University of La Verne to Play Key Role in $10 Million Initiative Expanding Pathways to Ministry and Graduate Theological Education

University of La Verne to Play Key Role in $10 Million Initiative Expanding Pathways to Ministry and Graduate Theological Education

$10M Grant Awarded to Bethany Theological Seminary by Lilly Endowment opens new opportunities for ULV Students. (ULV photo/Jeanine Hill)

New Brethren Higher Education Consortium will expand early access to graduate-level theological study for undergraduate nationwide.

The University of La Verne will take a leading role in a major national initiative to broaden pathways into ministry and graduate theological studies, made possible by a $10 million grant awarded to Bethany Theological Seminary by Lilly Endowment Inc.

The grant will establish the Brethren Higher Education Consortium, a collaborative network connecting Bethany with ULV, Bridgewater College, Elizabethtown College, Manchester University, McPherson College, and Juniata College.

As part of the initiative, ULV will participate in UP@Bethany, a new program that enables juniors and seniors from consortium institutions to enroll in Bethany's graduate-level courses before completing their undergraduate degrees. All courses will be offered through Bethany's distance-learning format.

"The University of La Verne is proud to serve as a key partner in this initiative," said Risa Dickson, president of ULV. "As one of the largest and most diverse institutions in this consortium, the university will play a vital role in shaping student engagement and cultivating interest in advanced theological study."

The Lilly Endowment is a private foundation based in Indianapolis, Indiana that supports community development, education, and religious causes. The grant is part of its Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative, which supports efforts to strengthen theological education and prepare future pastoral leaders.

Of the total grant, $5 million will provide immediate funding to launch the consortium and associated programs. Bethany Theological Seminary must raise an additional $3 million from other donors to unlock $5 million in matching funds from Lilly Endowment.