Four key strategies for turning underused facilities and undervalued property into mission-sustaining resources

As theological schools consider how to prepare for the future, a Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative grant is offering institutions an opportunity for shared services. AdminWise Shared Services, a nonprofit started out of a Lilly Endowment grant, is now offering a slate of administrative functions to help theological schools.

Conflict can either divide or strengthen institutions, offering a framework and practical strategies for constructive dialogue.

ATS research into executive leadership at theological schools is the focus of a free, hour-long webinar, the first of two parts.

What does it take to lead a theological institution today? Auburn Seminary is relaunching Auburn Studies, beginning with a valuable report on leadership. In this episode, the Rev. Dr. Patrick Reyes, dean of Auburn Seminary, shares key trends in the field, and study author, the Very Rev. Dr. Michael DeLashmutt of General Theological Seminary, explains what his research uncovered.

Dr. Rebekah Burch Basinger sees fundraising as a vital ministry that can shape faith and fuel the work of theological education. An expert in fundraising, Basinger revisits her book "Growing Givers' Hearts" on its 25th anniversary and explores the power of generosity, breaking the scarcity mindset and embracing God’s abundance. She shares insights from her research, offering practical wisdom for boards, presidents, and leaders to treat fundraising as an expression of faith. Learn how theological schools can inspire donors, strengthen financial health, and model a spirit of generosity that transforms future church leaders.

Budget balancing is a challenging process that requires oversight.

Theological schools across North America are at a pivotal moment. In this episode, Rev. Frank Yamada, Ph.D., executive director of the Association of Theological Schools, and Amy Kardash, president of the In Trust Center for Theological Schools, discuss both the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of theological education.

Acadia Divinity College in Canada has been experimenting with AI and exploring the future of theological education and the church. The Rev. Anna Robbins, Ph.D., discusses what the school has done (including offering an AI-developed class) and describes AI's moment in history as akin to the printing press because of its transformative nature. She considers the mission of theological schools, the accessibility of AI, and how schools might preserve human connection and formation.

Research by scholars at the Association of Theological Schools suggests a misalignment between how students in theological schools are being trained and what the workforce needs. Dr. Deborah Gin and the Rev. Dr. Jo Ann Deasy of ATS explain the research, the misalignments, and ways that schools can move forward to better prepare students.

Lilly Endowment Inc.’s expanded Pathways for Tomorrow initiative will offer up to $325 million to help theological schools accredited by the Association for Theological Schools collaborate and innovate. The Rev. Dr. Jo Ann Deasy of ATS, who oversees the Pathways coordination work, offers insights on what Pathways has accomplished so far and what could be ahead.

Consider these top 10 questions that trustees, presidents, and CFOs should ask each other and themselves when first considering a merger