Date: June 1, 2026
Members of the VTS Alumni Association Executive Committee (AAEC) will be offering the Commentaries this week, beginning with today’s message from The Very Rev. Billy Alford ’92, who serves both as the alumni-elected member of the Board of Trustees and as a member of the AAEC. His reflection is directed particularly to the newly graduated Class of 2026, but will resonate with all alumni and readers.
Dear VTS Graduates of the Class of 2026,
As a grateful alumnus of the Virginia Theological Seminary, Class of 1992, and now serving on the Board of Trustees, I join the entire VTS community in celebrating the Class of 2026. Your achievement marks not only the completion of rigorous study, but your deeper formation for lives of faithful leadership in Christ’s Church.
Since its founding in 1823, VTS has prepared women and men, lay and ordained, to serve with wisdom, compassion, and courage. Today, as you join more than 3,300 alumni/ae, you step into a living tradition that continues to shape over a quarter of the clergy of The Episcopal Church and influences the wider Anglican Communion. Whether you carry forward an M.Div., a master’s degree, or a Doctor of Ministry, you are now stewards of this sacred VTS legacy.
Your ministry begins at a pivotal moment. As VTS and The General Theological Seminary (GTS) undertake the search for a new Dean and President, the future of theological education is being prayerfully discerned. In this season of transition, your voice, witness, and leadership will help guide the Church forward.
Welcome to the VTS Alumni community. You are now part of a lifelong fellowship bound by learning, service, and faith. May you go forth strengthened by your formation, sustained by grace, and ever mindful that you do not serve alone.
The Very Rev. Billy Alford, VTS ‘92
Alumni-elected Member of the Board of Trustees
Member of the AAEC