Category: Dean’s Commentary

What Makes You Come Alive?

  Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and go do that, because what the world needs is people who have come alive. — Howard Thurman This weekend, I went and saw the play “King Hedley II” at the Edison Theatre at Washington University. The production was put on […]

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The Alumni Association Executive Committee

This week’s Commentaries have been written by members of the AAEC (Alumni Association Executive Committee). For Commentary readers unfamiliar with AAEC’s work, here is some brief information about their role and activities.   The AAEC is the elected executive body of the Alumni Association of Virginia Theological Seminary. As all VTS alumni are members of […]

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Gratitude and Farewell: A Journey of Blessings

As my retirement from Virginia Seminary later this month rapidly approaches, I’ve been reflecting on my career. My first day at VTS was October 31, 1990.  This was before many of you reading this were even born!  My career since then has involved a lot of hard work, occasionally long hours, some frustration, but—above all—many, […]

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Joys and Challenges in Early Childhood Education

Working with young children is something that has always come naturally to me. It is my passion, my calling, a true gift.  Every day I am given the opportunity to positively impact a child’s life. There is nothing better than that.  For me, being an early childcare educator is a rewarding and fulfilling profession, however, […]

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Continuing Education at the Seminary: A Personal MBA Experience

Continuing education is one of the many generous benefits that the Seminary offers. This benefit program allows staff to further their education whether it is to get an associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree. The benefit can be used for courses held at the Seminary or through another accredited institution. Based on funding available, the […]

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Summer Connections: Joy, Laughter, and Table Fellowship

Summer is here and this is the time of year many of us get to pause and break from our daily routine.  This summer I have been intentional about connecting with staff to see how everyone is doing, their families and friends.  Table fellowship is my preferred way to connect with people, so I have […]

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Recognizing the Dean’s Office Staff Members

The daily commentary is one small way in which we can express our gratitude for the multiple staff members that contribute to the success of the Dean & President’s Office. Please join me in thanking the following Virginia Theological Seminary staff who contribute more to the Seminary than their titles let on. Mr. Reggie Gravina, […]

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Embracing Community: Reflections from the VTS Operations Manager

In 2023, I took on the role of Operations Manager for Guest Services, reporting to the Dean and President’s Office. It’s a fulfilling position that has brought me closer to the VTS & Episcopal Church community. In this role, I have the privilege of welcoming back alumni to campus, helping my colleagues book meeting spaces, […]

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Welcome to Sharon Longley

My name is Sharon Longley.  I am the new Guest Relations Specialist in the Welcome Center.  It has been a pleasure working at Virginia Theological Seminary for the past month.  I come to the campus having served as a pastor for seven years in Florida.  I traveled in ministry for 25 years singing professionally and […]

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