August 7-8, 2026
Divinity and Religious Studies Building | Divinity Auditorium
For more than half a century, Dr. Leonard’s scholarship, teaching, and leadership have shaped generations of students, pastors, scholars, and congregations. His work models a faithful and accessible approach to theological reflection rooted in Baptist traditions, historical consciousness, and moral courage. The Summer Institute honors that legacy by creating a vibrant space where scholarship and fellowship converge, cultivating conversations across generations and equipping leaders to engage the pressing challenges of a changing world with wisdom, conviction, and hope.
About A Legacy of Dissent
For the inaugural 2026 gathering, the Bill J. Leonard Summer Institute will explore the theme, “A Legacy of Dissent.” The program will examine dissent both as a historic practice within the Baptist tradition and as a vital prophetic practice for navigating the ethical, political, and spiritual challenges of contemporary life.
Participants
Director in Institutional Advancement: Corporate and Foundation Relations · Salem Academy and College
Program
Friday
5:00 pm | Reception
6:00 pm – 8:30 pm | Dinner & Opening Program
Keynote Address – Dr. Bill J. Leonard
Saturday
8:30 am | Breakfast
9:00 am | Conversation I
“Southern Baptist Theological Seminary as a Case Study” | Presenter – Dr. Molly Marshall
Conversation Partners | Dr. Linda McKinnish Bridges and Dr. Bill J. Leonard
10:30 am | Break
10:45 am | Conversation II
“A Renewed Call to Dissent” | Presenter – Dr. Jon Singletary
Conversation Partners | Dr. Bill J. Leonard and Rev. Emily Hull McGee
12:30 pm | Lunch
2:00 pm | Worship in Wait Chapel
Preacher – Rev. Dr. Ronald Bobo
3:00 pm | Adjourn
About the Inaugural Bill J. Leonard Summer Institute
The Bill J. Leonard Summer Institute at Wake Forest University School of Divinity was established to honor and extend the extraordinary legacy of Dr. Bill J. Leonard, renowned scholar, teacher, and founding dean of the School of Divinity. Emerging from a shared desire among former students, colleagues, and friends to reconnect around Dr. Leonard’s enduring influence, the Institute builds upon the remarkable success of a 2025 reunion gathering at Wake Forest University and seeks to carry forward his compelling vision for theological education, faithful inquiry, and public engagement.