Dear Friends,
Today I begin a new partnership with each of you as dean of Candler School of Theology. I do so with gratitude, joy, and a clear sense of responsibility.
Dean Terrence L. (Kojo) Johnson
My gratitude begins with God and my family for their enduring love and support: my mother, second father, brother, wife, and children, as well as the ancestors whose sacrifices and example made this moment possible. The prayers of my godparents and the “mothers of the church” have sustained me for over 25 years, most notably from the historic Charles Street AME (Roxbury, Mass.), Allen AME (Providence, RI), and Mother Bethel AME (Philadelphia).
I am also grateful to Provost Badia Ahad for the trust she has placed in me, and to the search committee co-chairs, Professors Kimberly Jacob Arriola and Ian A. McFarland, Bishop William T. (Bill) McAlilly, and the entire search committee for their collegiality and care throughout the process.
I am fortunate to inherit a school with a strong foundation. Former dean Jonathan Strom’s thoughtful and pastoral leadership strengthened the Candler community and advanced the school’s scholarly and ministerial mission. Over the last several months, Jonathan has offered wise counsel and generous support throughout my transition. During this transition, he has become a friend and trusted conversation partner. I also want to acknowledge former dean Jan Love, whose transformative leadership at Candler for nearly eighteen years left an enduring institutional legacy.
That legacy reminds me that leadership begins with listening, learning, and earning trust. During my first months as dean, I will meet with members of the Candler community, listen closely to your experiences and aspirations, and deepen my understanding of the school’s strengths, challenges, and aspirations. I welcome your candid counsel and ideas about how we can build upon Candler’s distinctive character and mission.
I [marked] my first day by gathering with Candler’s staff for a celebratory luncheon. Their strategic partnership with faculty and their daily support of students and alumni make the work of the school possible. Beginning with them reflects both my gratitude and conviction that Candler’s future will be shaped by the contributions of the entire community.
As I begin this work, please pray for me, specifically for wisdom, discernment, and good health, and I will also pray for you.
I look forward to working with each you to advance Candler’s scholarly, ministerial, and public mission.
With gratitude,
Terrence L. (Kojo) Johnson, PhD
Mary Lee Hardin Willard Dean
Candler School of Theology
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Read more about Dean Johnson in Emory News.
