Union Theological Seminary President Serene Jones on Jan. 25 announced the appointment of Dr. Sandra Montes as Dean of Chapel.

Montes had been serving as Interim Dean since August 2019, and is credited with the successful and seamless move of chapel online due to COVID. A bilingual educator, musician, liturgist and writer who previously worked with The Episcopal Church, Montes’ experience in leading worship and her ability to successfully build relationships helped her gain the respect and appreciation of students and faculty alike.

“Dr. Montes’ warmth and congeniality are just a few of her many talents (her singing being another one!), and I was thrilled that she was interested in staying on with us permanently. I’m looking forward to how she will further expand our chapel program,” said President Jones.

“Experiencing worship led by Dr. Montes is a joy! And she is a wonderful mentor to students. Her commitment to social justice and equality, and how she always keeps that centered in her work, makes it clear how closely she is in alignment with our mission,” said the Rev. Pamela Cooper-White, Ph.D., Dean and Vice President for Academic Affairs, who led the search committee.

Montes, an indigenous Latina (born in Peru and raised in Guatemala), holds an Ed.D. from the University of Houston and her book, Becoming REAL and Thriving in Ministry, was published in May 2020.

“I am honored to continue in this creative, liberating, challenging, forward-looking journey,” said Montes. “Being at Union has been life-changing! I have collaborated with and learned so much from very inspiring people, especially the students; and, personally, have grown in various ways. I am excited for what is to come.”