News

Roland Fernandes received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree for his impact and leadership in global mission, education and humanitarian service in The United Methodist Church.

As commencement season unfolds this May, the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) celebrates the dreams realized by 290 graduates whose journeys were fueled by GBHEM scholarships.

Annual conferences are strongly encouraged to ratify the constitutional amendment to Paragraph 35 (Ballot #4) because it standardizes and clarifies who is eligible to vote for clergy delegates to General Conference.

Roland Fernandes, general secretary of the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry and of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church, joined more than 500 higher education leaders in signing “A Call for Constructive Engagement,” a statement from the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) defending the essential freedoms of U.S. colleges and universities against political interference and coercive government overreach.

The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) approved a one-time Methodist Educational Fund (MEF) subsidy of $400,000 to each of the 13 United Methodist theological schools at its spring 2025 board of directors meeting.

Presentations from partners energize Global Ministries and Higher Education and Ministry board members, inspiring questions on how the church might be uniquely positioned to meet this moment of increased suffering around the world.

Report of General Secretary Roland Fernandes to the Board of Directors of Global Ministries and Higher Education and Ministry

“I am so grateful and humbled. This scholarship helps me fulfill my dream of attending college, and I look forward to continuing to grow my faith within the Methodist Church throughout college and beyond.” — Matthew Mertes, The Ohio State University Matthew Mertes is...

Haley Reardon, chief development officer Haley M. Reardon joins the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry and the General Board of Global Ministries as chief development officer on March 24, 2025. Reporting to General Secretary Roland Fernandes, Reardon will lead both agencies in advancing their global...

“This scholarship is a blessing. It helps make my education a reality and motivates me to keep pushing toward my goals. Without it, I would not be able to afford my education at Oklahoma City University.” — Jacquelyn Purtell, Oklahoma City University Jacquelyn Purtell’s...