Charlotte, NC / April 22, 2026 - Johnson C. Smith University hosted an estimated 90 faith leaders in its inaugural Ministers Luncheon, held inside Grimes Lounge as part of Founders Week 2026—an intentional step toward deepening ties between the University and the faith community. Rev. Dr. Boise Kimber, a distinguished JCSU alumnus and current President of the National Baptist Convention USA served as keynote speaker.
Dr. Valerie Kinloch, 15th President of JCSU established the event with the support of Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement Dr. Boris Henderson and the Institutional Advancement team. The event served as a bridge—connecting churches across the region and nation to the mission and momentum of the University.
“This was about bringing ministers and pastors together to think beyond our silos and explore how we can partner and collaborate,” Kinloch said. “When we come together, we truly are better together.”
Henderson identifies potential long-term outcomes. “The long-term goal is to work in partnership to impact our students, the university and the broader Historic West End community - and the Charlotte region. Those partnerships may include internship opportunities, a mentorship initiative, student involvement at the various congregations and strategic alignments for fundraising/resources to support Johnson C. Smith University. We are truly going back to our roots to strengthen our students and the broader community. “
The luncheon drew clergy from near and far, anchored by keynote speaker Boise Kimber. Leaders from several denominations were present, including Presbyterian, AME Zion, and Baptist.
Kimber, who presides over the largest African American religious denomination in the United States, underscored the historical connection between the University and the church, reminding attendees of JCSU’s early roots, including its former seminary.
“What is the purpose of this Ministers Luncheon?” Kimber asked. “It is to introduce our school to the faith community…. This university has always had a religious component, and we want to bring that back.”
He issued a clear call to action—encouraging clergy to actively support JCSU by sending students and investing in its future.
“This is a stellar university,” Kimber said. “She has weathered tough storms and is still standing as one of the top HBCUs in the country. We will be pushing clergy across North and South Carolina to send their young people here.”
Kimber also spoke personally about his journey.
“When I came to Johnson C. Smith University, they sent me to the reading lab. I learned how to read here,” he said. “I didn’t just attend—I give back. I believe in what the president is doing.”
The Ministers Luncheon also highlighted JCSU’s athletic success and its role in shaping student leaders. Head Football Coach Maurice Flowers, a two-time CIAA Coach of the Year, received a warm welcome alongside Chief Operating Officer and Athletic Director Denisha Hendricks.
Flowers emphasized the program’s focus on discipline, character, and academic excellence.
“If you have a smarter athlete, you have a better athlete,” he said.
He described a culture rooted in accountability and values—where student-athletes are known not just for performance on the field, but for leadership and scholarship off the field.
“That’s who we’re raising—young men who open doors, who serve, who represent this university with pride,” Flowers said.
Hendricks reinforced the broader vision behind the luncheon.
“The mission is simple but powerful—to connect our institution with the faith community,” she said. “Our churches are deeply committed to investing in people, and that aligns directly with our mission at JCSU.”
The spiritual tone of the gathering was reinforced by Rev. Dr. Robert Charles Scott, senior pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church, who delivered a devotional message centered on faith and perseverance.
“My message focused on trusting the process,” Scott said. “When we are connected to God, everything works together for our good and for God’s glory.”
He praised the event for bringing together diverse denominations in a shared purpose.
“It transcends denominational lines,” Scott said. “It creates space for Baptists, Presbyterians, and others to unite and do impactful work in the community.”
Throughout the luncheon, a consistent message emerged: the future of JCSU depends on strong partnerships—especially with institutions that have long shaped Black communities and the Johnson C. Smith University community, in particular.
“Two institutions that need money—HBCUs and Black churches,” Kimber noted, underscoring the importance of mutual investment.
For President Kinloch, the event represents more than a single gathering—it signals a long-term commitment to collaboration and community engagement.
“This gathering created space for meaningful connection—relationships, networks, and shared purpose,” she said. “We are not just preparing students for the field—we are preparing them for the world.”
As Founders Week continued, the Ministers Luncheon stood out as a watershed moment.
“I’m excited about what’s ahead,” Kinloch said, “and the partnerships that will grow from this moment.”
