Voorhees University proudly announces that The Reverend Lester V. Mackenzie, AHC, Episcopal priest and Chief of Mission Program in the Office of the Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church, will serve as the featured speaker for the University’s 129th Founder’s Day Convocation, to be held on Thursday, April 9th, 10 a.m., at the Leonard E. Dawson Health and Human Resources Center, 5573 Voorhees Rd., Denmark, SC.
Convocation commemorates the vision of founder Elizabeth Evelyn Wright and celebrates the University’s enduring commitment to faith, scholarship, service, and social justice.
Reverend Mackenzie helps lead and coordinate churchwide mission initiatives across The Episcopal Church, supporting work in racial justice and healing, gender justice, climate justice, church planting, evangelism, and multicultural ministries. A third-generation priest born and raised in South Africa, he was shaped by the Anglican Church’s prophetic witness during the Apartheid era. His ministry, deeply rooted in the philosophy of Ubuntu and African spiritual traditions, emphasizes reconciliation, unity, and transformative leadership.
A graduate of the University of Cape Town and Virginia
Theological Seminary, Reverend Mackenzie has served in numerous leadership roles throughout The Episcopal Church, including Chaplain to the House of Deputies for four consecutive General Conventions, concluding in 2024. He is widely recognized for his work in reconciliation, courageous dialogue, and spiritual formation.
“Founder’s Day is a sacred moment in the life of Voorhees University,” said Dr. Ronnie Hopkins, President and CEO of Voorhees University. “The Reverend Lester Mackenzie embodies the spirit of reconciliation, justice, and servant leadership that reflects the very foundation upon which this institution was built. His global perspective and commitment to healing communities make him an ideal voice to inspire our students and our university family as we continue advancing our mission.”
