The United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities has announced the election of its first black president.
The seminary's Board of Trustees confirmed the appointment of the Rev. Barbara A. Holmes on Wednesday, according to a released statement from the school. Holmes will relocate to the Twin Cities from Memphis, Tenn., and begin her position in July.
Holmes has served in faculty and administrative positions at Memphis Theological Seminary since 1998. She is currently professor of ethics and African American religious studies and served as vice president of academic affairs and dean from 2005 to 2010.
Holmes says United's "history of ecumenical dialogue and progressive education" attracted her to the position, the statement reads. "United's commitment and its unwavering support for under-served groups match my own theological perspective," she states.
Throughout the year, the seminary located in New Brighton will be celebrating its 50th anniversary with a number of events. The anniversary will be formally celebrated at a convocation April 25-26, when retired faculty, alumni and others are invited to participate in the event.
One of five seminaries in Minnesota, the religious school has close to 200 students. It was founded by the United Church of Christ with an ecumenical mission. In addition to UCC, students from several Protestant denominations attend the seminary, which prepares them to be ordained ministers and religious scholars.
