Roots and Wings
Belonging roots us in who we are, in where we come from, in the people and communities that have shaped us, in connection to creation and Creator. And, belonging gives us wings—the courage to pursue righteousness, to practice right relationship, to sow justice, and to cultivate God’s beloved community.
Thandiwe Dale-Ferguson, 2026 Convocation Address
Amy Ann Northcutt Scholarship Celebration. On September 27th, DDH hosted a celebration to commemorate the full funding of the Amy Ann Northcutt scholarship. Numerous works by Chicago artist Gwen Yen Chiu were on display, and we got to hear from Gwen about her personal story and where she finds her own identity and history in her art. We also heard from Dr. Larry Bouchard about spirit: how spirit blows on everything, interacts with everything, gives everything magnitude and mutuality. Thank you to all who joined in the celebration.
Opening Chapel Service. DDH welcomed in the new academic year with an opening chapel service and the first Monday Night Dinner of the autumn quarter. We heard words of wisdom, spirit, and vulnerability from Rev. Joan Bell-Haynes as she reminded us to build community, pay attention, and be compassionate and courageous. Constant chatter, laughter, and conversation could be heard as House scholars, residents, alums, and friends sat down for dinner in the basement.
Fiyori Kidane spent her summer in Pakistan in partnership with Week of Compassion and their Summer Immersion in International Disaster Response program for Disciples Seminarians. Fiyori will be speaking about her experience in Pakistan during a Monday Night Forum on October 12.
“The Sherry Hour Project.” Invoking the spirit of Monday dinners and forums, the Alumni/ae Council kicked off the first in a series of virtual gatherings on September 14. We started the evening enjoying a Carménère wine while hearing Gary Sparks talk about Carménère's history, significance, and story. After, Sandhya Jha led a presentation and discussion on the history of religious politcal power in the USA and the potential for a resurgence of political institutional power of the religious left. The series will continue throughout the year, featuring alums as presenters and “sommeliers."
Rachel Abdoler began a new part-time position as Assistant Dean for this academic year. She will work with students to plan chapel services and programs as well as give leadership to various initiatives. Rachel is a DDH alumna and graduate of the University of Chicago Divinity School's MDiv (2017) and PhD (2026) programs.
Welcome to Lauren Blakemore, Allie Lundblad, YeChan Park, Amelia Richter, and Paulo Yánez, who have been named entering Disciples Divinity House Scholars for 2026-27. The academic year begins September 28.
