The Castañeda-Jennings Scholarship Fund
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The Theodore Jennings Legacy
A gifted theologian and educator, the late Professor Emeritus Theodore Jennings taught for more than 30 years at Chicago Theological Seminary. He was an inspiring and passionate teacher who gave witness to God’s justice and mercy for generations of students. Professor Jennings’s theology was one of radical hospitality and welcoming of others, especially those at society’s margins.
Professor Jennings was deeply concerned about international students’ welfare who were often isolated and vulnerable while living outside their home countries. For decades, he visited and lectured in many countries around the world, helping form and sustain local movements against homophobia.
About the Scholarship Fund
In 1994, Professor Jennings and his wife, CTS alumna Rev. Ronna Case, established the Gilberto Castañeda Scholarship in loving memory of their adopted son, Gilberto Castañeda. Each year, the Castañeda Award is given to students who embody the vision and values of the LGBTQ religious studies program. To continue Professor Jennings’s legacy, CTS is committed to growing the Castañeda-Jennings Scholarship and providing scholarship support to LGBTQ and ally students into perpetuity.
With a new goal of $275,000 in funding, CTS will be able to award a $15,000 per year scholarship, covering full tuition for many of our students. The endowment would also provide for one $1,500 cash award each year to a student who demonstrates a commitment to transforming the church and public square toward the full inclusion of the LGBTQ community.
These scholars will be Leaders for the Next, helping forge the role of religion in the church and public square around the world. To participate in funding the endowed scholarship, please contact Chad Schwickerath, Interim Vice President for Advancement at [email protected] or 773.896.2434.