All applicants for the GTU doctoral program are considered for our Presidential Scholarship. Each year, the Presidential Scholarship Program provides four doctoral students, one from each department, with full tuition for five years. This prestigious scholarship is awarded based on merit by the GTU’s doctoral admissions committee. Presidential Scholars have added support that enables them to complete the program more quickly and to engage in professional activities such as presenting papers at conferences and publishing articles in academic journals.
Presidential Scholars Spotlight
This year’s Presidential Scholars represent a combination of international and domestic scholars, drawn to the GTU by a common interest in the unique intersectionality of mission, interreligious and interdisciplinary study, faith, and praxis they have found at the GTU.
Antoinette Bailey
Religion and Practice
My relationship with God has driven my commitment to serve others, shaping my work in church ministries, education nonprofits across Los Angeles, and teaching in Long Beach Unified School District. Now, I’m eager to deepen this service through a theological lens.
Key mentors like my mom, Mrs. Summers, Dr. Carbone, Dr. Golden, and the founders of Success In Challenges have profoundly influenced my journey, providing the support and guidance that brought me here.
At the GTU, I’m excited to explore liberation and contextual theology, focusing on justice and the wellbeing of children and families. I look forward to applying my studies to create tangible change in the community.
Alysiana Carter
Historical and Cultural Studies of Religion
My scholarly approach is shaped by St. John’s College, where primary sources and direct experience were key. Influences like Terence McKenna, Clarice Lispector, Joan Didion, and Ann Shulgin have guided my academic journey, alongside the unwavering support of my family, friends, and teachers.
My research focuses on the psychedelic experience and the ‘psychedelic canon,’ blending literature from psychedelic experiences with diverse religious and philosophical texts. At GTU, I aim to deepen this exploration and better understand the influence of these texts on our perception of psychedelics.
I chose GTU for its interdisciplinary support and the chance to work with scholars like Dr. Shonkoff. I’m eager to dive into courses like Psychedelics, Entheogens, and Spiritual Care and integrate these insights into my research.
David Lunceford
Sacred Texts and their Interpretation
To learn more about the GTU Doctoral Program and the Presidential Scholarship, contact the Admissions Department at (510) 659-2460 or via email at admissions@gtu.edu