THE SCHOOL FOR MINISTRY
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We exist to connect YOU to your calling.

Our Leadership

Rev. April McClure Stewart, Executive Director

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Rev. April McClure Stewart came to the School for Ministry as Leader for the 2020 Cohort. She is a pastor, homeschooling mother of six energetic children, and the wife of an innovative engineer. 
April was born and raised in Eureka, IL.  She attended Eureka College where she received her BA in Vocal Performance.  She then attended Lexington Theological Seminary where she received her M.Div.
April currently serves as Pastor at Memorial Christian Church in Peoria.
She calls herself a "church nerd" and is passionate about helping the church to envision and embody faith-in-Jesus in our changing world. Learning along with her children is one of her great joys.  

Rev. Donna Freeman- Lott, Leader for 2021 and 2022 Cohorts

Rev. Donna R. Freeman-Lott, Leader of our 2021 and 2022 Cohorts.  Donna is a board-certified chaplain in both hospital and hospice settings who also serves as associate pastor of Grace UCC, Sauk Village, IL.  
Donna graduated from McCormick Theological Seminary in 1993 and was ordained in the United Church of Christ. Over the years, Donna has worked in the fields of business, banking, the US Department of Treasury, and retail. Her experiences further encompass the areas of social services, counseling, administration, crisis outreach, mental health, and hospital liaising. Donna has served as an adjunct Instructor. Most recently, she has been a volunteer coordinator and veteran liaison.
Family is important to Donna. She is the daughter of Alvin J. Freeman, Jr. (deceased 2020) and Juanita S. Freeman. She married Bernard Lott in 2017.
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Rev. Gloria Cox, Leader for 2023 Cohort

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Gloria is a bi-vocational United Church of Christ pastor with 7 years of ordained ministry experience and 25+ years leading business strategy and growth consulting teams to achieve winning outcomes for clients.
Gloria has been active in the UCC since she was confirmed in 8th grade, serving in a variety of lay and pastoral roles in local and wider church settings. She has a passion for interim ministry, preaching and teaching the Gospel, and she is thrilled to have the opportunity to participate in the vital mission of the School of Ministry.

  • The School for Ministry
  • FAQs
  • Our Team
  • Apply Now
  • For Current Students
  • Register For Events
  • School News Blog