One hundred years ago, the founding fathers of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary (EBTS) envisioned an academic institution where students could pursue a Christ-centered education with the unwavering desire to be resilient vessels of Christian living and leadership in their respective communities.
In 1952, following years of transformation and growth, the institution blossomed into two entities—the college and the seminary—and yet, the founding vision remained unchanged. EBTS continued its commitment to foster theological training and preparation for men and women committed to upholding Christian values in an evolving culture. Over sixty years after its inception and during a financially challenging term, the Seminary’s tenth president, Dr. Manfred Brauch, along with God’s grace, saw the establishment of the West Virginia campus.
Through collaboration with the West Virginia Baptist Convention (WVBC), the WV Seminary program thrives under the steady leadership of the Dean, Rev. Dr. Kimberlee A. Johnson. Alumnus and campus Program Director, Rev. Dr. Robert Allen Copenhaver guides West Virginia campus students through seminary by shepherding hearts, hands, and minds dedicated to Christian work and service. The flourishing West Virginia program has expanded to include a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degree, along with several certificate offerings.
In celebration of our glorious history and ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the lives and legacies of students, pastors, ministers, faculty, administrators and staff, we are hosting a Centennial banquet on Friday, October 17th at 5 pm. Dr. Copenhaver noted that community has always been the strength of the program. As part of our Centennial celebration, the seminary will recognize a group of esteemed honorees. Our 2025 award recipients include; Ruth McFarland, 2000 MTS graduate and the first female administrator; Rev. Lloyd Hamblin Jr., former executive minister of the WVBC and current executive director of the Bowen Charity Trust for scholarships; Dr. Manfred Brauch, the Seminary’s tenth president; and Rev. Dr. Lawrence Leon Hoptry (posthumously), former director of WV Baptist Education Society.
Our annual Robert E. Matherly Award of Excellence honorees are Rev. Dr. George Hancock Stefan, professor emeritus; Dr. Deborah Winters, 1979 BS, 1985 MDiv, and 1996 MA, faculty and DMin Program Director; and Bill Thomas, for whom the new library was dedicated (deceased), and his spouse, Mary Thomas.
While the West Virginia Baptist Education Society generously provides Seminary scholarships, the needs are many. Thankfully, there is an opportunity to sow into the sacred work of our seminarians by financially supporting Palmer and theological education through five levels of sponsorship. We hope you’ll support Palmer students by selecting a sponsorship level.
Bronze: $150 (2 tickets with a special gift)
Silver: $250 (3 tickets and a special gift)
Gold: $500 (6 tickets, a special gift, plus recognition in our program)
Platinum: $1,000 (8 tickets, a special gift, plus recognition in our program)
Diamond Level: $2,500 (10 tickets including seating for 1 at the President's table (if desired), a special gift, and recognition in our program
Additional giving options are also available on the Palmer website.
We look forward to having you join us on Friday, October 17th at 5 pm at:
Emmanuel Baptist Church
1401 Washington Street West
Charleston, WV 25387