About Us

In 1987, the Black Clergywomen Caucus of the United Methodist Church met in the Bahamas to bring to light some of the concerns involving black women and the Church. One of the issues discussed was the lack of women of color faculty at United Methodist seminaries and theological schools. What began as a discussion resulted in a recommendation that the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry develop strategies to address this imbalance.

 

Through its Office of Loans and Scholarships and Division of Ordained Ministry, GBHEM created a scholarship program like none other - the Woman of Color Scholars Program. Established to create a pool of trailblazing United Methodist women of color, many of whom are ordained clergy, more than 22 women scholars have successfully completed the program and set out on career paths in theological and religious education.

In August, 2006, in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of clergywomen receiving full rights in the United Methodist Church, the Women of Color Consultation/Celebration was held to recognize the achievements of the program and feature its mentors, graduates and present scholars.

Preparing a new generation of Christian leaders

Related Resources

To obtain a PDF of the historical 1982 RECC report, please email HiRho Park.

Support the Women of Color Scholarship Endowment

To contribute to the WOC Scholarship Endowment Fund, make checks payable to the GBHEM Office of Loans and Scholarships, WOC Endowment Fund. Mail to: GBHEM, Office of Loans and Scholarships, 1001 19th Avenue, South, Nashville, TN 37203. Learn more about the Women of Color Scholars program.

You can also support the WOC Scholarship Fund by purchasing the Following the Path DVD directly.
Download an order form here (PDF) .

Also available are blank notecards featuring the scholars themselves. Proceeds of the card sales will go to the endowment fund. Download an order form here (PDF).

Contact Us

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