When one thinks about academia and ministry, few names resonate as profoundly with selflessness, dedication, and a genuine heart for service as Dr. Denise Janssen’s. Her career—a tapestry woven from countless hours devoted to education, research, teaching, and non-profit partnerships—reflects not just her commitment but her deep-seated passion for nurturing both minds and spirits. As the Assistant Dean for Academics at the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology in Richmond, VA, and an Associate Research Professor of Christian Education, Dr. Janssen’s influence extends far beyond the confines of lecture halls.
Photo Courtesy: Denise Janssen
Before embarking on her current path at Virginia Union University (VUU), she honed her skills and shared her knowledge as an Adjunct Instructor for Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, IL. Her academic journey is marked by remarkable achievements: a Doctor of Philosophy from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary; a Master of Divinity from Northern Baptist Theological Seminary with major emphases in theology, history, Greek; and a Bachelor of Arts in English and Religious Studies from the University of Sioux Falls.
Dr. Janssen’s academic prowess is matched by her prolific writing career. Among her notable contributions to theological literature are forthcoming titles such as “Raising Faithful Kids: This is the Stuff of Faith” and “Raising Faithful Kids: Purposeful Practices for Deep Faith,” co-authored with Carmichael Crutchfield, Virginia Lee, and Jessica Young Brown. These works promise to offer insightful perspectives into nurturing deep faith within younger generations. Additionally, her authorship includes influential publications like “Pressing Forward: Faith, Culture, and African American Youth” which delves into the intersectionality of faith with cultural identity among youth.
Her writings do not merely aim to educate but to foster a sense of redemptive community—a theme she explored as an editor and contributor to “Educating for Redemptive Community: Essays in Honor of Jack Seymour and Margaret Ann Crain.” Through these endeavors, Dr. Janssen has established herself not only as a respected voice in Christian education but also as a beacon guiding future generations towards meaningful engagement with their faith.
The culmination of Dr. Janssen’s tireless efforts was recognized through The President’s Lifetime Achievement Award—an honor that speaks volumes about her impact on both educational institutions she serves and the broader community engaged in theological studies.
What truly sets Dr. Janssen apart is not just her impressive resume or even the accolades she has garnered over years of dedicated service; it is her unyielding devotion to her students’ spiritual growth that distinguishes her work. Beyond textbooks and lectures lies her profound understanding that education—particularly within theology—is about cultivating hearts prepared to serve others with compassion.
Her ordained ministry further complements this holistic approach towards teaching—a calling that seamlessly integrates scholarly pursuits with spiritual guidance. This duality enriches every interaction she has with students—shaping them not just as scholars but as individuals committed to embodying their faith through acts of kindness.
It comes as no surprise then that Dr. Janssen’s influence reaches beyond academia into various non-profit endeavors where she partners tirelessly to advance causes aligned with Christian values. Such initiatives underscore the breadth of her commitment to making tangible differences in communities through faith-based action.
For those eager to explore more about Dr. Janssen’s work or perhaps seek inspiration from it may find solace in knowing that much like herself; resources are readily available online including social media platforms like Facebook under “Denise Janssen” or browsing Amazon for access to all published works bearing her name.
In reflecting upon Dr. Denise Janssen’s journey thus far—one cannot help but be inspired by the blend of intellectuality infused with a heartfelt dedication towards fostering environments where faith flourishes alongside knowledge. Through every book authored or co-authored, every class taught, every project embarked upon—she embodies what it means to serve tirelessly not just within spheres of academia but wherever there are hearts yearning for guidance on their spiritual journeys.
Indeed one could argue that Dr.Jansen doesn’t just teach theology —she lives it out each day proving time and time again how powerful blending education and ministry can create lasting impacts well beyond classroom walls. She has touched thousands of lives and continues to selflessly sacrifice so that others may fulfill their call.
Published by: Holy Minoza
