mckenna-scholarshipAsbury Theological Seminary is pleased to announce the establishment of the McKenna Scholars Program for Christian Leadership in the Free Methodist Church. This restricted scholarship fund, established by David L. and Janet R. McKenna, is a testimony to their love for both the Free Methodist Church and Asbury Seminary.

Dr. McKenna is a 1953 graduate of Asbury Seminary and was ordained in the Free Methodist Church. While a student at Asbury Seminary, David surrendered his will fully to Christ, expecting that God would call him into missionary service. Instead, God led him in a totally different direction. He and Janet have spent their lives in service to Christian higher education, including 33 years in the presidencies of Spring Arbor University, Seattle Pacific University and Asbury Theological Seminary where he served as president from 1982-1994.

The McKenna Scholars Fund will provide tuition support for full-time Free Methodist students enrolled in the Master of Divinity or other qualified programs, including post-graduate level degrees, at Asbury Theological Seminary.

McKenna Scholars is approved by The Board of Bishops of the Free Methodist Church and the John Wesley Seminary Foundation.

Concerning this scholarship, President Timothy C. Tennent said, “The wonderful leadership legacy of David McKenna continues through these scholarships.  They beautifully reflect his lifetime commitment to raising up leaders for the church of Jesus Christ.”

The McKenna Scholars will be selected for their potential for leadership within the Free Methodist Church, with whom Asbury Seminary has a long-standing partnership. Two of the three current Free Methodist bishops are Asbury Seminary graduates, as are many pastors and other leaders within the denomination. This scholarship fund will continue and enhance that partnership and will further Asbury Seminary’s mission of preparing “theologically educated, Spirit-filled men and women to evangelize and to spread scriptural holiness throughout the world.”