly welcomed Cohort 2 of the Compelling Preaching Initiative to campus for their inaugural in-person residency. Led by Program Director Dr. Frank Thomas, Cohort 2 engaged in their first course, “History of African American Preaching,” facilitated by Rev. Dr. Geno Gibson and Rev. Dr. Jennifer Carner, both esteemed recent graduates of the PhD Program in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric.

The new cohort comprises 17 Exemplar preachers from across the country, each dedicated to honing their skills and deepening their understanding of the sacred art of preaching. Reflecting on the arrival of Cohort 2, Rev. Dr. Gibson expressed his excitement and optimism, stating, “It’s amazing. Cohort 1 was so wonderful, and now to see Cohort 2 – the brightness of their eyes, the expectation that they come with, and the vast knowledge of preaching they each have separately is coming together as a community. It’s very exciting.”

Similarly, Rev. Dr. Carner shared her enthusiasm for the new group, stating, “It was absolutely incredible to have them on campus and feel their excitement about the history of African American Preaching and the history of this great homiletical tradition that we belong to. I’m most looking forward to seeing them blossom and grow as scholar-practitioners. They’re a gifted group, and I’m glad to be working with them.”

The visit of Cohort 2 included a carefully curated agenda designed to foster learning, community-building, and spiritual enrichment. Activities ranged from syllabus reviews and group covenants to engaging lectures, discussions, and special worship gatherings. The program also featured special presentations and testimonials, including a stirring testimony from Dr. Carolyn Knight, a member of Cohort 1, who shared her transformative experience in the program.

The Compelling Preaching Initiative, launched by CTS in 2023 through generous support from the Lilly Endowment, aims to equip preachers with the skills, knowledge, and spiritual depth needed to deliver compelling sermons that resonate with congregations and communities in exciting, engaging, and effective new ways. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, mentorship, and practical training, participants deepen their understanding of preaching as a sacred vocation and hone their ability to communicate effectively and authentically.

Cohort 2’s arrival marks another milestone in the ongoing success of the Compelling Preaching Initiative, underscoring CTS’s commitment to nurturing and empowering preachers from diverse backgrounds and traditions. As the newest cohort embarks on their journey, they join a vibrant community of fellow preachers dedicated to proclaiming the transformative power of the Gospel.

For more information about the Compelling Preaching Initiative, including upcoming events such as the Mixed Methods Preaching Conference, application details, and testimonials from past participants, visit the Compelling Preaching Initiative page on our website. Explore ways to learn how you can be a part of this transformative program and join a community of passionate preachers dedicated to honing their craft and spreading the message of hope and redemption.

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In a historic moment for Christian Theological Seminary, Nicole McDonald has become the first student in the world to successfully defend a dissertation for a PhD in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric. This groundbreaking achievement marks a significant milestone not only for McDonald but also for the institution, which pioneered the program to address a critical gap in academic scholarship and theological education.

The PhD in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric program at CTS was established with the aim of advancing scholarship in an area of profound cultural and spiritual significance. Rooted in the rich tradition of African American preaching, the program seeks to explore the theological, rhetorical, and cultural dimensions of preaching within African American communities. “The successful defense of the first PhD in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric marks a pivotal historical moment in the scholarly exploration of African American religious traditions. This achievement not only honors the rich heritage of African American preaching but also signifies a critical step towards inclusivity and recognition within the academic realm of theological studies in the United States,” says Dean Francisco Lozada, Jr.

CTS Dean Dr. Francisco Lozada, Jr. (left) poses for a picture with Nicole McDonald to celebrate her successful defense of her dissertation.

Nicole McDonald’s journey to becoming the first student to successfully defend her dissertation for the PhD Program is one marked by resilience, passion, and unwavering determination. Her dissertation represents a culmination of years of rigorous research, critical analysis, and deep engagement with the traditions and practices of African American preaching. “Nicole is the first of what I anticipate will be many scholars to matriculate through CTS’s AAPSR Program. We are committed to studying Black preaching and sacred rhetoric at the highest levels of inquiry and transgressing scholarship that minimizes the contributions of Black preaching luminaries. I am honored to do this work with these amazing practitioner-scholars,” shares Program Director Dr. Courtney V. Buggs.

Hailing from Hampton, Virginia, McDonald’s academic pursuits began with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Virginia, where she distinguished herself in the field of Civil Engineering. However, her true calling emerged during her time at Virginia Union University, where she earned a Master of Divinity degree. It was here that McDonald’s passion for theology and preaching blossomed, setting her on a transformative path towards doctoral studies. Nicole’s journey to her PhD was not without its challenges. Despite facing setbacks in her previous attempts to gain acceptance into PhD programs, her perseverance and determination ultimately led her to the inaugural cohort of the PhD in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric at CTS.

Armed with a diverse educational background and a fervent desire to delve deeper into the intersection of faith, rhetoric, and social justice, McDonald embarked on her doctoral journey at CTS. Her dissertation, titled “Yvette A. Flunder: The Apocalyptic Prophet,” explores the prophetic preaching of Reverend Dr. Yvette A. Flunder and its impact on African American religious discourse. Through meticulous research and critical analysis, Nicole illuminates the profound significance of Bishop Flunder’s preaching in challenging societal norms, advocating for LGBTQ+ inclusion, and fostering spiritual liberation.

Reflecting on her CTS experience, Nicole emphasizes the transformative power of scholarship and community. “My CTS experience has been invaluable,” she shares. “Moving to Indianapolis for a year allowed me to immerse myself in a supportive community of scholars and clergy who nurtured my intellectual and spiritual growth.” Nicole acknowledges the pivotal role of scholarship support in enabling her doctoral pursuits, stating, “I would not have been able to pursue this PhD without the generous scholarship assistance provided by CTS. It relieved me of financial burdens and empowered me to fully dedicate myself to my academic endeavors.”

Students in Cohort 1 of the PhD in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric pose for a picture together while on campus at CTS. Nicole McDonald is pictured second from the left.

Throughout her tenure at CTS, the supportive community of faculty, mentors, and fellow students have deeply influenced McDonald. Individuals such as Monique Crain Spells, Sheila Spencer, Aimee Laramore, Amelia Walker, and Chesla Nickelson played instrumental roles in guiding and encouraging her along her academic journey. The unwavering support and mentorship of the CTS community helped shape Nicole’s scholarly pursuits and nurtured her growth as a scholar and a leader.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Nicole serves as a Pediatric ICU Chaplain in Atlanta, where she provides spiritual care to critically ill children and their families. Drawing upon her background as a hospice chaplain, Nicole brings compassion, empathy, and a profound sense of presence to her ministry, guiding families through moments of profound grief and uncertainty.

CTS Associate Dean of Student Life Rev. Ayanna Garrett (left) and Rev. Monique Crain Spells (right) pose for a picture with Nicole McDonald to celebrate her successful defense of her dissertation.

As the first student to successfully defend her dissertation, she paves the way for future scholars and practitioners to delve into this important field of study. Her work not only contributes to the academic discourse surrounding African American preaching but also offers valuable insights into the role of rhetoric in shaping religious identity, community formation, and social justice activism.
In May, three additional students are set to defend their dissertations and graduate from the PhD in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric program, further cementing CTS’s commitment to advancing scholarship in this vital area. Together, these four trailblazing scholars represent the vanguard of a new era of academic inquiry and theological reflection.

Their collective achievement underscores the significance of diverse voices and perspectives within theological education and reaffirms CTS’s mission to foster inclusive learning environments that honor the richness of religious and cultural diversity. Program founder Dr. Frank A. Thomas reflects, “From an idea sketched on a yellow notepad to now, our first PhD graduates – this is the vision come to fruition. I am so proud of Nicole’s work, and all of the 2024 graduates, and how their work significantly contributes to the landscape of homiletics and rhetorical studies. These new scholars chart an intentional path of centering the genius of African American preaching as a credible field of study and exploration.” As they prepare to graduate and embark on new chapters in their academic and professional journeys, they carry with them the legacy of excellence and innovation that defines the PhD in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric program at CTS.

Looking ahead, McDonald offers words of wisdom to current and future PhD students at CTS. “Trust the process,” she advises. “Find your rhythm of writing, stay committed to your goals, and pursue topics that ignite your passion and purpose.” She emphasizes the importance of authenticity in scholarship, urging students to “risk it all and go as deep as you can.” In doing so, she believes, scholars can unlock new insights and make meaningful contributions to their fields.

As Nicole McDonald prepares to make history as the first PhD graduate in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric at CTS, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring scholars and clergy alike. Her dedication to scholarship, coupled with her unwavering commitment to social justice and spiritual care, exemplifies the values upheld by Christian Theological Seminary. As she blazes the trail for future generations, Nicole’s legacy will endure as a testament to the transformative power of education, faith, and perseverance.

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