Claflin University to host 26th annual Granville Hicks Leadership Academy for Laity and Clergy

ORANGEBURG—Claflin University will host the 26th Annual Granville Hicks Leadership Academy for Laity and Clergy Feb. 1-2, 2018, at the James and Dorothy Z. Elmore Chapel.

“How Congregations Can Reach the New Generation” is the theme for this year’s conference.

The Granville Hicks Leadership Academy honors Dr. Granville A. Hicks, a 1957 Claflin graduate who has been recognized for his leadership as a pastor and district superintendent in the South Carolina Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. Hicks was instrumental in creating programs to improve race relations, education and leadership development at the conference.

It began as a lecture series before evolving into a leadership academy that emphasizes connections between the academy, Claflin University and The United Methodist Church. The event empowers attendees with biblical knowledge, intellectual growth and theological reflection.

Heading this year’s list of speakers are Bishop Tracy S. Malone, resident bishop of the East Ohio Episcopal Area of the UMC; the Rev. Whittaker V. Middleton, pastor of Silas UMC and vice president of institutional advancement at Claflin; the Rev. Alisha Gordon, executive for spiritual growth for The United Methodist Women; the Rev. Samuel L. Green Jr., director of Christian Education for the Seventh Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church; and Dr. Reginald Lee, congregational specialist for the South Carolina Annual Conference of the UMC.

The lecture is held annually at Claflin. The purpose of the Granville Hicks Leadership Academy is to prepare laity and clergy for ministry and leadership within the church.

To register or for more information, contact Rev. Ernest C. Etheredge at 803-535-5150 or email [email protected].