Dr. Marsha Foster

According to Dr. Reyes, Dr. Marsha Foster is a healer’s healer.

Former Interim President at Chicago Theological Seminary, Interim Vice President at Luther Seminary, and, most recently, as Chief Academic Officer at The Interdenominational Theological Seminary, Dr. Foster is one of the most prominent and respected leaders in theological education in the last fifty years.

Dr. Marsha Foster is President Emerita of Ecumenical Theological Seminary in Detroit, Michigan. She achieved this milestone upon her retirement from the Presidency in 2013, after 7 years of distinguished service. Dr. Foster began her academic journey as an instructor of Pastoral Care & Counseling at United Theological Seminary (Dayton OH) in 1990. Since her retirement, Dr. Foster has served as the Director of Accreditation and Leadership Education at The Association of Theological Schools (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania); Associate Professor of Pastoral Care & Counseling at United Theological Seminary (Dayton, Ohio); and Academic Dean at Payne Theological Seminary (Wilberforce, Ohio). In each appointment, Dr. Foster was the first African American woman to serve in the position. She retired several years ago as an Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church after 40 years of service. She is a graduate of Tufts University, Interdenominational Theological Center, and The Graduate Theological Union.

An educational strategist, mentor, and theological education consultant, Dr. Foster has organized and facilitated leadership workshops, strategic sessions, and personal coaching sessions. She has worked with religious educators, non-profit leaders, senior administrators, and boards of directors to cross boundaries and co-create a shared vision. An esteemed author, Dr. Foster is a highly sought-after keynote speaker. She has received several honors and awards, illustrating her trailblazing contributions to theological education.