As we step into 2025, Higher Education & Leadership Ministries (HELM) is excited to focus on growth and connection under the theme “Bringing Students and Resources Together.” Our mission is to be the premier landing place for students from high school through post-graduate studies, offering them the support and resources they need to succeed.
We are thrilled to announce several key initiatives that will propel our ministry forward among Disciples and ecumenical partners this year:
First and foremost, we are pleased to announce that all scholarships are now open and accessible online! This is an exceptional opportunity for students to secure financial support for their educational journeys. Additionally, our 2025 Youth Leadership Symposium (YLS) cohort is in full swing, featuring 16 high school youth alongside dedicated adult leaders, speakers, and mentors. To learn more about the Youth Leadership Symposium, visit youthleadershipsymposium.org.
In an exciting development, we are proud to unveil a historic partnership between HELM, Disciples Overseas Ministries/Global Ministries, and Week of Compassion. This collaboration will enrich our undergraduate Leadership Fellows and new Emerging Clergy Theological Fellow cohorts with invaluable global leadership educational experiences throughout the year. We are launching an intentional training program for seminarians and alternative track emerging clergy, focused on global relations, theology, and ministry. This cohort will engage in online learning and travel experiences to build relationships with our partners abroad. Interested candidates can apply for this scholarship-based opportunity through the HELM website.
As we celebrate the arrival of a new year, we also welcome new members to our Board: Rev. Dr. Peter Goodwin Heltzel, Rev. Dr. Jose Francisco Morales, and Rev. Dr. Doug Searcy, who will serve as the Chair of the Council on Colleges & Universities. We extend our gratitude to those who completed their service on our Board at the end of 2024, including Sarah Little, Rev. Dr. Lester Newman, and Pam Sparks. Their significant contributions have profoundly impacted HELM and the life of the church, and we sincerely thank them for their dedication.
HELM remains committed to stewarding financial resources to develop and support student leadership, and in this spirit, we are pleased to share our strengthened partnership with the Christian Church Foundation (CCF). Moving forward, HELM’s investments will be collaboratively managed with CCF, and we express our appreciation for those who have faithfully stewarded these impactful resources thus far.
Looking ahead, HELM is dedicated to nurturing leadership for “a time such as this.” We celebrate students who possess a well-rounded background grounded in community and faith, equipping them to become thoughtful, socially just, and compassionate leaders. Together, let us embark on this exciting journey in 2025, as we continue to empower the next generation of church and community leaders!
Rev. Dr. Tamara Nichols Rodenberg
President
Higher Education & Leadership Ministries