Shaw University Divinity School Receives $1 Million Grant to Expand Digital Theological Education Across North Carolina

RALEIGH, N.C. — Shaw University Divinity School is expanding access to theological education with the support of a $1 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. The five year grant will help the Divinity School create a statewide network of digital academies designed to bring graduate level theological education directly to churches and ministry leaders throughout North Carolina.

The funding comes through Lilly Endowment’s Thriving Congregations Initiative and will support partnerships with more than 40 congregational associations to establish local digital learning communities. The program will provide church leaders with accessible opportunities for ministry training, leadership development, certificate programs, and congregational renewal.

Through an advanced online learning platform, participants will have access to live instruction, self paced courses, peer discussions, and practical resources while continuing to serve within their local congregations.

Over the next five years, the initiative is expected to engage between 800 and 1,000 church leaders while creating pathways for participants to continue their education through advanced graduate programs at Shaw University Divinity School.

“A localized digital academy approach to accessible theological training will help strengthen congregations as future learning communities,” said Dr. Mark G. Harden, dean of Shaw University Divinity School.

The initiative reflects Shaw’s continued commitment to preparing faith leaders with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to serve evolving communities while expanding educational opportunities beyond traditional classroom settings.

Church and ministry leaders interested in participating in the program can contact Rev. Dr. Saundra Williams at saundra.williams@shawu.edu.

About Shaw University

Founded in 1865, Shaw University is the first Historically Black College and University established in the South. The university’s mission is to advance knowledge, support student achievement, strengthen spiritual and ethical values, and prepare a diverse community of learners to become future global leaders. Shaw University is led by President Dr. Paulette R. Dillard.

About Shaw University Divinity School

For more than 90 years, Shaw University Divinity School has prepared spiritual and ethical leaders for service in churches, nonprofit organizations, education, healthcare, business, and public life. The Divinity School offers the Master of Divinity, the Master of Arts in Theology and Ministry, and beginning in Spring 2027, the Doctor of Education in Artificial Intelligence and Moral Agency.