Date: June 5, 2026
Almost a dozen years ago, I moved to Virginia Theological Seminary for a period of three years. I clearly remember that day in August 2015 when I pushed suitcases into room 104 in St. George’s dorm. Within hours, I had met many of my new neighbors and I thought the bonding process was well underway.
I soon discovered that there would be challenges getting to know new people. We were from far-flung places with a variety of ideas about “who is my neighbor.”
Once classes begin and you establish your rhythm of life, bonding will commence. Embrace your newfound community. The friendships you develop on the campus will hopefully be with those who become your life-long confidants, cheerleaders, and coaches. They will also become your traveling buddies, godparents to your children and profound friends.
As President of the Alumni Association, I feel convicted to encourage you to also remain connected to the Seminary. Consider VTS your home base. You may be surprised how comforting it is to reach back to the community for support. It also gives you renewed opportunities to pay it forward, including, joining the community of a new graduate.
According to the Book of Genesis, “the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing.”
The Lord sent many VTS alumni to new lands to create or renew or reinspire new communities. We take comfort in the knowledge that we go with the gift of the Holy Spirit and the relationships we developed on this campus that will be there for us as we assimilate into new places. Thank you, Lord, for helping us to make “forever” connections.
The Rev. Canon Kathleen Walker ‘18
AAEC President
Canon Missioner for Black Ministries
Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina