鶹Ƶ;Verne to Play Key Role in $10 Million Initiative Expanding Pathways to Ministry and Graduate Theological Education
ULV students have new pathways into ministry and graduate theological education thanks to a $10Mgrantawarded to Bethany Theological Seminary by Lilly Endowment. (ULV photo/Jeanine Hill)
New Brethren Higher Education Consortium will expand early access to graduate-level theological study for undergraduate nationwide.
The 鶹Ƶ;Verne will take a leading role in a major national initiative to broaden pathways into ministry and graduate theological studies, made possible by a $10 million grant awarded to by .
The grant will establish the , a collaborative network connecting Bethany with ULV, Bridgewater College, Elizabethtown College, Manchester University, McPherson College, and Juniata College.
As part of the initiative,ULV will participate in UP@Bethany, a new program that enables juniors and seniors from consortium institutions to enroll in Bethany’s graduate-level courses before completing their undergraduate degrees. All courses will be offered through Bethany’s distance-learning format.
“The 鶹Ƶ;Verne is proud to serve as a key partner in this initiative,” said Risa Dickson, president of ULV. “As one of the largest and most diverse institutions in this consortium, the university will play a vital role in shaping student engagement and cultivating interest in advanced theological study.”
The Lilly Endowment is a private foundation based in Indianapolis, Indiana that supports community development, education, and religious causes. The grant is part of its , which supports efforts to strengthen theological education and prepare future pastoral leaders.
Of the total grant, $5 million will provide immediate funding to launch the consortium and associated programs. Bethany Theological Seminary must raise an additional $3 million from other donors to unlock $5 million in matching funds from Lilly Endowment.


