Commencement 2025-5

Commencement 2025

Virginia Theological Seminary (VTS) conferred degrees and diplomas on 48 students across our Master of Divinity, Master of Arts, Doctor of Ministry, Doctor of Educational Ministry, Diploma in Theology and Diploma in Anglican Studies programs at our 202nd Commencement in May this year.

The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D., Dean and President of VTS, said: “Commencement is always a vitally important moment: Virginia Theological Seminary is sending out future leaders of congregations who will witness to Christ, build up the Church, and connect with society. This year the occasion was blessed by four honorary degree recipients who are models of such leadership of witness, building, and connection. Congratulations to our graduates. Go ye into the world and preach the Gospel.”

Commencement 2025-15
Commencement 2025-2
Commencement 2025-4
Commencement 2025-3

The Seminary conferred four honorary degrees in recognition of significant service to God in the Church and the world, one of which was conferred on an alumnus. The following people received a Doctor of Divinity, honoris causa:

  • The Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley, M.P.H., M.Div., President and CEO, National Council of Negro Women
  • The Rev. Sarah Coakley, Ph.D., FBA, Norris-Hulse Professor emerita, University of Cambridge
  • The Rt. Rev. John T. W. Harmon ’91, XIV Bishop of the Diocese of Arkansas.

A Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa was conferred on:

  • Suhaila Tarazi, Director of Al-Ahli Arab Hospital of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem
Commencement 2025-8
Commencement 2025-9
Commencement 2025-24
Commencement 2025-11
Commencement 2025-22
Commencement 202-6
Commencement 2025-13
Commencement 2025-12
Commencement 2025-14
Commencement 2025-16
Commencement 2025-23
Commencement 2025-17
Commencement 2025-18
Commencement 2025-7
Commencement 2025-19
Commencement 2025-20
Commencement 2025-10

NEWS

ISTANBUL

VTS Pilgrimages

In 2026 VTS is offering three pilgrimages: Grace & Gardens in England’s “green and pleasant land,” May and September; and Biblical Turkey: Holy Land of the Early Church in October.

ALUMNI