United Honors Rev. Dr. Mike Slaughter at Spring Commencement

June 3, 2016

United Theological Seminary held its Spring Commencement on May 20, 2016, at Ginghamsburg United Methodist Church, Tipp City, OH. Rev. Dr. Michael Slaughter, Senior Pastor at Ginghamsburg and 1990 graduate of United, delivered the commencement address to the class of 75 students and received the honorary Doctor of Divinity degree in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the church during his four decades in ministry.

Presenting the honorary degree, Dr. Kent Millard, interim president of United, highlighted Slaughter’s impact in the areas of church renewal, church planting and missional outreach in the Dayton area and around the world.

In a welcome to graduates and guests, Rev. Dr. Rosario Picardo ’14, Executive Pastor of New Church Development at Ginghamsburg Church, noted the impact United has had in training pastors such as Slaughter and himself.

“We’ve seen United Theological Seminary train pastors to go out into the world, but we’ve also seen Ginghamsburg Church make disciples for the transformation of the world,” Picardo said. “Three of [Ginghamsburg’s] pastors are alum of United Theological Seminary, so we are grateful for the influence and the involvement the seminary has had on our church — and not only our church but churches around the nation.”

During the ceremony, the Seminary also presented special awards to 16 students, both current and graduating.

To watch the entire Spring Commencement ceremony, click here.

United Theological Seminary is a graduate professional school of The United Methodist Church offering masters and doctoral theological degrees and continuing education with programs offered on campus and online. United’s goal is to educate dynamic, Spirit-led leaders who will renew the church for the mission of Jesus Christ in the world.