CTS was founded on what was once America’s western boundary. Migrants moved west and established a seminary to train church leaders. They carried hope into a new world. Throughout our history CTS has been a leader in theological education, social justice, and societal transformation.
CTS faculty and students took part in the abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad, living into an early commitment to justice and collective liberation.
From its earliest curriculum, CTS integrated theory and practice, preparing students to serve in churches and communities across the Midwest. This approach established one of the first models of field education in theological training.
As immigration reshaped the nation, CTS expanded its approach to teaching, offering theology and Bible courses in multiple languages to better serve diverse communities.
CTS became the first Congregational seminary to grant a divinity degree to a woman, Florence Fensham, advancing a commitment to gender equity in theological education.
CTS helped pioneer what would become Clinical Pastoral Education, equipping leaders to care for individuals across physical, mental, and emotional contexts.
CTS awarded the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree, recognizing his leadership in the Civil Rights movement and his work advancing justice.
In March of 1965, CTS leadership, faculty, and students joined the march in Selma, standing alongside Dr. King in the ongoing struggle for civil rights.
Under the leadership of President C. Shelby Rooks, CTS became one of the first predominantly white theological schools led by an African American president.
CTS joined the global anti-apartheid movement, advocating for divestment and honoring Archbishop Desmond Tutu for his leadership in the fight against injustice.
CTS established the LGBTQ Religious Studies Center, creating space for theological reflection, advocacy, and leadership in support of LGBTQ communities.
CTS endowed a chair in Jewish Studies, strengthening its commitment to interreligious engagement and collaboration.
CTS became the first progressive seminary accredited to offer a fully online Master of Divinity program, expanding access to theological education.
CTS launched the InterReligious Institute to deepen understanding and cooperation across religious traditions.
CTS degree program courses offered fully online.
CTS celebrates 170 years of social justice.
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The purpose that shaped CTS from the beginning continues to guide us today.
We educate leaders who advance justice, compassion, and spiritual wisdom in the world, preparing them to meet the challenges of this moment with clarity and courage.
As we look ahead, we are strengthening our programs, expanding our reach, and embracing new opportunities to extend the impact of our work.
Grounded in our commitments and guided by faith, we continue to cultivate a learning community that prepares leaders for meaningful, transformative work in the world.
Chair of the Board and Managing Partner of Kensington International, Oak Brook, IL
President and CEO of the UCC Cornerstone Fund
President of American Baptist College, Nashville, TN
President, United Church Funds (retired)
CEO of the Chicago History Museum
Senior Minister of First Congregational Church Western Springs, IL (Retired)
Pastor, Union Church of Hinsdale, Illinois
ACPE Supervisor and Director of Clinical Pastoral Education Advocate Health Care, Downers Grove, IL
Principal Attorney, Zulkie Partners LLC
Chaplain and Dean of Religious Life at Elmhurst College
President & CEO of Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement (HACE)
Transitional Conference Minister of the Missouri Mid-South Conference
General Counsel, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Senior Minister, Naples United Church of Christ
Pastor of Federated Church of Martha’s Vineyard, Edgartown, Massachusetts
Managing Partner of Operations, Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, Chicago, IL
President & Owner of Arrow Lumber Co.
Shepherd Bueschel & Provus, Inc. (Retired)
Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference, Inc.
Partner & Founder of Clark & DeGrande and General Counsel for the United Church of Christ (Retired)
