The Story Behind the Luther Seminary International Students’ Association (ISA)
The inspiration for creating the International Students’ Association (ISA) came to me during a visit to George Floyd Square on April 23, 2023. I was accompanied by former Bishop Jon Anderson and his wife. Standing in the square, reflecting on the tragic stories and faces of numerous victims, I felt a deep stirring within me. It was a powerful moment that brought clarity to a vision I had carried for some time: creating a space where international students could engage with the American context, share in its history, and voice their unique experiences.
During this time, I shared my thoughts with Bishop Anderson, who, as a mentor and spiritual guide, assured me of his unwavering support. He encouraged me to move forward with the idea and continued to offer his guidance throughout the process.
I had long seen the need for international students at Luther Seminary to have an organization that would foster community, build relationships, and advocate for their needs. In May 2023, in a casual conversation with Chantal, I shared my plans. We discussed the potential challenges, including concerns about using the name "International Students’ Association" because of certain campus narratives that might associate international students with being unwelcoming to the LGBTQ community. Chantal suggested renaming it the "International Cultural Club (ICC)" to create a more inclusive feel. We both agreed that the group could promote mutual learning and reduce intercultural misunderstandings.
During this time, I shared my thoughts with Bishop Anderson, who, as a mentor and spiritual guide, assured me of his unwavering support. He encouraged me to move forward with the idea and continued to offer his guidance throughout the process.
I had long seen the need for international students at Luther Seminary to have an organization that would foster community, build relationships, and advocate for their needs. In May 2023, in a casual conversation with Chantal, I shared my plans. We discussed the potential challenges, including concerns about using the name "International Students’ Association" because of certain campus narratives that might associate international students with being unwelcoming to the LGBTQ community. Chantal suggested renaming it the "International Cultural Club (ICC)" to create a more inclusive feel. We both agreed that the group could promote mutual learning and reduce intercultural misunderstandings.
Another mentor of mine, Professor Samuel Zalanga, enthusiastically supported the initiative when I shared it with him. He had long contemplated similar ideas, making my proposal timely. His encouragement reinforced the importance of creating this community.
At the same time, Alyssa and I were holding regular prayer meetings, which we called the 'Altar Hour.' In one of our sessions, I shared the dream of starting ICC, and Alyssa was eager to join. Together with Alex, a domestic student with a heart for leadership and inclusivity, we formed the initial leadership team. Our collective efforts brought the vision to life.
Initially, the group began as the ICC, supported by the dean of students and the director of Abide. However, as we continued to grow and refine our mission, it became clear that the group needed to focus exclusively on international students while still allowing others to join as associate members. This shift led to the evolution of ICC into the International Students’ Association (ISA).
Together with the guidance of key mentors like Bishop Jon, Professor Samuel Zalanga, and Professor Leone, as well as strong support from the Luther Seminary community, ISA officially began its journey. On January 28, 2024, a newly elected leadership team was inaugurated to carry the mission forward, marking the start of a new chapter for the association.
Through ISA, we continue to foster an inclusive community that advocates for the needs of international students, promotes intercultural understanding, and engages with the broader American context. It is a space of support, growth, and meaningful dialogue, and I am proud to have been part of its founding.
The Story Behind the 'I Am Black' (IAB) Ministry
The 'I Am Black' (IAB) ministry was born out of a personal journey that connected my faith, identity, and a deeper understanding of justice and black theology. During my time at Luther Seminary, I began to engage more profoundly with issues of race, culture, and spirituality. Through my studies in conflict management and theology, combined with my experience in Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE), I came to a fuller understanding of the complexities facing Black communities both in Africa and the diaspora. These insights, along with a growing passion for social justice and healing, inspired the creation of the IAB ministry.
The spark for IAB came from my reflections on the challenges faced by Black people, particularly within Christian spaces, and the broader societal context. As I wrestled with my identity as an African and as a follower of Christ, I realized that there was a need for a ministry that could address the unique spiritual, social, and emotional needs of Black communities. This would be a space where people could embrace their Black identity without feeling marginalized and could explore their faith in ways that are deeply rooted in their cultural heritage.
IAB's mission is built on five key pillars: reconnecting, reconciling, resourcing, renewing, and reforming. These guiding principles inform everything we do. We aim to help people reconnect with their African heritage, reconcile with their identity in Christ, provide resources to those in need, renew the minds of Black believers through education and empowerment, and reform societal structures that perpetuate injustice and inequality.
One of the ministry's key components is monthly Bible studies and discussions, known as Heritage Hour, which provide a platform for exploring the intersections of faith, culture, and social justice. We also host quarterly seminars called Roots & Reflections Forum, where we engage with pressing issues such as systemic racism, identity formation, and the role of the church in advocacy.
The spark for IAB came from my reflections on the challenges faced by Black people, particularly within Christian spaces, and the broader societal context. As I wrestled with my identity as an African and as a follower of Christ, I realized that there was a need for a ministry that could address the unique spiritual, social, and emotional needs of Black communities. This would be a space where people could embrace their Black identity without feeling marginalized and could explore their faith in ways that are deeply rooted in their cultural heritage.
IAB's mission is built on five key pillars: reconnecting, reconciling, resourcing, renewing, and reforming. These guiding principles inform everything we do. We aim to help people reconnect with their African heritage, reconcile with their identity in Christ, provide resources to those in need, renew the minds of Black believers through education and empowerment, and reform societal structures that perpetuate injustice and inequality.
One of the ministry's key components is monthly Bible studies and discussions, known as Heritage Hour, which provide a platform for exploring the intersections of faith, culture, and social justice. We also host quarterly seminars called Roots & Reflections Forum, where we engage with pressing issues such as systemic racism, identity formation, and the role of the church in advocacy.
The ministry extends its work beyond education and dialogue by taking tangible actions. This includes supporting orphans, advocating for social justice, and addressing national and global issues that affect Black people. Through these efforts, we strive to build a community that not only speaks truth to power but also embodies the love and justice of Christ in action.
The journey of IAB has been one of deep spiritual reflection, learning, and growth. It continues to serve as a place where Black Christians can explore their faith, find solidarity, and be empowered to create positive change in their communities. My hope for this ministry is that it will continue to provide a space where Black individuals can see themselves reflected in their faith and feel equipped to lead lives of purpose, dignity, and impact.