Special Programs & Initiatives
Turner Theological Seminary (TTS), an institution of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, has a long history of training future ecclesial leaders "for a prepared ministry" through its academic programs in theology and leadership. TTS offers a variety of Special Programs and initiatives designed to foster a holistic theological education lived experience.
The Turner Institute of Political, Religious, Spiritual, and Social Justice Advocacy (TIPRSS)
The Turner Institute of Political, Religious, Spiritual, and Social Justice Advocacy (TIPRSS) is a leadership development program for clergy and laity training for social change that affects individuals, communities, churches, and the global community. TIPRSS collaborates with numerous partners and organizations to provide programs that promote and integrate participation in equality and justice for commonly disregarded dimensions of diversity, such as politics, religion, spirituality, and social justice activism. TIPRSS assists participants in evaluating the quality and efficacy of their church's and community's social justice activities and determining how to put their faith into practice best.
Program Structure
The Turner Institute of Political, Religious, Spiritual, and Social Justice Advocacy (TIPRSS) offers a three-track program structure designed to equip participants for transformative leadership:
1. Advocacy and Activism
This track equips participants with skills to address systemic injustices through community organizing, policy influence, and advocacy. It provides practical tools to create sustainable social change and support marginalized groups.
2. Faith in Practice
This track integrates theological principles with justice efforts, helping participants align their faith with action. Through reflection and learning, it empowers them to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
3. Leadership Development
This track develops leadership skills in strategic planning, conflict resolution, and team-building. Participants learn to lead effectively, inspire others, and drive lasting change in diverse contexts.
Each track provides workshops, mentorship, and hands-on experiences to ensure participants are prepared to lead in diverse contexts and social change.
Ambassadors and Fellows Participants
TIPRSS Ambassadors serve as frontline advocates, representing the program's mission and engaging communities in justice-focused initiatives. Fellows are emerging leaders who participate in advanced training, collaborate on research projects, and develop innovative approaches to address social inequities. Together, Ambassadors and Fellows foster a network of committed change agents dedicated to advancing equality and justice in politics, religion, spirituality, and social activism.
The Reverend Jarena Lee Women Leadership Academy (JLWLA)
The Reverend Jarena Lee Women Leadership Academy (JLWLA) is a transformative leadership enrichment initiative specifically designed to empower and advance women in ministry. Inspired by the legacy of Rev. Jarena Lee, the first African American woman to publicly preach in the AME Church, JLWLA is committed to fostering the development of women leaders across diverse ministry contexts.
Program Structure
The Reverend Jarena Lee Women Leadership Academy (JLWLA) offers three dynamic tracks to empower women in ministry and leadership:
1. Rural and Small Church Ministry – Equips women serving in rural and smaller church settings with tools to address unique challenges, foster growth, and create meaningful impact in their communities.
2. Emerging Women Leaders (Under 40) – Designed for young women in ministry, this track focuses on developing bold leadership skills for modern church environments, parachurch organizations, and beyond.
3. Empowered Leadership for Women Executives – Tailored for women executives and high-potential leaders, this track enhances skills in leadership presence, workplace navigation, and innovative strategies to inspire, negotiate, and lead with greater influence and authority.
Each track provides participants with targeted strategies, mentorship, and opportunities to deepen their calling and expand their impact in diverse ministry and professional contexts.
Ambassadors and Fellows Opportunities
Participants can further engage by serving as JLWLA Ambassadors, promoting the program within their networks and mentoring new participants, or as Fellows, engaging in advanced leadership projects, research, and initiatives to advance women in ministry and leadership globally.
The Institute of Afrocentric Learning and Global Leadership (IALGL)
The Institute of Afrocentric Learning and Global Leadership (IALGL) serves as a beacon of intellectual enlightenment, blending tradition and progress. Committed to academic excellence, spiritual resilience, and global leadership, it integrates Afrocentric knowledge to bridge the gap between the church, academia, and public policy.
Program Structure
The Institute of Afrocentric Learning and Global Leadership (IALGL) mission is advanced through three tracks:
1. Faith-Rooted Leadership and Social Transformation: Addressing social justice through advocacy, policy reform, and community empowerment.
2. Global Afrocentric Thought and Leadership Development: Promoting cultural, spiritual, and diplomatic leadership through global exchanges and research.
3. Sacred Scholarship and Practical Ministry: Combining academic rigor with ministry through training in Afrocentric preaching, pastoral care, and innovative church leadership.
Each track and opportunity aims to align deeply with Turner’s mission of fostering faith-based leadership, Afrocentric excellence, and global impact.
Ambassadors and Fellows Opportunities
Participants can engage as Ambassadors by representing the Institute in global partnerships, cultural exchanges, and conferences, promoting Afrocentric leadership and theology. As Fellows, they contribute through mentorship, community impact projects, and leadership development programs, fostering innovation and social transformation.
