[Sewanee: The University of the South press release] The School of Theology at Sewanee: The University of the South in Tennessee has launched a new seminary program, the EQB Fellowship, to address the issues of eliminating seminarian debt and forming future leaders for The Episcopal Church.

The EQB Fellowship program will create a new model of sustainable living and learning in residential community for 12 seminarians. Each student will receive a full scholarship, including living expenses, which will not only allow them to graduate debt-free, but will provide a rich environment for leadership formation.

Four students will be admitted to the program each year, beginning in the 2015–16 academic year, with the maximum of 12 overall. These 12 students will be selected for their commitment to “change the world” ventures for the Church of the 21st century.

Students will reside in the EQB House, located on the campus of the University of the South. EQB, or Ecce Quam Bonum, is the University’s motto. The translation is “How good it is” shortened from “How good it is when brothers and sisters dwell together in unity” (Psalm 133).

Eligible students will:
• be a single adult age 30 and under
• be appreciative of the transformational power of living in community
• be seeking a structured experiential context for further discernment
• already be participating in ministry
• have a proven track record of leadership
• have a willingness to take risks and collaborate with others

The School of Theology invites those interested in the program to apply through the School’s regular channels — theology.sewanee.edu/admissions/apply-now. Students that have been accepted by the School’s admissions office may apply for the EQB Fellowship.

Funding for this innovative program has been made possible by many generous benefactors, including a foundational grant by Lilly Endowment, Inc., and a partnership with the Society for the Increase of the Ministry (SIM). Most recently, a grant of $75,000 was received from the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation. The program also has received support from St. George’s Episcopal Church in Nashville, Tenn., and from the Kenan Foundation of North Carolina.