04/14/2026
We are incredibly excited to announce that Rev. Dr. Lisa Thompson will serve as Union Theological Seminary's 17th President.
An internationally recognized theological scholar and academic, vocal social justice advocate, executive, and faith leader, Dr. Thompson brings 20 years of experience advancing mission-driven initiatives across higher education, government, and the private sector.
Born to parents who grew up as sharecroppers, Dr. Thompson’s life was shaped by a lineage that believed in brighter, more abundant futures. From an early age, she understood education as an expansive practice of freedom and committed to a lifetime of learning and teaching from the contexts of the world around us.
Dr. Thompson earned degrees from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Fuller Theological Seminary, and Vanderbilt University, and has taught at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, Vanderbilt and Union. Throughout her career, Dr. Thompson has also produced significant scholarship grounded in Womanist and Black Feminist epistemologies.
Dr. Thompson believes deeply in the power of multireligious and interreligious engagement, and has a long record of working with people of different faith traditions. She also brings years of outspoken advocacy for justice within and outside the academy to Union – crucial experience as our school navigates unprecedented global and political crises.
Dr. Thompson, who will begin her presidency on July 1, 2026, was selected by a diverse search committee of board members, alumni, students, staff, and faculty. The committee members spoke highly of Dr. Thompson’s work ethic, theological credentials, creativity, bold spirit, and vision for the future of Union.
As Rev. Dr. Serene Jones steps down from the presidency after an extraordinary 18-year legacy, we are grateful to have Dr. Thompson to lead our seminary into its next chapter. Please join us in welcoming the exceptional Dr. Thompson back to Union!
