ABOUT SCUPE
MISSION STATEMENT
Through a structured focus on talent, knowledge and skills SCUPE develops the leadership potential of individuals from schools, churches, community organizations and social agencies that seek to enhance the spiritual, social and physical quality of life for city dwellers.
CORE VALUES
- We are dedicated to educating individuals of all ethnicities and backgrounds in urban ministry, community organizing and community building.
- We value contextual education and design our educational programs to give students the best opportunities to match theory with practice.
- We are committed to ensuring that social justice prevails by preparing students to work as social change agents.
- We constantly create new partnerships and programs in response to the evolving needs of urban communities.
BACKGROUND
Since 1976, SCUPE has been devoted to educating individuals from all backgrounds as effective change agents in urbancommunities. This need was identified in the late sixties and early seventies, a time characterized by numerous social upheavals. Many urban training programs were created to respond to these urban dilemmas; however, the programs died along with the unique problem. In partnership with five seminaries, SCUPE established a comprehensive pastoral education model to address the volatile issues of urban ministry.
Utilizing the educational and training theories of adult experiential education, SCUPE provides both academically accredited courses and non-academic programs. Our programs are designed for individuals interested in pastoral ministry, community leadership and social justice. These programs engage the urban environment as well as provide leadership development for urban ministers.
Today, SCUPE is comprised of twelve seminaries. We now have over 300 graduates and many more have taken individual courses. Our academic program expanded and now includes, Graduate Theological Urban Education (GTUS), Center for African American Theological Studies (CAATS), Nurturing the Call (NTC) and Master of Arts in Community Development (MACD). Graduates from these programs have assumed numerous leadership positions in local churches and community organizations.
