Payne Alumni Relations

06/19/2026

Today, Payne Theological Seminary joins communities across the nation in celebrating Juneteenth Freedom Day—a commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States and a reminder that freedom, justice, and human dignity remain sacred responsibilities.

As an institution committed to faith, education, and liberation, Payne stands firmly in the ongoing work of advancing freedom for all people.

The Pan-African colors often associated with this observance carry deep meaning:
🔴 Red symbolizes the blood shed in the struggle for freedom.
⚫ Black represents the strength, resilience, and identity of people of African descent.
🟢 Green signifies hope, growth, and the promise of a flourishing future.

On this Juneteenth, we honor the sacrifices of those who came before us and recommit ourselves to building a more just and equitable world.

06/12/2026

🎓 Congratulations to the Payne Theological Seminary Spring 2026 Dean's List Scholars! 🎓

We are proud to recognize the students whose academic excellence has earned them a place on the Dean's List for Spring 2026.

To achieve this distinction, students earned a semester GPA of 3.5 or higher while completing at least 12 credit hours. Their dedication, discipline, and commitment to theological education reflect the highest standards of scholarship and leadership.

Your Payne family celebrates your hard work and perseverance. As you continue your journey of learning, leading, and serving, may your achievements inspire others to pursue excellence in ministry, scholarship, and faith.

Join us in congratulating our Spring 2026 Dean's List honorees! 👏

06/05/2026

At Payne Theological Seminary, we are thrilled to announce a season of significant milestones! With the election of Dr. Betty W. Holley as our first graduate President, the success of the Class of 2026, and the new SGA officers stepping up, our commitment to leadership and service is stronger than ever. Join us in celebrating these achievements and our dedication to faith, justice, and liberation.

https://conta.cc/4uCcOOB

Email from Payne Seminary From Commencement to cultural legacy—see how Payne is shaping leaders, honoring excellence, and building the future.     From the Director’s Chair  Rev. Dr. Kathleen M. Wr

06/05/2026

📖 Payne Proud!

Congratulations to Payne Theological Seminary alumnus and AME Church Judicial Council member Derek Anderson on the publication of his article, "The Hidden Jewel in Plain Sight," in The Christian Recorder.

In this inspiring piece, Derek highlights the transformative ministry, faithful leadership, and vibrant witness of a congregation making a meaningful impact in its community. His reflections remind us that some of the most powerful examples of ministry are often found where faith, service, and spiritual commitment intersect.

We celebrate Derek's continued contributions to the Church through thoughtful scholarship, leadership, and storytelling.

Read the article and be inspired:

🔗 Link in bio or below.
“The Hidden Gem in Plain Sight”

06/05/2026

🎉 Congratulations to Payne Theological Seminary Doctor of Ministry student and Stellar Award-winning recording artist Ernest Pugh on the release of his inspiring new book, A Song for Every Season!
Drawing from a lifetime of ministry, music, and faith, this powerful new work offers encouragement, reflection, and spiritual insight for every chapter of life. We celebrate Ernest's continued commitment to sharing God's message through song, story, and written word.
Join us in congratulating Ernest on this exciting accomplishment and support his newest release!
For more information about the book and Ernest Pugh's ministry, visit Ernest Pugh's official website ernestpugh.com

06/01/2026

📣 Join the Payne Family in Orlando!

Payne Theological Seminary invites you to the Alumni and Friends Breakfast during the African Methodist Episcopal Church General Board Meeting at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando, Florida.

📅 Tuesday, June 23, 2026
⏰ 7:30 a.m.

This special gathering will bring together alumni, friends, supporters, and members of the Payne community for a morning of fellowship, inspiration, and celebration of Payne’s enduring legacy of leadership, liberation, and theological education.

🎤 Guest Speaker:
Rev. Dr. Ronald Slaughter
Pastor, St. James AME Church – Newark, NJ

🎟 Advance Tickets:
$100 Individual
$750 Table of Eight (8)

Scan the QR code or click the link to purchase tickets today!

05/26/2026

History has been made in the Delaware Annual Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church!

Payne Theological Seminary proudly celebrates alumna Rev. Dr. Jacquita Wright-Henderson on her appointment as Presiding Elder of the Wilmington District — becoming the first woman ever to serve in this role in the DEAC.

A daughter of Bethel AME Church in Wilmington, Delaware, Rev. Dr. Wright-Henderson’s appointment is both historic and deeply inspiring. Her leadership, scholarship, faithfulness, and commitment to the Church continue to open doors for future generations of women in ministry.

We also extend heartfelt gratitude to Presiding Elder J. Stanley Justice and Consultant Darlene Justice for their faithful and impactful leadership of the Wilmington District since 2022.

Congratulations, Dr. Wright-Henderson! Payne Seminary celebrates this extraordinary milestone with you. To God be the glory!

05/25/2026

History has been made in the Delaware Annual Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church!

Payne Theological Seminary proudly celebrates alumna Rev. Dr. Jacquita Wright-Henderson on her appointment as Presiding Elder of the Wilmington District — becoming the first woman ever to serve in this role in the DEAC.

A daughter of Bethel AME Church in Wilmington, Delaware, Rev. Dr. Wright-Henderson’s appointment is both historic and deeply inspiring. Her leadership, scholarship, faithfulness, and commitment to the Church continue to open doors for future generations of women in ministry.

We also extend heartfelt gratitude to Presiding Elder J. Stanley Justice and Consultant Darlene Justice for their faithful and impactful leadership of the Wilmington District since 2022.

Congratulations, Dr. Wright-Henderson! Payne Seminary celebrates this extraordinary milestone with you. To God be the glory!

05/24/2026

🎉 Congratulations to the 2026–2027 Student Government Association Officers at Payne Theological Seminary! 🎉

Please join us in celebrating the newly elected student leaders who will serve the Payne community during the upcoming academic year:

✨ PRESIDENT
Yolanda Corbin

✨ VICE PRESIDENT – MARL
Robert Wright

✨ VICE PRESIDENT – DMIN
Rosalind Godwin

✨ SECRETARY
Tonya McClary

✨ TREASURER
Dontae Foote

✨ CHAPLAIN
Sharon Harris

We look forward to the leadership, vision, and service the SGA will bring to the Payne community in the year ahead.

Please keep these leaders in your prayers as they prepare to serve and represent the student body.

05/24/2026

History has been made in the Delaware Annual Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church!

Payne Theological Seminary proudly celebrates alumna Rev. Dr. Jacquita Wright-Henderson on her appointment as Presiding Elder of the Wilmington District — becoming the first woman ever to serve in this role in the DEAC.

A daughter of Bethel AME Church in Wilmington, Delaware, Rev. Dr. Wright-Henderson’s appointment is both historic and deeply inspiring. Her leadership, scholarship, faithfulness, and commitment to the Church continue to open doors for future generations of women in ministry.

We also extend heartfelt gratitude to Presiding Elder J. Stanley Justice and Consultant Darlene Justice for their faithful and impactful leadership of the Wilmington District since 2022.

Congratulations, Dr. Wright-Henderson! Payne Seminary celebrates this extraordinary milestone with you. To God be the glory!

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