Empowering prophetic leaders for faithful, justice-driven ministry in Black communities.
Rooted in the long and living legacy of the Black Church, the Center for African American Ministries and Black Church Studies at McCormick Theological Seminary nurtures seminarians, clergy, and lay leaders preparing for or engaged in ministry within Black church contexts.
Through rigorous coursework, transformative public events, and deep community partnerships, the Center equips faith leaders to navigate the evolving spiritual, social, and practical needs of Black congregations and communities.
MEET THE DIRECTOR
Rev. Dr. Stacey L. Edwards-Dunn brings a powerful blend of pastoral leadership, public health expertise, and prophetic vision to her role as Director of the Center for African American Ministries and Black Church Studies. A McCormick alumna and ordained minister, she also serves as Executive Pastor at Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago.
With advanced degrees in chemistry, biology, divinity, public health, and a Doctor of Ministry from McCormick, she leads with an interdisciplinary approach rooted in faith and service. Her experience spans reproductive health education, nonprofit leadership, and congregational ministry, all deeply connected to Black community empowerment.
She is also the founder of Fertility for Colored Girls, a national organization supporting women of color navigating infertility and reproductive health challenges. Her work offers healing, advocacy, and spiritual care to individuals and families on their fertility journey.
Whether preaching, mentoring, or spending time with her partner, Mr. Earl Dunn, Sr., and their family, Dr. Edwards-Dunn leads with heart and purpose. As Director of the Center, she brings a rare combination of scholarly insight and real-world impact to shape the next generation of Black Church leaders.
ACADEMIC FORMATION
We sponsor a dynamic slate of courses, lectures, and learning experiences that support students’ curricular and co-curricular engagement with Black church traditions, prophetic theology, and practical ministry.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Our work extends beyond the seminary walls. We partner with clergy, community organizations, and faith leaders to address pressing issues like public health disparities (including HIV/AIDS), celebrate multicultural excellence, and host signature events such as:
Annual Clergy/Lay Leadership Prayer Breakfast
Annual Multicultural Graduation Celebration
Ongoing Public Forums and Special Lectures
COURSE CATEGORIES
THE BLACK CHURCH STUDIES CERTIFICATE
Study. Reimagine. Lead.
The Black Church Studies Certificate gathers prophetic, compassionate leaders and renowned religious scholars to guide students through the rich theological and historical foundations of the Black Church. Designed with flexibility for working professionals, this certificate program prepares students to retool ministry practices for today’s complex realities.
Program Highlights:
Choose one or more courses or design a full certificate pathway
Classes meet one Friday evening and Saturday per month, over four consecutive months
Six courses are required to complete the certificate
Flexible enrollment allows students to register for one or two courses per semester
THE HIV/AIDS CLERGY & LAY LEADERSHIP SUMMIT
Hosted annually by the Center for Black Church Studies at McCormick Theological Seminary, this summit was founded in 2004 by Sylvia Jo Oglesby, a dedicated public advocate for HIV/AIDS education and community empowerment.
The gathering equips pastors, lay leaders, and community outreach workers with the knowledge, skills, and resources to respond faithfully and effectively to the realities of HIV/AIDS within their congregations and neighborhoods.
Through up-to-date education, practical strategies, and best practices, the summit helps faith communities reduce HIV/AIDS infections, combat stigma, and promote holistic health and healing.
MEET THE INSTRUCTORS
Learn from esteemed leaders in ministry, theology, and community impact:
Ready to Learn More?
Whether you’re a seasoned minister, a community activist, or a lay leader answering a call, the Center for African American Ministries and Black Church Studies is here to equip you with the tools, theology, and vision to serve faithfully and boldly.
Priscilla Rodriquez,
Coordinator