SHAw University Divinity School Recieves Grant

Shaw University News - RALEIGH, N.C. — A $1 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. will help Shaw University Divinity School reimagine how theological education reaches Black congregations across North Carolina by bringing graduate-level learning directly into local churches through a statewide network of digital academies.

Shaw University Divinity School has received a $1 million, five-year Scaling Grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to expand its Thriving Congregations Initiative. The grant will support partnerships with more than 40 congregational associations to establish localized digital academies that deliver accessible, high-quality graduate-level theological education through online learning communities.

Using an advanced learning platform, each academy will offer ministry formation, leadership development, certificate programs, peer learning, and practical training in congregational renewal. Participants can learn in live and self-paced formats while remaining active in their local congregations.

Over five years, the initiative is expected to engage 800 to 1,000 church leaders and create pathways into advanced graduate degree programs at Shaw University Divinity School.