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Dr. Theodore T. Turman Marks His First Anniversary as President of Ecumenical Theological Seminary

November 12, 2025

Dr. Theodore T. Turman has completed his first year as the seventh president of Ecumenical Theological Seminary in Detroit, focusing on connecting theological education with urban community needs. His leadership style emphasizes collaboration and listening while strengthening partnerships between the seminary and local organizations throughout the city.

Who is affected

  • Dr. Theodore T. Turman (ETS's seventh president)
  • ETS students and faculty
  • Local Detroit congregations, universities, and nonprofits partnering with ETS
  • Dr. Deborah Smith Pollard (professor and gospel radio host being honored)
  • Marty Fischhoff (Director of Community Engagement for Detroit PBS being honored)
  • Gala attendees and the broader Detroit faith community

What action is being taken

  • Dr. Turman is deepening ETS's partnerships with local congregations, universities, and nonprofits
  • The seminary is updating programs and expanding partnerships
  • ETS is hosting its annual gala on November 14, 2025, at The Henry Hotel in Dearborn
  • The institution is experiencing rising enrollment and forming new partnerships

Why it matters

  • This matters because it represents a strategic shift in how theological education engages with urban communities, particularly in Detroit. Dr. Turman's emphasis on connecting classroom learning with real-world service addresses the practical needs of urban ministry while strengthening ETS's role as a community anchor. His leadership style and vision are helping redefine what it means for a seminary to serve both spiritual and civic purposes in a major American city, potentially creating a model for other urban theological institutions.

What's next

  • The annual gala will take place on Friday, November 14, 2025, at The Henry Hotel in Dearborn
  • ETS is preparing to enter a new academic year
  • Conversations about faith and justice will continue to take center stage at the seminary

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle