SMU alumni Barbara and Erroll Wendland contributed $1 million to the Perkins School of Theology to establish the Wendland-Cook Professorship in Constructive Theology.
The professorship will assist the study of systemic and constructive theology that addresses current church and social issues. William B. Lawrence, dean of Perkins School of Theology, says this endowment “will help assure the recruitment of top-flight faculty.”
The Wendlands’ contribution will help employ a faculty proficient in innovative methodologies of theology and issues around the world.
The Wendlands are very active in the community and have been long-time supporters of Perkins. The Wendlands attend the annual seminar of the Lay School of Theology at Perkins to continue their education in theology. Mrs. Wendland also serves on the executive board for Perkins.
Mrs. Wendland earned her master’s degree in theological studies at Perkins and understands the importance of her education. The Wendlands’ gift will help promote the mission of the Perkins School of preparing men and women for leadership in the church of Jesus Christ.
Last year, the Perkins Lay Advisory Board committee selected Mrs. Wendland for the Woodrow B. Seals Laity Award. The award serves to acknowledge and commend her commitment to serve Christ in church and community.
Dean Lawrence says the Wendlands are “a marvelous people of deep faith” and contribute a great deal to the community. This gift will be the second large donation to Perkins from the Wendlands.