Founded in the 1920s, the American Baptist Theological Seminary (ABTS) has been a key player in Baptist theological education in the United States. Its diverse and dedicated faculty has shaped the institution's academic landscape, emphasizing both Baptist tradition and academic excellence. Through their scholarly contributions, teaching, and mentorship, ABTS faculty members have played a vital role in preparing generations of leaders for transformative ministry and service.
Professor Floyd Thompson, as the esteemed Director of the 100 Voice Chorus at the American Baptist Theological Seminary, where he brings his wealth of expertise to the realm of choral leadership and musical education.
In addition to his role at the seminary, Professor Thompson has held key positions within the musical landscape of Nashville, Tennessee. Notably, he has served as the Director, Minister of Music, and organist of the renowned New Hope Baptist Choir, also known as Voices of New Hope. In these capacities, Professor Thompson has demonstrated a high level of proficiency, contributing significantly to the musical and spiritual vibrancy of the local community.
With a background marked by musical excellence and a commitment to nurturing the talents of aspiring vocalists, Professor Thompson's contributions extend beyond the academic setting. His multifaceted roles underscore a dedication to elevating the musical and spiritual experience for both students and congregants alike.
Reverend Isaiah Hilkiah "I.H." Henderson Jr, A.B.-M.Th., a distinguished professional in the field of Homiletics, currently holding the esteemed position of Instructor of Homiletics and Director General of the National Congress of Christian Education. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, Reverend Henderson Jr. has demonstrated exemplary leadership throughout his career.
His contributions extend beyond the educational realm, as evidenced by his role as the former assistant secretary of the National Baptist Convention USA. Additionally, Reverend Henderson Jr. is a respected member of the Baptist Minister's Union of Kansas City, further showcasing his dedication to the broader religious community.
Over the course of an impressive 39-year tenure, Reverend Henderson Jr. served as a minister at Friendship Baptist Church in Kansas City. This extended period of service attests to his enduring commitment to his congregation and the principles of faith.
In summary, Reverend Henderson Jr.'s multifaceted professional background, encompassing education, organizational leadership, and pastoral service, reflects a remarkable career marked by unwavering dedication and impactful contributions to the religious community.
O.L. Hailey, A.B., B.D., DD., Instructor, diligently served as an Instructor and the Executive Secretary of the Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention at the college level. Concurrently, he assumed the pastoral responsibilities at Eastland Baptist Church, exhibiting his commitment for a period of five years. Dr. Hailey's ministerial journey spans across seven Baptist Churches situated in Tennessee, Missouri, Arkansas, and Texas. Furthermore, his leadership extends to the presidency of Fayland Baptist College in Texas.
Samuel Lawrence McDowell, Professor of Homiletics and Negro Baptist History, born in 1885 in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, was a distinguished figure in the realms of theology and pastoral leadership. His academic journey commenced with early education in Canada, culminating in graduation from the esteemed Virginia Union Theological Seminary at Richmond University, Raleigh, N.C. Throughout his notable career, Dr. McDowell served as a pastor in various congregations, including the Virginia Ave. Baptist Church in Ontario, Canada (1910-1916), First Baptist Church in Durham, N.C. (1925-1931), Eighth Street Baptist Church in Lynchburg, Va., and Sylvan Street Baptist Church in Nashville, Tenn., where he dedicated twelve impactful years. During his tenure in Lynchburg, Va., he concurrently held the position of Professor of Theology for seven years on the faculty of the Virginia Seminary.
Dr. McDowell's academic engagements extended to his association with the National Baptist Theological Seminary, where he served as Professor and Dean during its tenure on the Roger Williams University Campus. Subsequently, in 1937, he returned to Nashville to assume the pastorate of Sylvan Street Baptist Church and commenced his role at the American Baptist Theological Seminary as Professor of Homiletics and Negro Baptist History. Despite facing physical challenges resulting from a stroke a decade prior, Dr. McDowell continued to contribute significantly to his community. Tragically, on December 11, 1949, he was struck by an automobile, succumbing to his injuries on Monday, January 23, 1950.
Sylvan Street Baptist Church, under Dr. McDowell's leadership, was not merely a congregation but a laboratory for his Homiletics students. Many had the privilege of honing their skills from the pulpit of this revered institution. Dr. McDowell's unwavering commitment extended beyond the pulpit; he actively championed religious education, civic uplift, and various progressive movements, embodying a steadfast dedication to the betterment of society.
Hugh Pendleton "H.P." McCormick, A.B., B.D., Professor of New Testament and Missions, was born in Mineola, Texas, on January 30, 1895, and spent his formative years in Lincoln County, Mississippi. His academic journey encompassed notable institutions such as A&M (Mississippi State), Peabody College for Teachers, Southern Baptist Seminary, and Johns Hopkins University. Between 1941 and 1943, Dr. McCormick assumed the esteemed roles of Professor of Missions and Professor of New Testament at the American Baptist Theological Seminary.
Victor Thomas Glass, a distinguished Clergyman and Educator, was born in Spray, North Carolina, and pursued his education at Carson-Newman College in Jefferson City, Tennessee, earning his A.B. in 1940. He continued his academic journey at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, achieving a Th.M. in 1945 and a Th.D. in 1952. Dr. Glass is married to Edith J. Messer, and they are blessed with two sons. Dr. Glass's illustrious career encompasses a range of roles, showcasing his commitment to both education and the ministry. He served as a Missionary in Louisville, Kentucky, from 1942 to 1946, followed by pastoral leadership at Milton Baptist Church in Milton, Tennessee, from 1949 to 1955, and Bakers Grove Baptist Church in Nashville, Tennessee, from 1955 to 1957.
His dedication to education was evident in his tenure as a Teacher at the American Baptist Theological Seminary from 1946 to 1956, during which he assumed the role of Academic Dean from 1954 to 1956. Dr. Glass's leadership extended to the position of Acting President, a responsibility he undertook from June 1, 1956, until his resignation on September 1, 1957. Post-resignation, Dr. Glass accepted the role of Assistant Secretary of the Department of Work with National Baptists of the Southern Baptist Home Mission Board. His sincerity of purpose in engaging with the Baptist constituency significantly contributed to fostering pride among the alumni during his term of office. Dr. Glass successfully addressed financial obligations and established improved lines of communication between the two conventions, leaving a lasting impact on the institutions he served.
Dr. James C. Miles , Professor of Bible and Librarian, Born May 18, 1882, died August 2, 1957, at the age of 75. Son of William and Nannie (Mount) Miles – he attended Carson-Newman preparatory school and college, Jefferson City, Tenn. (A.B. degree 1907) Arkansas Baptist College, Little Rock, Ark. (Honorary D.D.), A Baptist Minister for 52 years, Dr. Miles served churches in East Tennessee, Tullahoma, and Nashville Tenn. Pastor of Lockland Baptist Church 1921-31. In 1930, he joined the staff of American Baptist Theological Seminary when the only other teacher was Dr. J.H. Garnett. Dr. Miles taught Bible, Church History, Sociology, and Church Doctrine and was Professor of Old Testament Greek and Hebrew at the time of his death. A Christian gentleman who loved people and loved the cause of Christ. He was founder and director of the department of seminary extension, the organizer and first librarian of the school. Organizer and director of the farm and dairy system that at one time fed boarding students. Dr. Miles’ life was one whose spirit brought people of different races together in search of the Light that giveth understanding akin to heaven on earth.