School Notes: Yale Divinity School
November/December 2012

Settling in at YDS: a busy month for the new dean

Gregory E. Sterling began his term as dean of Yale Divinity School at the beginning of August. But the summer heat did little to slow him down, as he filled the month with a flurry of meetings with YDS staff and faculty, alumni leaders, Yale University administrators, emeriti faculty, and students. About the only concession to the heat came near the end of the month, when Sterling and his wife, Adrian, hosted an ice cream social for students two days before classes began.

Sterling had his first experience greeting a new class to Sterling Divinity Quadrangle during orientation week, August 20–24. In remarks to the entering students, he welcomed them to a “robust environment” where they can “debate and argue with one another, and maybe with faculty, and with guest lecturers.” Said Sterling, “It’s a liberal spirit, and that’s what I hope you can embrace.”

At the end of the month, the new dean offered an initial impression: “The most impressive aspect of YDS initially has been the sense of community that exists. Faculty, staff, students, and alumni are all keenly aware of the importance of community and work to foster it.”

Class of 1952 write about their faith

In their systematic theology course years ago, members of the YDS Class of 1952 were asked to write a credo, or statement of beliefs. In spring 2012, six decades later, members of the class were given another writing assignment—by the Class’s 60th reunion planning committee: a statement of faith.

Twenty-five members of the class responded, and the result is a lengthy, spiral-bound document called The Faith by which I Live Today, prepared for a gathering at Convocation and Reunions in October. Class Secretary Richard Stazesky ’52BD, ’53STM, ’55MA, who compiled and edited the document, notes the distinction between what was asked of his class as students—a credo—and the recent request. “Beliefs usually refer to doctrines, intellectual assertions,” he said. “Faith is more a matter of the heart, emotions, that which deeply motivates. Faith is what is important.”