Student Story: Staci Williams (Master of Divinity Connections)
Staci Williams
(Master of Divinity Connections)

"Determined to make it happen"
My call came to me as I was sitting at a spiritual retreat talking about women in ministry. Suddenly I just had this overwhelming feeling that I knew I was supposed to be one of those women. That event started me on a journey that has been remarkable, wonderful, challenging, and sometimes scary. But one certainty has been clear since the beginning: Bethany Theological Seminary was going to be a part of that journey. It took me six years to finish my undergraduate degree, and then I took a year to rest, but I finally made it here!
When I attended a Campus Visit Day, I got so excited knowing that Bethany was the right place for me that I was determined to make it happen, no matter what. In my excitement I completed the application process seven months before it was due!
Because I have a family that I don't want to uproot, I chose the Connections program. But I'm close enough that I can take on-campus classes when I want to. I like the freedom and flexibility the Connections program offers so I can continue with my education while still being there for my family.
When the Lord called me to ministry, I pursued a degree in Christian education and became licensed. When the Lord told me to go finish my education, I was drawn to Bethany. Everyone at Bethany has done all they can to help me get here. And I know that when the Lord tells me to go out into the world, I will be prepared for it because of the growth and learning I experienced at Bethany.















As I enter my first year of study in the MA Connections program at Bethany, I find myself drawn to these two sets of words by Brian McLaren and Frederick Buechner. Being a woman who finds "deep gladness" in the combination of searching, struggling, and "questing" around the subject of the divine, I have...