CURRENT PROGRAMS:

Theological Exploration of Vocation Program (TEVP)

Leadership in Support of Neighborhood (LISN)

Antiracism Study Dialogue Circle (ASDIC)

The Wesley Center supports programs that engage the university and the community in exploration of vocation, leadership development and dialogues focusing on issues of justice and equity. The Wesley Center initiates and administers programs, helps connect potential partners for new initiatives, and provides an incubator for exploration of emerging opportunities. Currently, three programs form the core of the Center’s collaborative work with programs across the university and with neighborhood organizations, communities of faith, and other educational institutions.

Theological Exploration of Vocation Program (TEVP)—a university-wide initiative to expand Hamline’s understanding of the “vocation of the university” and to encourage lives of leadership and service. Initiatives include holistic advising for incoming CLA students and eight other programs for undergraduate, graduate and law students; curriculum development support and mentoring for faculty and instructional staff; and conversations and workshops on vocation-related topics. TEVP is funded in part by a five-year $2 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. of Indianapolis, Indiana.

Leadership in Support of Neighborhood (LISN)—a community leadership development program in partnership with the Hamline Midway Coalition (HMC). Beginning in 2005-06 a yearly cohort of 12 emerging leaders, or “LISN Fellows”, pursues individualized leadership learning programs with HMC and university staff, while contributing to community projects that enhance the neighborhood. LISN is funded by grants from St. Paul Foundation, St. Paul Travelers, Bigelow Foundation, Bremer Foundation and others.

Antiracism Study-Dialogue Circles (ASDIC)—a transformative antiracism program based on community formation to explore the interpersonal dynamics of racism. Since fall 2004, 11 circles have served 160 individuals from the university and community, who participated in 12-week circles of conversation, shared readings and videos, critical analysis and reflection.