Inspiring spiritual leadership

A $1 million commitment from an anonymous SMU donor will empower students within the Perkins School of Theology as they study to become spiritual leaders and scholars. Providing funds for both endowed and current-use scholarships, the gift will support the Perkins School’s mission to prepare students for faithful leadership in an ever-changing world and to instill a deeper understanding of the Christian faith.

“When donors give to current-use or endowed funds that provide financial aid to students, their generosity helps shape the world changers of tomorrow,” said SMU President R. Gerald Turner. “We thank this donor for helping existing and new students as they seek to become devoted leaders in their professions and lives.”

The gift includes $500,000 toward an endowment to support students who are part of the North Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church. The gift also includes $500,000 for current-use scholarships for North Texas Conference certified candidates on track to become deacons or elders in the church. By making both gifts, the donor will create an immediate impact for current students and support future students in perpetuity.

“At Perkins, we seek to fund as much of the expense as possible so our graduates go into ministry with minimum educational debt,” said Michael McKee, Perkins School of Theology dean ad interim. “We are grateful to all donors who give our students the financial freedom to pursue their callings.”