Divinity school

School Notes: Yale Divinity School
November/December 2014

Gregory E. Sterling | http://divinity.yale.edu

President of Macedonia addresses YDS community

On September 22, President Gjorge Ivanov of the Republic of Macedonia gave a lecture in Marquand Chapel on “The Macedonian Model of Coexistence: Tradition of Respect for Diversity.” Ivanov emphasized that his nation’s understanding of coexistence is founded on integrating rather than assimilating people of diverse religious and ethnic identities. “There is no tolerance if there is no ‘other,’” he said, speaking through a translator. “Toleration is possible only when there is balance between belonging and distancing.” An active scholar and leading expert in the field of civil society, Ivanov expressed hopes that this Macedonian model can serve as a blueprint for future conflict resolution. “We don’t want to be a mirror that reflects the past, we want to be a light that illuminates.”

Alumna awarded National Humanities Medal

In a July 28 ceremony at the White House, President Barack Obama presented Krista Tippett ’94MDiv with a National Humanities Medal. Tippett, host of the radio show OnBeing as well as New York Times bestselling author of Speaking of Faith and Einstein’s God, was recognized for “thoughtfully delving into the mysteries of human existence. On the air and in print, Ms. Tippett avoids easy answers, embracing complexity and inviting people of all faiths, no faith, and every background to join the conversation.”

New YDS communications director

Tom Krattenmaker will join Yale Divinity School as director of communications after a successful career in both religion reporting and university communications. He comes to YDS most recently from Lewis and Clark College, where he has served as associate vice president for public affairs and communications since 2006. Krattenmaker is the 2009 recipient of the American Academy of Religion’s journalism award, and his most recent book, The Evangelicals You Don’t Know, received honorable mention from the Religion Newswriters Association in September. 

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