wfn.org | PSCE and Union Theological Seminary to Federate

[PCUSA.NEWS@pcusa.org]

13-May-1997 
97202 
 
         PSCE and Union Theological Seminary to Federate 
 
                          by Deona Houff 
                   Director of Communications,  
            Presbyterian School of Christian Education 
 
RICHMOND, Va.--In concurrent May 2-3 meetings, the boards of trustees of 
the Presbyterian School of Christian Education (PSCE) and Union Theological 
Seminary in Virginia voted to federate the two institutions, pending 
approval of accrediting agencies, effective July 1, 1997. 
 
     The boards' votes unite PSCE and Union into a single institution with 
a central administration.  Nearly two years in the making, the plan for 
federation was developed by a joint committee of both boards and was 
presented to the trustees of both institutions in February of this year. 
 
     The name of the new institution, initially, will be "Union Theological 
Seminary and Presbyterian School of Christian Education." Current members 
of the Union and PSCE boards of trustees will comprise the federated 
institution's board. 
 
     The Rev. Louis B. Weeks, president of Union Theological Seminary, who 
will serve as president of the federated institution, said, "The federation 
of Union and PSCE brings together two distinguished institutions with 
excellent faculty members and students. With our combined resources, we can 
better serve Christ's church in a changing world. Our purpose, and our 
pledge to the church, is a renewed emphasis on programs and curricula that 
prepare pastoral and educational leadership who will strengthen our 
congregations." 
 
     Freda A. Gardner, a member of the PSCE board, said, "In forming this 
new institution, we are acknowledging Christian education as an integral 
part of theological education." 
 
     Weeks said, "We are grateful for the support for federation that has 
been voiced from alumni and alumnae, from congregations and individuals 
throughout the church.  Hundreds of people have prayed and worked hard for 
this moment. I know I speak for both boards in expressing our deep 
appreciation to each and every one." 
 
     The PSCE board of trustees also passed a resolution praising the 
service of Wayne G. Boulton, who departs as PSCE president June 30, 1997. 
"Wayne Boulton has been instrumental in planning federation," Dr. Weeks 
said. "He has worked hard for PSCE and for the establishment of our new 
institution.  Most important, he has helped ensure that PSCE's important 
role in the life of the church is secure. His exemplary concern and 
thoughtful leadership inspire us all." 
 
     Acknowledging the distinctive cultures of Union and PSCE, Weeks said, 
"We commit ourselves to preserving the identities and historic traditions 
of Union and of PSCE.  With federation and the new William Smith Morton 
Library, we also recommit ourselves to remaining in Richmond and to 
training ministers and educators, scholars, missionaries and chaplains for 
service in this city and elsewhere in the world." 
 
     James A. Brashler, PSCE dean of faculty, said, "I'm encouraged by the 
prospects of a new theological institution where pastors and educators are 
preparing for Christian service side by side." Brashler will remain as 
PSCE's dean of faculty in the federated institution. 

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