Free virtual event to focus on queer theologies as tools of political resistance
BERKELEY, Calif. — Pacific School of Religion (PSR) proudly celebrates ten years of visionary leadership by Rev. Dr. David Vásquez-Levy, a milestone that underscores his steadfast commitment to progressive theological education, radical inclusivity, and institutional innovation.
Over the past decade, Vásquez-Levy has led PSR through a transformative period—reimagining theological education, expanding diversity and accessibility, and strengthening PSR’s position as a hub for social change. During the last decade of his leadership, PSR has reversed enrollment decline, nearly doubled the school’s endowment, and cultivated a thriving academic and faith community that builds on the school’s legacy as it shapes the future of religious leadership.
“For me, this milestone is a moment of deep gratitude,” Vásquez-Levy reflected. “Over these ten years, I have been privileged to work with an extraordinary community to reimagine the school around its people, programs, and place. Together, we have brought clarity and stability to our direction, ensuring that PSR remains a leader in progressive theological education.”
A Decade of Transformation and Innovation
Through Vásquez-Levy’s leadership, PSR has responded boldly to the shifting political, social, and economic realities of the world of higher education by:
- Expanding PSR’s Reach – Establishing an innovative online learning platform, Kwaray, which builds on PSR’s work through its centers and programs as it aims to transform theological education through collaborative partnerships with other seminaries and organizations.
- Revolutionizing Theological Education – Developing stackable education pathways that integrate practical ministry, social justice leadership, and theological scholarship.
- Transforming Institutional Assets–Securing PSR’s future through strategic financial planning and reimagining the Berkeley campus as an intergenerational and interdisciplinary learning community.
- Influencing the Broader Theological Field – Leading national conversations on the future of theological education, with PSR’s innovations becoming a model for seminaries nationwide.
A Leader Who Holds Tension and Builds Bridges
Vásquez-Levy’s leadership has been marked by a unique ability to navigate competing priorities and hold complex tensions—between academic rigor and practical application, progressive faith and institutional tradition, theological depth and social impact. His background as an interfaith leader and scholar-activist has shaped his approach to creating a space where strength comes through diverse perspectives.
“As a leader, I’ve learned that theological education must resist rigid binaries,” Vásquez-Levy shared. “Our work at PSR has been about queering these binaries—blurring the false divides between theory and practice, faith and activism, academia and community. We are not restoring the past; we are regenerating the future.”
Recognizing the Moment: A Word from the Board of Trustees
Dr. Sandra Nathan, Chair of the Board of Trustees, praised Vásquez-Levy’s leadership and impact:
“For the past decade, David has guided PSR with vision, courage, and a steadfast commitment to inclusivity and justice-centered education. Through times of change and challenge, he has remained unwavering in advancing PSR’s legacy as a beacon of progressive theological education. The Board of Trustees is deeply grateful for his leadership and dedication. As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward with great anticipation to PSR’s continued growth and influence.”
The Next 10 Years: A Future of Regeneration and Collaboration
Looking ahead, Vásquez-Levy envisions PSR as a hub of innovation and collaboration where educators, faith leaders, activists, and scholars co-create a theological landscape responsive to 21st-century challenges.
“We must lean even more deeply into innovation, partnership, and theological imagination,” Vásquez-Levy emphasized. “PSR’s role is not to restore old models but to birth new ones—creating a theological ecosystem that equips faith leaders to navigate an increasingly complex world.”
As PSR celebrates nearly 160 years of progressive faith leadership, Vásquez-Levy’s decade of service stands as a testament to resilience, adaptability, and prophetic vision. Under his leadership, PSR remains unafraid, unapologetic, and unwavering in its mission to shape a more just and inclusive world.
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About PSR
Founded in 1866, Pacific School of Religion is a leading progressive Christian seminary, graduate school, and center for leadership development and social impact. PSR transforms individuals and communities through a flexible, stackable curriculum and a collaborative, lifelong learning ecosystem powered by diversity.
PSR offers multiple options for individuals looking to build spiritually grounded leadership skills and learn from wisdom-based traditions. To learn more, visit psr.edu.
Contact:
Jacob Perez
Pacific School of Religion
5108498239
[email protected]
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of RNS or Religion News Foundation.