Members of the Claremont School of Theology Community,

Claremont School of Theology was founded more than 140 years ago with a vision rooted in the Gospel and carried forward by generations of people who have believed in the transforming power of compassion, justice, and belonging. In every season of our history, we have stood with the marginalized, the oppressed, and those who put their faith into action for a more just world. That commitment remains unshaken today.

We write to you now in a moment of deep moral concern.

We stand in unequivocal solidarity with immigrant families and communities targeted by unjust policies and unlawful enforcement actions. The recent increase in aggressive tactics by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) represents a dangerous escalation in the criminalization of vulnerable people. These actions not only violate human rights—they betray our deepest theological and ethical convictions.

We also strongly reject the decision by the President of the United States to deploy armed federal troops into the Los Angeles area. This militarized response to constitutionally protected peaceful protests is a misuse of government power and a direct threat to democracy, public safety, and moral leadership. CST joins other institutions of faith and conscience in condemning this action.

We affirm the right—and indeed, the necessity—of peaceful protest as an act of sacred resistance. Nonviolent witness is at the heart of every movement for justice. We lift up and support those who are taking to the streets, gathering in sanctuaries, and raising their voices against oppression, in the tradition of prophetic justice-makers past and present.

We are especially proud of the faithful leadership of our partners in the United Methodist Church and the broader faith community:

·  West Los Angeles United Methodist Church, a historically Japanese congregation with living memory of its members’ own forced incarceration during WWII, will host a prayer vigil tonight at 8:15 PM. This will be a sacred space for lament, hope, and community solidarity.

·  An interfaith prayer vigil will be held this evening at 6:00 PM in Grand Park, downtown Los Angeles, uniting voices across faiths in a call for justice.

·  Additionally, you are invited to join Father Greg Boyle, Rabbi Sharon Brous, Valarie Kaur, Bishop Taylor, and other faith and community leaders tonight—Tuesday, June 10 at 6:00 PM—in Grand Park (200 N. Grand Ave) for a candlelight vigil in solidarity and shared prayer.

CST’s mission calls us to educate leaders who are prepared to respond to the needs of a hurting world with wisdom, courage, and compassion. That means not only teaching justice in our classrooms but embodying it in our collective life. We are not neutral. We are not silent. We are on the side of those seeking refuge, safety, and liberation.

Now is the time for moral clarity. Let us pray together. Let us stand together. Let us act together.

Because justice is not optional—it is essential.

In faith and solidarity,

Grant Hagiya, Co-President

Kah-Jin Jeffrey Kuan, Co-President

Steve Horswill-Johnston, Senior Vice President for Advancement & Communications

Andrew Dreitcer, Senior Vice President for Academics and Dean of the Faculty

Kyungsig Samuel Lee, Senior Vice President for International Relations

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LOS ANGELES, Calif. (May 27, 2025) — Claremont School of Theology (CST) has announced a strategic and time-bound transitional leadership model designed to guide the institution through a period of executive transition, institutional restructuring, and renewed focus on long-term sustainability. The new leadership framework will go into effect June 1, 2025 and extend through June 2027.

This structured approach aligns directly with CST’s Strategic Plan, particularly its emphasis on collaborative leadership, financial stewardship, and mission-driven sustainability. With key leadership approaching retirement, this transitional model ensures uninterrupted operational excellence while positioning the institution for a bold and promising future.

At the heart of this model is a Co-Presidency shared by the Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Kuan and Bishop Grant Hagiya, two seasoned leaders who bring complementary strengths to CST’s executive oversight:

• Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Kuan will focus on institutional operations, including finance, accreditation, partnerships, and strategic planning, while maintaining strong ties with CST’s Board, faculty, and interreligious partners.
  
• Bishop Grant Hagiya will direct efforts in church relations, donor engagement, and theological education, while also teaching.

“This transitional leadership team represents both continuity and innovation,” said CST Board Chair Rev. Patrcia Farris. “It allows us to remain grounded in our values while taking bold steps forward—responsibly, strategically, and in full alignment with our mission,” Farris said.

The transitional structure not only strengthens CST’s leadership continuity but also significantly reduces costs—reallocating resources toward donor engagement, program development, and academic excellence.

Other key leadership appointments include:

• Steve Horswill-Johnston – Senior Vice President for Advancement & Communications
• Dr. Andy Dreitcer – Senior Vice President for Academics & Dean of the Faculty
• Rev. Dr. Samuel Lee – Senior Vice President for International Relations
• Rev. Dr. Yuki Schwartz – Vice President for Academics & Student Success (beginning January 2026)

These roles are vital to advancing CST’s academic vision, supporting student success, and deepening international and denominational relationships—core pillars of the Strategic Plan.

The Board of Trustees has affirmed that this transitional structure is temporary and will conclude no later than June 2027. It provides the space and stability needed for CST to prepare for the school’s next president.

“This is a moment of promise and planning,” said Co-President Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Kuan. “Together, we are setting the foundation for a more collaborative, mission-aligned, and financially sustainable CST.”

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Claremont School of Theology is a graduate school of religion and theology located in Los Angeles, California (Westwood). A leader in interreligious education, CST is committed to preparing spiritually grounded leaders for service to the world through compassion, justice, and belonging.

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Los Angeles, CA — The Claremont School of Theology (CST) has officially closed escrow on the sale of its historic 16.4-acre campus in Claremont, California, marking a pivotal moment in its 138-year history. The finalized sale, which provides $7.7 million in funds, has been used to significantly reduce the school’s debt, enabling CST to focus on its mission and move forward with a renewed sense of purpose.

“This milestone represents both the conclusion of a decade-long legal and financial struggle and the beginning of a transformative new chapter,” said CST president Grant Hagiya. “Though the sale did not yield the market value we believed the property deserved, it has allowed us to resolve debt and strategically reposition ourselves for the future,” Hagiya said.

The sale follows a protracted legal battle stemming from a restrictive 1957 property agreement with the Claremont Colleges. The arbitration-determined price fell far below the property’s estimated market value of $40–$60 million, but the transaction brings closure to a period of uncertainty and unlocks opportunities for growth.

The relocation to Westwood in Los Angeles symbolizes more than just a physical move—it represents CST’s resilience and vision. “While we let go of our beloved Claremont campus, we carry forward the memories of transformative education, worship, and community. This transition enables us to redirect resources and focus on building a sustainable future,” the school’s president said.

Situated in one of the most vibrant cultural and academic hubs in the country, CST’s new location positions the school to expand its reach and enhance its impact. Already, the institution is rolling out forward-thinking programs designed to address contemporary challenges and prepare leaders for meaningful service.

Key initiatives in development include:

• Global PhD Program Expansion: Positioning CST as a leader in international theological education.
• Korean-context Doctor of Ministry (DMin) and Doctor of Professional Counseling Programs: Serving the needs of Korean-speaking students and communities.
• Innovative Doctor of Ministry Tracks and New Doctor of Spirituality Degree: Launching in Fall 2025 (pending accreditor approval), these programs emphasize adaptive leadership, creative ministry models, and spiritual direction.
• Master of Arts with a Concentration in Education and Certificate Programs: Designed to support leaders in both ordained and non-ordained contexts.

“CST’s commitment to justice, inclusivity, and academic excellence remains steadfast,” Hagiya  emphasized. “This moment is not just about adapting to change but leading it, ensuring that CST continues to be a force for good in the world.”

The proceeds from the sale have gone entirely toward debt reduction, alleviating financial pressures but leaving work to be done to secure the institution’s long-term financial sustainability. With innovative partnerships and strategic initiatives underway, CST is poised to shape the future of progressive theological education and expand its impact in Los Angeles and beyond.

For more information about the Claremont School of Theology and its programs, visit www.cst.edu.

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Established in 1885, Claremont School of Theology is fully recognized and approved as one of thirteen official theological schools of The United Methodist Church, with close relationships with other Protestant denominations, as well as many interreligious partnerships. CST offers graduate level programs, including Master of Arts, Master of Divinity, Doctor of Ministry, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in religion and practical theology.  It is located in Los Angeles, CA.  

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We are pleased to announce that the Rev. Dr. Sheryl Kujawa-Holbrook, Professor of Practical Theology and Christian History, was recently confirmed as 14th Historiographer of The Episcopal Church by the 81st General Convention meeting in June 2024. 

Kujawa-Holbrook, who is a priest of the Episcopal diocese of Los Angeles and Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, also serves as Editor of the Historical Society of the Episcopal Church’s peer-reviewed journal, Anglican and Episcopal History.

Please join us in celebrating this remarkable achievement by Rev. Dr. Kujawa-Holbrook.

To read the full press release from the Episcopal News Service, please click here: https://episcopalnewsservice.org/pressreleases/kujawa-holbrook-appointed-historiographer-of-the-episcopal-church/

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