U.S. Dept. of Defense Faith Codes Change Disrespects Military Personnel
For Immediate ReleaseDate: Saturday, June 6, 2026 Columbia, S.C.—This week media sources revealed that the U.S. Department of Defense has removed around 180 recognized religious faiths and belief systems from its list of faith codes. The excuse given by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth was that this would “streamline” the department’s “collection of religious preferences…Continue reading→
Congratulations to Our Spring Graduates
For Immediate ReleaseDate: Tuesday, May 10, 2026Columbia, S.C.—Cherry Hill Seminary honored eleven new graduates on Saturday, May 9 at the Spring Commencement. Selina Rifkin received her Master of Divinity in Ministry, Advocacy and Leadership. Selina began her Seminary journey in 2008, took a several-year break, then returned to complete the degree. Her thesis is entitled, “Seeking alternative…Continue reading→
Cherry Hill Seminary Holds Historic First Ordination
For Immediate ReleaseDate: Saturday, March 21, 2026 Columbia, S.C.—Cherry Hill Seminary held a service of ordination on Saturday, March 21, 2026 for five of its graduates: Vanessa F. Hurst, CMC; Jeffrey M. Keefer, Certified Spiritual Director; Julie Olson, CMC; Troy Alan Robinson, CMC; and Jenny Zappala, CMC. Each of the ordinands completed a thorough course of study, including…Continue reading→
Welcome Explorer
During the second year of the Spiritual Direction Certificate program, students work with three people, for free, as a practicum. If you are interested in doing spiritual direction work, please click a website/email link for the students below and book a “get to know you” appointment. The two of you then can discern if you…Continue reading→
Congratulations to Our Newest Graduates
Columbia, S.C. — Cherry Hill Seminary held its Winter Commencement on Saturday, December 20, announcing five new graduates. Following her keynote address Academic Dean Dr. Margo Wolfe presented diplomas for Master of Divinity to Dr. Angela Farmer and Rev. Arran Morton. Angela has taught at the university level for over a decade and has mentored…Continue reading→
Dr. David Oringderff receives the Hypatia Award for Excellence in Education
Columbia, S.C. — Cherry Hill Seminary held its Winter Commencement on Saturday, December 20, announcing five new graduates. During the same ceremony, Academic Dean Margo Wolfe presented the Hypatia Award for Excellence in Education to Dr. David Oringderff. The Hypatia Award for Excellence in Education recognizes lifetime achievement by distinguished individuals who have served the…Continue reading→
2025 Professor of the Year Michael Strmiska
Columbia, S.C. — Cherry Hill Seminary held its Winter Commencement on Saturday, December 20, announcing five new graduates. During the same ceremony, Votaries Alumni Circle Chair, Helene Grogan announced the 2025 Professor of the Year. Each year the Votaries Alumni Circle of Cherry Hill Seminary invites student nominations for the prestigious Wendy Griffin Professor of…Continue reading→
2024 Professor of the Year Keith Cates
Columbia, S.C. — During a virtual graduation ceremony on Sunday, December 17, 2023 the Votaries Alumni Circle of Cherry Hill Seminary announced the winner of this year’s Wendy Griffin Professor of the Year Award. The recipient is Keith Cates, PhD, EdS, Dept. of Pastoral Counseling & Chaplaincy. Cates (pictured at left) received his Ph.D. In…Continue reading→
Cherry Hill Seminary | 2024 Year In Review
For Cherry Hill Seminary, 2024 was a year of steady growth, continued system improvements, and celebration of our students’ and faculty members’ accomplishments. The following is a summary of key achievements. Programs Our programs—the courses we offer and our degrees and certificates—are the core of who we are as a Seminary. As a business, they…Continue reading→
Nominations Open for 2025 Professor of the Year: Let them know they matter
Which professor has inspired you this year with their teaching style, topical knowledge or spiritual insights? Honor them with a nomination for the Wendy Griffin Professor of the Year Award. Sponsored by Votaries Alumni Circle, this prestigious award is presented annually to one deserving faculty member who has demonstrated teaching excellence in the classroom and a commitment…Continue reading→