PSU Department of Philosophy, Religion & Letters

Philander Smith University Our mission is to graduate academically accomplished students, grounded as advocates for social justice, determined to change the world for the better.

PSU Thriving in Ministry Cohort Presents: Marriage & Family Life of the Leader — an 8-week transformational journey led by Dr. Earl Graham.
Discover how to lead well at home and in ministry. Learn to balance marriage, family, and calling with wisdom, rest, and purpose.

Dr. Shannon Clowney Johnson (Vice President of Academic Affairs and CAO) and Dr. Earl Graham (Chair, Department of Philosophy & Religion) attended the 2025 Thriving In Ministry Annual Gathering in Indianapolis, Indiana. PSU was represented among hundreds of other colleges, universities, churches and religious organizations.

The gathering helped to strengthen PSU’s efforts toward empowering rural and urban local pastors as we sustain our grant program for the upcoming year.

Join YLSI YOUNG LEADERS SUMMER INSTITUTE A free, nonpartisan, and virtual program for the next generation of civic leaders. ABOUT THE PROGRAM STRUCTURE + ELIGIBILITY CURRICULUM APPLY NOW Apply by March 23, 2025 for priority consideration. ABOUT THE PROGRAMThe Young Leaders Summer Institute (YLSI) is a civic e...

Apply For Scholarships - General Board of Higher Education and Ministry The general application for all GBHEM scholarships is now open, apply by March 31, 2025. Apply Now GBHEM Scholarships is partnering with International Scholarship and Tuition Services Inc. (ISTS) to provide an online application and database for our programs. ISTS is a firm that specializes in m...

The holiday season can be a time of joy, but it also brings unique pressures—especially for ministers and pastors who carry the dual responsibility of helping others navigate this time while also caring for their own mental health.

Join us for the Thriving in Ministry Retreat on Saturday, December 7, 2024 where we’ll tackle these challenges head-on. Back by popular demand, Dr. Sherrill McMillan Duckett will share vital mental health techniques to help you thrive personally and professionally during this season and beyond.

Take this opportunity to prioritize your well-being during one of the busiest times of the year.

If you haven’t already, complete your registration at the link below! We'll see you there!

🔗 https://bit.ly/ThrivingInMinistryRetreat2024

Announcement ‼️

Interested in PSU? Are you a minister, pastor or ministry leader that’s seeking a college degree? Needing to get back in college?

You’re invited to our Winter Online Preview Day!

•Get Information About PSU (History, Regional Accreditation, Tuition, etc)
•Explore the B.A. in Philosophy & Religion Degree
•Discover how to attend online/distance learning
•Access an Application for Spring 25 Admission ‼️

👉🏾See flyer for zoom meeting information

📢 Pastors & Ministers—your well-being matters! Join us for the Thriving in Ministry Pastor’s Retreat on Saturday, December 7th from 9 AM to 1 PM at Second Baptist Church Chapel in Little Rock.

🌟 Topic: Mental Health for Pastors and Ministers (Session II)
🎤 Featured Speaker: Dr. Sherrill McMillan Duckett, LPC and ordained minister

Come for meaningful discussions, rich fellowship, and a chance to refuel for your ministry. Continental breakfast and lunch will be provided.

🗓️ Reserve your spot now!
https://bit.ly/ThrivingInMinistryRetreat2024

Today, the PSU Thriving in Ministry Program partnered with Dr. Derick Easter’s clergy conversation. Over 30 pastors from Arkansas, Oklahoma and Louisiana gathered for leadership, insights and conversation.

Each pastor was blessed and we are hopeful for future opportunities to continue the vision of our Thriving Program.

📢 LAST CALL to Register! Don’t miss your chance to join Pastor Krystle McDonald for an eye-opening session at the Thriving in Ministry Workshop happening THIS Thursday, October 10, 6-8 p.m. at Saint Mark Baptist Church!

In just TWO hours, you’ll gain practical strategies to connect with younger audiences and elevate your ministry’s impact in both physical and digital spaces. Whether you’re leading a church, building a community, or growing a brand—this workshop is your gateway to deeper engagement with the next generation!

💡 It's FREE, but space is limited—don’t wait! Register now and take the first step toward revitalizing your outreach. Tap into valuable insights that will leave your ministry thriving in today’s world! 🌍✨

YOUR SEAT IS WAITING FOR YOU. SECURE IT HERE: https://bit.ly/ThrivinginMinistryOctober