Senior Administration

I am simultaneously astonished and yet somehow not surprised to find myself here at the University of the South, a place one might argue is THE Episcopal center for learning. One the one hand, I’m a layperson working at a seminary which sometimes gives people pause. On the other hand, I was born and raised in The Episcopal church, went to an Episcopal day school, have worked for Episcopal institutions, and have a degree in theology from this very place. Around here we like to say that “theological education is the birthright of all the baptized.” As a lay person, I am proud and grateful for all the University has done, and is doing, to help advance theological education for the whole Church.

I have served as rector of Thankful Memorial Episcopal Church, Chattanooga, Tennessee, for more than a decade. It has, and continues to be, the best privilege of my ordained vocation to serve with and among the good people of that congregation in mutual ministry and formation. Now, I am pleased to be able to bring the lessons I have learned as a parochial small-parish priest to bear in this new role. Having mentored almost a dozen seminarians over the years, I am eager for the opportunity to support more students even more broadly as they discern their own vocations and grow more fully into their particular calls for ministry. I am excited to collaborate with my colleagues in the halls of academia and the worshiping communities of the Church to help develop some of the Church's next priests and leaders.

Years ago, when I was seeking a seminary to attend, I fell in love with the School of Theology at Sewanee. It was certainly the right place for me as a seminarian and now I am thrilled to be back and in a role that allows me to assist others in their formation for ministry. In my role as associate dean for community life, I work closely with students and their families to connect them with a variety of resources that can enhance their seminary experience. I also collaborate with faculty, staff, and others as needed to help provide an environment of seamless pastoral care and support. I am passionate about overseeing key aspects of community life for students — from new student orientation to deployment assistance for upcoming graduates. It is an exciting time to be at Sewanee, and an honor to facilitate community building that equips church leaders to do the ministry to which they have been called.

I was drawn to Sewanee after graduating from the Education for Ministry program at my local church in Hume, Va. The opportunity to live, and continue to learn, in such a beautiful place was one that I couldn't resist. Sharing wonderful stories and exciting news has always been a passion of mine and I consider my position at the School of Theology as having provided me with the chance to tell the best story of all.

Family is my deepest passion, and I am committed to do what I can to make good things happen for them. I approach my work with that same philosophy by doing what I can to enhance the learning experience for students and the work environment for colleagues. I enjoy my work as part of a caring community, working together to equip leaders for ministry.

I had the good fortune to grow up as an Episcopalian in the Diocese of Alabama, a place I still consider home. At eight years old, I discovered Camp McDowell where I saw a glimpse of the way the world could be. Camp served as a backdrop as I developed some of my most meaningful and foundational relationships. It was at camp that I realized that I am a beloved child of God. I consider it an act of grace that I’m now able to play a small role in forming the future leaders of the church so that others might have opportunities to experience the gift of God’s love.