This article is part III of a series on how to afford seminary. For previous articles in this series, see How Can I Afford Seminary and Equipping Ministers Through Stark Scholarships.
One of Stark College & Seminary’s core values is multiculturalism. We recognize the importance and worth of each person and culture, and are committed to fostering diversity and representation in Christian leadership. Part of this commitment includes offering specially designed scholarships that support a wide array of students from various backgrounds, empowering them to realize their leadership potential and serve according to their calling.
Students are encouraged to apply for these scholarships, which can significantly offset the cost of tuition beyond the affordable rates Stark offers. To be considered for all scholarships, students only need to complete the Stark Financial Aid Application found on our website. Based on their application responses, they will automatically be considered for scholarships fitting their situation.
The scholarships listed below are designed to support students who are passionate about serving in ministry, as well as to increase representation among underrepresented groups in ministry. By providing scholarships to underrepresented groups, our goal is to nurture a Christian ministerial community that reflects the richness found in God’s creation.
Scholarships Dedicated for Underrepresented Ministry Groups
- Jack Bourland Family Legacy Scholarship: Jack Bourland was a pastor and enthusiastic learner. This is a special scholarship intended to encourage those who are in financial need and are age 65 and older.
- Dr. Harold T. Branch African American Scholarship: Dr. Branch pastored St. John Baptist Church in Corpus Christi and was a local civic leader. Recipients of this scholarship are African American pastors or ministers. Watch this video to learn more about Dr. Harold T. Branch, whose influence continues to inspire us at Stark.
- Ygnacio G. Moreno Encouraging and Equipping Scholarship: The Moreno Scholarship supports students and gives special consideration for those with diagnosed learning disorders, physical handicaps, and/or financial need. Read more about Pastor Arnold Moreno and his wife Deborah who established this scholarship.
- Gus & Gloria Reyes Hispanic Leadership Scholarship: Gus and Gloria Reyes devoted their life to their church and community. Recipients of this scholarship are of Hispanic heritage and are leaders in their church and community.
- Smith-Jenkins Legacy Scholarship: Jack Castleton Smith, Calib Lee Jenkins, and Forrest Smith taught four values: God, family, hard work, and education. Recipients of this scholarship seek to better themselves through education and hard work.
- Stephenson Legacy Scholarship (Women in Ministry): In honor of James Davis “JD” Stephenson and Edna Ballard Stephenson, this scholarship is for women who presently serve or strive to serve in ministry in the local church. Read more about Lois Ann Stephenson who established this scholarship.
At Stark, we want to see the Kingdom represented by ministry leaders of all ages, genders, ethnicities, and abilities. It is our aim for these scholarships to help make quality training accessible, so ministry leaders of many backgrounds can bless the church. We believe this addresses the Bible’s desire for Christians to value people of all backgrounds as created in the image of God, and unite everyone under the love of Christ.
Furthermore, this value of diversity creates a rich learning environment in which students can learn to love one another as God does, and be open to different perspectives and people. This in turn leads to a healthier local church where congregations understand the value of multiculturalism, and learn how to be in community with an ever changing population.