Alec Powell: The Unconventional Call

  1. Student spotlight: A second chance at seminary
  2. Student spotlight: Pay attention to the “bread crumbs”
  3. Student spotlight: Relationship leads to Union
  4. Student spotlight: The twisting path to seminary
  5. Student spotlight: Longtime educator yearns to learn more
  6. Student Spotlight: Dana Purdom digs deep
  7. Alec Powell: The Unconventional Call
  8. Kate Meeks: Theology & Food Justice
  9. Nancy Myer: Lifelong learning
  10. Senator Scott: Finding community and connection
  11. Colleen Earp: Camping, conservation, and chickens
  12. In “Reference” to Paula Skreslet
  13. Paul Smith: From police officer to pastor
  14. Heather Woodworth Brannon advocates for housing justice in Richmond

Student Spotlight

BY MOLLIE TRAINUM

Alec Powell is not the stereotypical seminarian, so it is perhaps not surprising that he took an unconventional path to Union. Three years ago, he was a junior at Presbyterian College (PC) majoring in chemistry with an internship in the toxicology division of the local police department.

Although Powell had already picked up a minor in Christian education, an internship with Asheville Youth Mission during the summer between his junior and senior year was the catalyst needed to jumpstart his future in ministry. With two semesters left until his graduation date, Powell switched his major from chemistry to Christian education. He had 33 credits to take during his senior year, which he describes as “intense.”

After graduation, Powell moved and took a position as the director of Christian education (DCE) at a church in Moultrie, Georgia. Not only was this his first paid job and ministry experience, it was also the first time he had lived in a place other than his home and college town of Clinton, South Carolina.

“I didn’t know anyone. It was the first time I could just be Alec,” he recalls.

Powell’s role as DCE involved caring for a diverse group of believers; he was responsible for infants and children up to fifth grade, as well as elderly church members. His position later expanded to include youth, which he enjoyed, but admits it was “challenging” due to his lack of experience.

Attending Union had been a possibility to Powell since his senior year, as many of his professors at PC held degrees from Union, but he did not feel he was ready until he had tangible ministry experience. Once he decided to go to seminary, however, his mind was made up. Union was the only seminary he visited and the only school he applied to.

Like many other first year students, Powell has not made any definitive post-seminary plans. He is considering a future as a theology professor, as well as establishing a nonprofit that works to find mentors for children.

“I’m looking forward to studying and learning more and talking to other people who are going through the searching process,” Powell says.