One Alum’s Journey and Vision for Future Leaders

By Robert (Bob) Cornwall, MDiv '85, PhD in Historical Theology '91, Grace and Charles Fuller Legacy Circle Member

Robert (Bob) Cornwall

When I enrolled at Fuller Seminary in the 1980s, I envisioned a future in academia. What I didn't anticipate was how my studies would become the foundation for a ministry that would seamlessly unite scholarship, pastoral leadership, and a lifelong passion for Christian unity.

I chose Fuller based on the encouragement of a recent graduate, and it quickly became clear that this was the right place for my journey. Initially, I was focused on a pre-PhD master's track, but a shift to the Master of Divinity program better aligned with my growing sense of calling. Ordination in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) followed, and over the years, my path led me from academia to the pulpit, weaving together the roles of pastor, teacher, and writer.

Now retired after more than two decades of parish ministry and time spent in the academic world, I remain deeply engaged in serving the Church. I continue to preach, write, and lead. Currently, I serve as board chair of the Christian Unity and Interfaith Ministry of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and co-chair the Disciples-ELCA bilateral dialogue.

Although I originally pursued a PhD in church history (under the mentorship of Jim Bradley) with no intention of entering pastoral ministry, my studies at Fuller proved transformative. They enriched my preaching, teaching, and writing, offering a robust theological foundation for the multifaceted work I would later undertake. One of the aspects of Fuller I value most is its multidenominational community. In the 1980s, having professors representing traditions as diverse as Pentecostal and Episcopalian was not only rare but formative, shaping my commitment to fostering Christian unity and dialogue across denominations and faiths.

My wife Cheryl and I have chosen to include Fuller Seminary in our estate planning, with a particular focus on supporting the Center for Advanced Theological Studies (CATS). During my time in the program, scholarships for Master of Theology and PhD students were limited. By dedicating our support to this area, we hope to ease the financial burdens of future students, enabling them to step into their ministries with greater freedom and fewer obstacles.

If you're inspired to explore your own commitment to supporting Fuller Seminary or another cause close to your heart, I encourage you to connect with The Fuller Foundation at [email protected]. Together, we can help equip future leaders to serve the Church and the world.