Howard University School of Divinity.  Ours is an institution that is rich in tradition, storied with legacy, lauded for its graduates, and poised to do “even greater things than these.” 

In the months and year ahead considerable transition will occur at the School of Divinity.  So many of you – students, staff, faculty, alumni/ae and friends – have long and deeply invested of yourselves to ensure that HUSD will be a beacon of leadership and hope for the descendants of Africa and, indeed, the children of God everywhere.  You have made critical evaluations about our school’s resources from staffing, curriculum, physical plant, and financial aid to scholarship, community life, worship life, our public witness and more.  Already, some among you have shared your deepest aspirations and frustrations.  All have encouraged me to gauge our institution’s strengths and weaknesses with candor and in faith in light of current and projected human and fiscal resources.

Howard University School of Divinity.  The sacred is imminently and manifestly apparent in this place.  All around me are evidenced accomplishments of the impossible and assurances of the unseen.  I walk the corridors of HUSD with the joy and excitement of the newcomer and feel the presence of the expectant in every face, word, conversation and deed.  It is an unspeakable joy to be called to leadership of this the most venerable of institutions in graduate theological education.  Because of our “very present help” we are called to move the School of Divinity forward with great determination, dedication and commitment.  I am deeply grateful to this community for the darkly radiant vision that brought us to this opportune moment in time.

You will hear more from me over the course of the year.  I look forward to hearing more from you as well.  To prospective students – your presence is welcome!  We will together envision the future that requires far more from us in the way of faithfulness, creativity, intellect and technology.  We will plan and implement new possibilities for rigorous thinking, engaged learning, compassionate ministry, moral leadership and prophetic witness.  Sometimes, we will be found wanting.  Always, we will grow together in wisdom and in truth. 

Howard University School of Divinity.  The half has not been told about what God has in store for us.  We are blessed to be part of this magnificent company of the faithful.  I look forward to the journey and working with you.

In the Presence,

Alton B. Pollard III, Ph.D.
Dean

Dean Alton B. Pollard III