Garrett- Evangelical Theological Seminary strengthens ties with Africa University

The leadership of Garrett- Evangelical Theological Seminary (G-ETS) visited Africa University from the 20th to the 22nd of February 2023 to strengthen connections and fellowship with the institution in the areas of leadership, social justice, ecological preservation and student welfare and wellbeing.

The delegation comprised of G-ETS President Professor Rev. Javier Viera, Professor Rev. Mai-Anh Tran – Vice President for Academic Affairs and Academic Dean, Rev. Becky Eberhart -Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships, Rev. Scott Ostlund- Vice President for Enrollment Management and Professor Esther Acolatse – Professor of Pastoral Theology and World Christianity.

G-ETS is a private seminary and graduate school of Theology located in Evanston , Illinois on the campus of Northwestern University offering a number of masters and doctoral degree programmes . G-ETS attracts students from all over the globe , creating leaders dedicated to the thriving of the church and the healing of the world.

Vice Chancellor Reverend Professor Peter Mageto welcomed the executive leadership to the university campus and appreciated the dedication and commitment of G-ETS to Africa University  and its student body. Rev. Prof. Mageto is a distinguished alumnus of G-ETS from which he graduated with  a Doctor of Philosophy.

President Prof. Javier Viera, who is the first Latinx leader of the seminary in its over 169 year history said  in a courtesy call with the Vice Chancellor  that he cherished the relationship that has existed between G-ETS and Africa University over the years with a number of AU graduates enrolling for postgraduate degrees.

“We are always so impressed and amazed at the caliber of students that we receive from Africa University and I can say with certainty that they are leaders on our campus. We are here to think and deliberate on areas upon which we can collaborate . Our two institutions share so much in common and have a very similar vision for the future of our world.”

Vice President  for Academic Affairs and Academic Dean Professor Rev.  Mai-Anh Tran added, ” We often hear from your former students who are now enrolled at Garrett that the world meets Africa at Africa University . At Garrett, our students meet the world. We both share that global outlook and perspective and offer to our students at both campuses scintillating and unique experiences that grow and nourish them intellectually and spiritually. We are excited to be here and deepen this ongoing relationship.

Meeting with university leads in campus life, academics, student enrollment, counselling and professional advising services, an exchange of experiences and lessons learned from  both contexts was discussed allowing for a free flow of ideas , strategies and activities that will best serve and develop students across both institutions.

Africa University Board members Bishop Tracy Smith- Malone and Bishop Julius Trimble are other distinguished leaders who have  earned degrees from G-ETS.