The Rev. Tiffany Knowlin, Pastor at Wesley United Methodist Church, Columbia, SC, will serve as the keynote speaker for Wesleyan's Opening Convocation on Tuesday, August 29th. Rev. Knowlin was the first female, first African-American and first person under 30 years old to pastor the historic College Place United Methodist Church located adjacent to Columbia College in Columbia, South Carolina.
Rev. Knowlin is a graduate of Columbia College with a degree in Chemistry. She received the Master of Divinity from The Candler School of Theology at Emory University and her Master of Urban Policy Studies from the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies at Georgia State University. "She was an extraordinary student and I have followed her career since graduation. She is a gifted preacher and leader in the UMC." said President Fowler, who taught Knowlin at Columbia College.
"She is someone who has had a similar experience to our students, attending a United Methodist women's college struggling to be inclusive. I knew she would be the perfect choice to help us think about how we share our stories, even when they cause pain" reflected President Fowler.
Fall Convocation is a formal ceremony that welcomes new and returning students, faculty, and staff to Wesleyan College. Seniors and faculty process in their academic regalia, awards for outstanding faculty and staff will be given, and student scholars and leaders will be recognized. The Convocation will take place in Porter Auditorium on Tuesday, August 29th at 11:15 AM.