In a convocation marked by faith, heritage, and vision, Antjuan Seawright delivered a powerful charge to the 2025 graduating class of Ecumenical University, blending the weight of lived experience with the urgency of prophetic hope. As a nationally recognized political strategist, media commentator, and civic advocate, Seawright was honored not only as the Commencement Speaker but also as the recipient of the Doctor of Humanities, Honoris Causa for his lifelong commitment to justice, equity, and public service.
His words—rooted in conviction and compassion— echoed the core mission of Ecumenical University: to equip men and women across the globe with theological and practical training, empowering them to serve the unchurched, uplift the underserved, and lead communities in spiritual and social transformation. Seawright challenged the graduates to become modern Nehemiahs, builders of hope amid broken systems, declaring, “This degree is not a destination—it is a launchpad. Now, go build what they said could never exist.”
Presiding over the ceremony was Dr. James L. Felder, President of Ecumenical University and a civil rights pioneer whose legacy continues to shape the institution’s forward vision. Dr. Felder warmly welcomed Seawright into the distinguished circle of honorees, recognizing his unique ability to bridge faith, advocacy, and leadership on a national scale. “Dr. Seawright reminds us that the pulpit is not confined to a church and justice is not limited to the courtroom. It is lived daily—in boardrooms, newsrooms, and classrooms,” Felder declared.
The convocation also featured the Charter Member Inductions of two transformative ministries born from the heart of the University—CityLight Men on the Wall and Esther Women of Influence. These spiritual fellowships are central to the mission of CityLight, the global outreach arm of the University that mobilizes leaders to rebuild cities, revive faith communities, and restore generational wholeness through education, health initiatives, and global missions. E.W. Cromartie, esteemed educator and community leader, served as Induction Chair for the CityLight Men on the Wall, commissioning a brotherhood of men to become spiritual watchmen—standing guard over families, faith, and future. Cromartie called the inductees to “preserve the past, protect the present, and prepare the next generation to walk in strength.”
On the women’s side, Mrs. Susie E. Jones and Mrs. Lois Gibson were honored as Honorary Co-Chairs for the Esther Women of Influence, celebrating their decades of faithful leadership, mentoring, and sacrificial service. Their legacy— woven into the very fabric of
