Transforming Theological Education
Project Starling set to launch in 2025
Theological education is on the brink of transformation with the launch of Project Starling set for spring 2025. This innovative digital learning platform is designed to serve a wide range of learners, offering high-quality theological resources (think courses) and modules (think lessons).
To design the modules, LSTC has partnered with an instructional design company, Noodle, to ensure the courses are built using best practices in online pedagogy, creating an engaging and transformative learning experience. By integrating multimedia, interactive activities, and assessments, the instructional design team will help Project Starling cater to various learning styles. This collaboration is crucial for enabling the platform to scale globally while maintaining a high standard of academic rigor and spiritual integrity.
Leading this exciting new initiative is Keisha Dyson, recently appointed as Vice President of Enterprise Innovation. Dyson’s appointment brings fresh energy and direction to the project. With her extensive leadership experience and visionary approach, Dyson is well-equipped to guide Project Starling through its launch and beyond. “I am thrilled to take on this role at such a transformative time,” Dyson shared. “Project Starling represents a unique opportunity to reshape how we think about theological education, making it accessible to all who seek it.”
In 2025, Project Starling will roll out its first three resources, authored by Dr. Marvin Wickware, Dr. Peter Vethanayagamony, and The Rev. Craig Mueller. Each faculty member brings a wealth of expertise, ensuring that these initial courses will be both academically rigorous and practically applicable.
Dr. Marvin Wickware, Associate Professor of Church and Society and Ethics, will offer a course that explores the intersection of faith and justice, drawing on his deep expertise in ethics and theology. Designed for faith leaders and activists, this course will equip learners with practical and reflective tools to build just and compassionate communities while addressing the moral challenges of our time.
Dr. Peter Vethanayagamony, Professor of Modern Church History, will provide a course offering global perspectives on Christianity, diving into the rich diversity of Christian practices and beliefs worldwide. By engaging with Christianity from a cross-cultural viewpoint, learners will deepen their understanding of the global church, moving beyond Western-centric perspectives.
The Rev. Craig Mueller, Pastor at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church and LSTC auxiliary faculty, will guide learners in spiritual formation. This is an invaluable resource for those looking to deepen their spiritual practices.
The platform’s modular structure allows learners to engage with individual lessons or larger courses, making it highly flexible and customizable for each user’s unique learning journey. This means that learners can tailor their experience to meet their specific academic or professional needs.
Whether it’s for ministers, lay leaders, spiritual seekers, or professionals working in non-profits and hospitals, Project Starling provides academic-style courses led by expert faculty. With programs for certification, professional development, and/or personal development, the platform is expected to become a go-to resource for those seeking spiritual and theological education.
As Project Starling gears up for its official launch in 2025, it stands as a testament to LSTC’s commitment to providing innovative and inclusive theological education.