Walker Adams, Director of Recruitment and Admission

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.

The Reverend David C. Cobb, D.Min., Director of Contextual Education

After 30 years of parish ministry, and almost that many as a field education supervisor, it is a great joy to be working with seminarians as they prepare for and engage with the wide range of contextual education that Sewanee offers. In field education and CPE, years of discernment and the demands of a challenging theological education find their fruition as a seminarian begins to practice the work of ministry in parish or chaplaincy. Supporting the wonderful parish clergy who serve as mentors and supporting the work of the Advanced Degree Program means I get to work with an amazing group of clergy and leaders in our Church.

Mary Ann Patterson, Director of Publications and Media Relations, Editor of From the Mountain, Managing Editor of the Sewanee Theological Review

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.

Connie Patton, Director of Operations and Financial Aid

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.

Bess Turner, Director of Development, Alumni, and Church Relations

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.

Graff Wilson, Administrative Assistant to the Dean

As a cradle Episcopalian, working at the School of Theology has been a tremendous opportunity. It’s a privilege to get to work with not only The Episcopal Church and the University of the South, but to share in the development of the emerging leaders from this institution.