This funding page is for my husband Zachary and our family. Zachary has dreamed of becoming a professor and researcher, serving both the Academy and the Church with his learning. For the past ten years, he has worked tirelessly to earn a Bachelor’s and two Master’s degrees (including a Masters in Theological Studies at Calvin Theological Seminary), all while balancing work and childcare responsibilities. His dedication has paid off—he has just been accepted to three of the world’s top PhD programs (University of St. Andrews, University of Edinburgh, and University of Aberdeen) for Theology in the U.K. and in the U.S. (Calvin Theological Seminary).
PhD work is a full-time commitment, and with three children under six, I will only be able to work part-time while also caring for our kids. This is where we need help: in order for Zachary to say “yes” to one of these amazing programs, we need outside funding to cover tuition and basic living expenses for the duration of the program (3-4 years). Tuition ranges from $30,000 to $40,000 per year, and our family’s essential living expenses are estimated at $58,000 to $75,000 per year. Scholarships are highly competitive and would only cover some of the expenses, mainly tuition. If Zachary accepts the US school, there is some funding provided for the first 4 years, but the program is longer (5-6 years), so we would still need support to cover half of the living expenses while I work part-time. If we move to the UK, we must also demonstrate to immigration that we have enough funds to sustain ourselves for the duration of the program.
This is a big ask, and so far beyond our means to produce on our own; so, I am asking for support from others so that Zachary can accept a PhD opportunity, reach this dream, and use this education, experience, and degree to teach and provide educational and theological resources for the church and the academy. Any financial contribution you give would be such a meaningful gift and investment in Zachary’s education and our family’s future, and we would be so immensely grateful. We know that the goal is large, but even small donations make a difference, and we appreciate every amount. Monthly donation commitments instead of single amounts would also work well, and we would be happy to set this up with you (please send a message if this would be preferable for you). If you do choose to sponsor us and would like to stay updated as this journey progresses, we plan to write a monthly newsletter and would love to share it with you. In addition, Zachary plans to create a theological resource for our donors. We are still solidifying the format and are looking for input on what would be of most value to most people. If you would like to receive our newsletter and/or the theological resource, please complete this Google Form.
We are setting a $110,000 goal*, which would cover the first year's full costs. We will keep this page updated and adjust the goal if Zachary receives any major scholarships**. Thank you for your support!
*(Listed goal was updated on the page due to a generous monthly support pledge given privately).
**(We also, of course, will return all donations if for any reason Zachary is not able to accept a PhD program).
If you are interested in learning more about Zachary and this journey, I sat him down for some interview questions and captured them on video (see below). (I apologize for the baby noises in the background).
In addition to this, if you would like to connect with us to ask more questions before contributing, please feel free to contact us (messaging provided in GoFundMe), and we would be happy to talk with you and answer questions or share more.
Organizer
