Why a Suburban Seminary Sold Their Campus and Moved to the City
ST. PAUL, Minn., Jan. 22, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Ministry has changed significantly since United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities opened its doors in 1962. Faith leadership requires more than theological understanding; whether seminary students become ministers, chaplains or nonprofit executives, they also must develop innovative, financially viable programs to address the needs of the populations they serve. On Tuesday, January 22, United opens its newly relocated campus in the creative heart of St. Paul -- a campus designed with innovation in mind.
A key feature of the new campus is the Innovation Lab. Under the leadership of the Reverend Karen Hutt, a United vice president with responsibility for innovation, this lab will serve as a space for speakers and series, such as "The Art of…" series, which will focus on topics like improvisation and conflict resolution. It also will provide space for student projects, from podcasts to artistic expressions of faith. And, Hutt plans to serve the community by opening the lab and other parts of campus to caregivers and change makers who are seeking a place where they can be refreshed and re-energized for their work.
Additionally, the campus is equipped with the latest technologies to allow the 25 percent of students who are distance learners to participate in student and faculty conversations in student huddle rooms, the Innovation Lab and even the dining area in addition to the classrooms.
Dr. Kyle Roberts, United's academic dean, has worked with the faculty to align the curriculum with required leadership competencies for today's ministries. These competencies reflect the knowledge needed to lead a successful church, faith organization or nonprofit as faith communities evolve.
"Religious leaders need to be comfortable outside of church buildings, working within diverse communities ministering to the needs of people in everyday settings," said United President Lew Zeidner. "Our new campus and innovation focus will ensure that students develop strong practical ministry leadership skills in ways that are well integrated with their rigorous academic training."
When Mission House Seminary in Wisconsin and Yankton School of Theology in South Dakota merged to form United, the founders' vision was to train faith leaders through real world experiences in the Twin Cities. That dream will be fully realized with United's move to 767 Eustis St., Suite 140, St. Paul, Minnesota 55114.
SOURCE United Theological Seminary of The Twin Cities
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