Ecumenical Theological Seminary (ETS) announces Rev. Dr. Theodore T. Turman as its 7th President, ushering in a new era of leadership and vision. Dr. Turman’s appointment was celebrated at the annual ETS Fundraiser Gala, themed “The Future is Brighter,” held November 8th at The Henry. This special occasion honored the remarkable contributions of the retiring 6th President, Rev. Dr. Kenneth Harris, and recognized Mrs. Monique Marks, Interim Chairperson of the Board of Trustees.
Dr. Turman brings a wealth of experience in both pastoral ministry and spiritual healthcare, along with an impressive academic background. A Detroit native, he earned his Bachelor of Arts in English from Tuskegee University, his Master of Divinity and a Certificate in Baptist Studies from Emory University’s Candler School of Theology, and his Doctor of Ministry in Transformational Leadership: Pastoral Care from Boston University School of Theology. Currently serving as Pastor of First Baptist Church in Southfield, Michigan, Dr. Turman also has extensive experience in spiritual support, having held roles at Corewell Health and Wellstar Health System.
As President, Dr. Turman is committed to strengthening ETS’s community presence, fostering impactful partnerships, and advancing the seminary’s mission of inclusive theological education. “I am honored to have been selected by the Board to serve as the next president of ETS during such a pivotal season. I am excited to partner with the students, faculty, and administration, as we continue to foster a community that equips our students to effectively serve their local congregations and communities,” Turman said. “ETS is a vital element of the spiritual life of Metropolitan Detroit. My goals, in addition to maintaining the existing educational programs, will be to increase the continuing education offerings to support local faith leaders, as well as develop educational offerings that train lay leaders for the everyday work of the church.”
Founded more than 50 years ago in the heart of Detroit, Ecumenical Theological Seminary has been a historic pillar of theological education, attracting students from diverse backgrounds and faith traditions. Located in the beautiful historic neighborhood of Midtown, ETS has been a central space for spiritual formation, intellectual inquiry, and social justice. As one of the few seminaries with an urban-focused, ecumenical approach, ETS prepares students to meet the complex challenges of ministry in modern society. With academic programs ranging from Master’s and Doctoral degrees to community-based theological education, ETS is known for shaping compassionate, impactful leaders.
Under Dr. Turman’s leadership, ETS looks forward to a bright future. Building on the solid foundation laid by Dr. Harris, they aim to create even greater opportunities for students, alumni, and the community.
About Ecumenical Theological Seminary
Ecumenical Theological Seminary provides a multi-confessional Christian theological education within an urban context, while initiating interfaith engagement. Our approach creates spiritual leadership through personal transformation, social responsibility, critical reflection and academic rigor. ETS graduates are prepared to lead communities of faith while sharing God’s compassion in relationship to various ecumenical, interfaith, political, social, economic, and cultural contexts. Learn more about Ecumenical Theological Seminary.
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