Answering the Call with GBHEM Scholarship: Ashlee French’s Journey Toward Chaplaincy
“I am grateful for the Brandenburg scholarship, which enables me to pursue graduate theological education at minimal cost. It is a joy to finally answer God’s call and to do so without financial burden.”
— Ashlee French, Wesley Theological Seminary
Ashlee French is answering God’s call to ministry in a way that reflects both faith and dedication. At 54, French is pursuing an M.A. at Wesley Theological Seminary to become an ordained deacon and chaplain. While she has served her local church in creative ways, her journey to chaplaincy has not followed a traditional career path.
A crucial part of French’s ministry has been her involvement in Fresh Expressions of church—innovative, outside-the-box ministries designed to reach people where they are. One such expression, Sing, Pray, Love, is a worship ministry for a senior residential community. Another, Creative Crafters, connects her neighborhood through creativity and discipleship. However, her calling goes beyond these local initiatives: she envisions serving in hospitals, prisons, or wherever God leads.
To effectively answer this call, French knows she needs advanced theological education. “Chaplains must have a broad base of theological knowledge and a robust repository of spiritual practices to be successful,” she explains. But with limited resources, Ashlee found the financial burden of seminary education daunting.
That’s where the E. Craig Brandenburg Scholarship from the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, came in. “I am grateful for the Brandenburg scholarship, which enables me to pursue graduate theological education at minimal cost,” French shares. “It is a joy to finally answer God’s call and to do so without financial burden.”
Upon completion of her degree, French plans to pursue associate board certification as a chaplain, expanding her ministry opportunities.
GBHEM Scholarship Program
GBHEM Scholarships offer financial aid to United Methodist students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. Every year, an average of $4 million is awarded to help students in the United States and abroad pursue their dreams through higher education. With this financial aid, GBHEM is opening pathways for students of all backgrounds to earn their degrees and serve as the next generation of leaders for the church and the world. Learn more.
Related Posts
The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) hosted the 2025 United Methodist Church Deacons Gathering, a landmark event convening nearly 150 deacons, provisional deacons and candidates in Nashville, Tennessee, and online.
Love is truly the most powerful force we can encounter. If our communities put the energy it takes them to be angry into being loving, no challenge will stand against them. Love always wins.
When the Rev. Brian Anderson meets a new student at Alaska Pacific University, he sees more than just a name on a roster. “What inspires hope for me,” he says, “is beginning relationships. Meeting each new student and reconnecting with returning ones over the years. It’s a privilege to walk alongside them.”
