Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

"The critical task of Garrett-Evangelical is to deliberately, systematically, and creatively work to make of its own life a microcosm of the kind of world of racial interaction which Christian faith demands at this point in history." The social and theological charge embodied in these words of CBE's first director, Dr. Hycel B. Taylor, ring true to the present generation, 40 years later.

CBE was launched in the fall of 1970 following the Board of Trustee's acceptance of a proposal asking for the creation of a program that would address the particular needs of Black students preparing for ministry. The proposal was put forward by Black students and Bishop Edsel Ammons, faculty emeritus and trustee. CBE's existence was undergirded by the seminary's commitment to support the Center, not as a separate program, but as an integral part of the seminary's overall mission.

Under Dr. Taylor's guidance, CBE aimed to recruit and retain Black students, to hire Black faculty, and to add courses that would specifically address the needs of Black students and the Black Church. By the 1980s, CBE's presence on campus as a transformative agent in the lives of students and faculty was established.

Today, the fruits of CBE's labor are evident throughout the seminary. Seven endowed scholarship funds have been created to ensure that financial assistance is available to incoming Black students; and numerous events and conferences are held each year for the seminary community. Courses taught by CBE faculty are open to all students and offer opportunities for understanding Christian faith through interracial and cross-cultural perspectives. Of the 80 graduates of the Class of 2010, 16 identified themselves as "African-American."Graduates have distinguished themselves as capable pastors and Christian educators; denominational officers, including eight bishops; professors of religion and administrators in higher education; noted authors; and effective community leaders. Their mission remains strong and clear: to empower and train persons for the African American religious community and society-at-large.