Director for the Center of Black Church Studies

Princeton Theological Seminary (PTSEM) is a professional and graduate school that prepares women and men to serve Jesus Christ in ministries marked by faith, integrity, scholarship, competence, compassion, and joy, equipping them for leadership worldwide in congregations and the larger church, in classrooms and the academy, and in the public arena.

The Seminary provides a residential community of worship and learning where a sense of calling is tested and defined, where scripture and the Christian tradition are appropriated critically, where faith and intellect mature and lifelong friendships begin, and where habits of discipleship are so nourished that members of the community may learn to proclaim with conviction, courage, wisdom, and love the good news that Jesus Christ is Lord.

PTSEM is seeking a Director for the Center for Black Church Studies reporting to the Senior Associate Academic Dean, providing administrative and programmatic leadership for the newly expanded Betsey Stockton Center for Black Church Studies, develop theological critical research initiatives pertaining to the history of enslavement in the U.S., and its ongoing implications, and enhance the formative experience of PTS students (and especially those of African American heritage)

 Responsibilities:

•  Direct the activities of the Betsey Stockton Center for Black Church Studies, and serve as its primary administrator.
•  Direct research initiatives pertaining to the history of enslavement in the U.S. and its ongoing implications. Expand research initiatives to examine and explore the African American experience and church leadership.
•  Organize national conferences focused on: the development of African American leadership in congregations and other ministerial contexts; research into the ongoing implications of the history of slavery for life in the U.S.
•  Organize regularly scheduled events with guest speakers for the pastoral formation, professional development, and personal enrichment of PTS students.
•  Teach courses at the invitation of the PTS faculty. Courses would be primarily related to (but not limited to) pastoral leadership in the African American context.
•  Mentor and provide regular vocational and pastoral care support for PTS students, particularly those who are African Americans.
•  Cultivate strategic relationships and partnerships with African American pastors, scholars, and community leaders.
•  Support the Association of Black Seminarians in an advisory capacity.
•  Work collegially with administrative offices throughout the seminary for the purposes of recruiting and strengthening relationships with African American alums.

 Qualifications:

• The ideal candidate will have both a M.Div. and a PhD degree.
• The ideal candidate will have extensive ministry experience in an African American context.
• Experience as both a pastor and a teaching scholar is preferred.

  Princeton Theological Seminary reserves the right to amend this position description at any time.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by the law.

For consideration, please submit a cover letter, resume and the names of three professional references to apply@ptsem.edu