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LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — For Philander Smith University President Dr. Maurice Gipson, support from The United Methodist Church, its General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM), and the Black College Fund is essential. “I look at those funds as our version of state support,” Gipson said. “Without the support, there would be critical infrastructure activity we’d be unable to do.”

There is no shortage of alarming events in our world today. News of pain and violence perpetrated against the most vulnerable is everywhere. It is easy to become paralyzed by fear. Overwhelmed by the amount of suffering. And in the process, lose sight of caring for our neighbor.

Rev. Justin Colón, chaplain at Robinson School in San Juan, a missionary-founded girls’ school that has grown into an international, English-speaking co-ed prep school, says his work with students is grounded in a steady sense of hope shaped by his faith.

As I read the events of the last supper, I can’t help but notice the reaction of the disciples to the news that one of them would betray Jesus. They didn’t all look to Judas, pointing a finger at the obvious culprit. One by one, each questioned: Is it I, Lord? Could it be me?

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — “Meharry [Medical College] was birthed, reared in and now sustained by our faith. Methodists came together to create something special,” said Dr. James Hildreth, president and CEO of Meharry. “It allows our students to worship God through service.”

The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) of The United Methodist Church has awarded a $975,000 capacity building grant to support Gammon Theological Seminary’s work toward independent accreditation and long term sustainability.

I find peace in perspective. I also find strength, particularly when I feel overwhelmed. Perspective helps me understand that what is in front of me need not determine my fate. Japanese poet Nanao Sakaki said it best with his poem, "Break the Mirror."

AUSTIN, Texas — In 2025, Huston-Tillotson University celebrated 150 years of service and transformation, supported in part by the Black College Fund (BCF) of The United Methodist Church (UMC). President Dr. Melva K. Williams said BCF funding has been “transformational” for the private, United Methodist-related Historically Black College and University (HBCU), which does not receive state funding. The university ranks No. 1 among private HBCUs in Texas and No. 15 overall, according to Niche Colleges’ 2026 rankings.

MARSHALL, Texas — The United Methodist Church’s Black College Fund has made an “indelible footprint” on Wiley University, providing steadfast support that President Dr. Herman Felton Jr. says continues to drive student success, modernize the 151‑year‑old campus, and strengthen the institution’s long‑term stability.

Twenty years ago, a mentor saw me starting to burn out. He encouraged me to take a personal retreat. This was both renewal and challenge – could I let myself BE for just a couple of days? A part of the plan was to go to Olympic National Park, just to walk in the meadows. With no hat, no food, no extra water, and Birkenstocks on my feet, I headed into the mountains.