Illustration by Ellen Marello

At Auburn, we’re changing how we talk about our history. We’re a 10-generation institution, with each generation called to lead in its moment. We hope another 10 generations will benefit from our current work.

To think intergenerationally is to imagine thriving futures, understanding that ancestors have loved us into this moment. There will be a time when we also will be good ancestors.

Ten generations ago, the people who founded Auburn weren’t imagining a Chicano “left coaster” as dean. From my own indigeneity, putting things in a generational perspective is part of the work, especially in crisis. A 10-generation institution says we’ve been here before. We are part of a long story.

So many institutional leaders are up against the anxiety of the present moment. Will we stay open? Who will be our students – and in our case at Auburn Theological Seminary – who is central to our mission?

Let’s take a long, slow breath and imagine the future as if it counts. I’ve said to our board, there is a better dean that will come to Auburn Theological.

I’m working hard to ensure the person who comes after me (and those generations to follow) will have what they need to lead with love in their moment.