Emilie M. Townes

Emilie M. Townes is the Dean of the Divinity School at Vanderbilt University. Emilie is also the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Professor of Womanist Ethics and Society.

Emilie was previously the Dean and Carolyn Williams Beaird Professor of Christian Ethics at Union Theological Seminary from 1999-2005. From 1989-1999, they were a Professor of Christian Ethics and Black Church Ministries at Saint Paul School of Theology.

Emilie is a leading voice in womanist ethics and society, and their work has been instrumental in shaping the field of womanist theology. Emilie is the author of several books, including "Womanist Ethics and the Cultural Production of Evil" and "Womanist Ethics and the Healing Community."

Emilie M. Townes began their educational career at the University of Chicago, where they received their AB in Religion and the Humanities. Emilie then attended the University of Chicago - Divinity School, where they received their MA in Ministry and Ethics. After that, they attended Northwestern University - GSAS and received their PhD in Religion. Finally, they attended the University of Chicago - Divinity School again and received their DMin in Ministry and Ethics.

Some of their coworkers include Pam Jeffries - Dean of Vanderbilt School of Nursing, William Robinson - Vice Provost for Academic Advancement & Executive Director of the Provost's Office for Inclusive Excellence, and Lorenzo F. Candelaria - Dean of Blair School of Music. Emilie M. Townes reports to C. Cybele Raver, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.