Candler’s La Mesa Academy for Theological Studies welcomed its first-ever cohort of 28 students to campus from August 12-16 for an in-person residency, intended to connect them more deeply to Candler, Emory, Atlanta, and one another ahead of pursuing their online degree.
During the residency, La Mesa students took part in Q&A sessions with Candler faculty and other distinguished scholars, including Mary Lee Hardin Willard Dean Jonathan Strom, Associate Deans Teresa Fry Brown and Ted Smith, and renowned theologian Justo L. González, who taught at Candler from 1969-1978. They also met with the staffs of Pitts Theology Library and Candler’s Office of Digital Learning to learn about the resources that will support their studies.
The cohort also ventured outside of Emory, exploring Atlanta landmarks such as the National Center for Civil and Human Rights and the historic Sweet Auburn neighborhood. The group also visited ReMerge, an Atlanta-based organization that brings stakeholders and neighbors together to accelerate belonging and flourishing in local communities.
La Mesa Academy for Theological Studies is a two-year diploma program emphasizing a multicultural approach, designed for those whose traditions do not require a master’s degree for ordination. Learn more about La Mesa.