Professor Melva L. Sampson named to to deliver the Bracke Public Lecture on Leadership at Eden Theological Seminary
Winston-Salem, N.C. — Wake Forest University School of Divinity Assistant Teaching Professor of Preaching and Practical Theology Melva L. Sampson was named to deliver the Bracke Public Lecture on Leadership on November 10, 2026, at Eden Theological Seminary.
The Bracke Lecture was established in 2012 to honor Rev. Dr. John Bracke and Mrs. Mary Bracke upon Rev. Dr. Bracke’s retirement from the Eden faculty. Mary faithfully served Eden Theological Seminary in a variety of capacities, including Director of the Bookstore, Choir Director, and Organist.
During his distinguished tenure at Eden, Rev. Dr. Bracke taught Old Testament and later expanded his teaching to include Congregational Formation. In recognition of his commitment to preparing and strengthening church leaders, the Bracke Lecture focuses on themes related to congregational life, leadership, and administration.
Rev. Dr. Melva L. Sampson is an ordained minister, author, public theologian, and professor at Wake Forest University School of Divinity. Founder of The Pink Robe Chronicles, her work centers on faith, justice, womanist theology, healing, and transformative leadership.
Discover practical insights for stronger congregations and effective leadership at the Bracke Lecture. May we continue a legacy of equipping leaders for meaningful ministry.
To view the original post or to find more information about Eden Theological Seminary’s Bracke Lecture visit Eden Theological Seminary’s website.
About the Wake Forest University School of Divinity
Founded in 1999, Wake Forest University School of Divinity is a graduate, professional school that is Christian by tradition, Baptist in heritage, and ecumenical in outlook. Guided by the University’s motto, Pro Humanitate, the School prepares leaders informed by a theological understanding of vocation and equipped to serve as agents of justice, reconciliation, and compassion in a complex world. The School offers masters and doctoral degree programs including dual degree programs in bioethics, counseling, education, law, management, and sustainability.
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