The most recent episode of NetVUE’s podcast Callings features an interview with Willie James Jennings. Willie is the Andrew W. Mellon Professor of Systematic Theology and Africana Studies at Yale Divinity School. A highly sought-after speaker, Willie teaches and writes in areas that include theological anthropology, liberation theologies, cultural identities and race theory, and environmental studies. He is the author of numerous articles and several award-winning books. He is also an ordained Baptist minister, and before completing a Master of Divinity from Fuller Seminary and a PhD from Duke University, he received his undergraduate education from Calvin University, a NetVUE member institution. Willie was also the keynote speaker for the NetVUE Unconference in March of 2021.
Willie believes that belonging is the goal of education, which is pursued at the intersections of the world’s contradictions and our own social and moral sensibilities. “The work of belonging,” he suggests, “begins with opening ourselves to the journey of our students and deepening ourselves, allowing ourselves to be learners even as we’re teachers.” In this conversation, he reflects on the influence of mentors and role models while also highlighting the racialized and unjust structures within Western educational systems. He encourages educators to listen to, to learn from, and—above all—to pay attention to their students as part of a shared vocational process. He also shares his commitment for challenging antisemitism as well as drawing attention to the plight of Palestinians.
Click hereto listen to the episode featuring Willie James Jennings, “Attention and Contradiction.”
Geoffrey W. Bateman is the editor of Vocation Matters.