Last Updated on February 6, 2024
A Journey of Faith, Education, and Empowerment at HBCUs.
Stories of motivation and success are not only common at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), they are what keep our schools' histories going. Rev. Kevin Kosh Jr.'s story is one of these. He is proud to have graduated from both Rust College and Gammon Theological Seminary. His journey shows how faith, education, and community can change lives.
Educational Foundations: Rust College and Gammon Theological Seminary
Rev. Kosh’s academic journey began at Rust College in Holly Springs, Mississippi, where he graduated with a degree in Business Administration in 2012. “Rust College was where I really discovered who I was,” Rev. Kosh reflects. “It was more than an education; it was an environment that nurtured my identity and ambitions.”
His pursuit of education and faith didn't stop there. He furthered his studies at Gammon Theological Seminary, part of the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC), in Atlanta, Georgia. In 2014, he achieved his Masters of Divinity, deepening his understanding and commitment to his faith.
This period honed not just his academic prowess but also his spiritual and leadership skills, which would significantly influence his career path.
Leadership and Faith: The Path to NNYA Director
Both his experiences at Rust College and Gammon Theological Seminary had a significant impact on Rev. Kevin Kosh Jr.'s role as an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church and his work in faith and higher education at various HBCUs.
His journey led him to become the Director and Strategist for the National Network of Young Adults (NNYA Director) with the United Methodist Church. This role allowed him to integrate his faith with his passion for empowering young adults.
The Role of GBHEM and BCF in Shaping a Leader
Rev. Kosh's connection with the Black College Fund (BCF) and the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) of the United Methodist Church played a crucial role in his development. “Working with BCF and GBHEM was not just about career advancement. It was about deepening my understanding of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and a leader in the black Methodist community,” he explains. These experiences sharpened his leadership skills and strengthened his commitment to his faith and community.
Rev. Kev's Message to HBCU Students
To current and prospective HBCU students, Rev. Kevin Kosh Jr. offers this advice:
“Embrace every opportunity. Your time at an HBCU is more than an education; it's a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Network, collaborate, and remain resilient. Your HBCU experience will shape you in ways you can't imagine.
Elevating HBCU Aspirations with GBHEM Scholarships
Your dreams are within reach with GBHEM HBCU Scholarships! Offering awards of up to $5,000 for UMC-affiliated HBCU students, these scholarships can be the key to unlocking your potential.
If you are an active member of the United Methodist Church and have maintained a minimum 2.5 GPA, don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your academic journey.
Apply now and take the next step towards your future!
Deadline: March 13, 2024
Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Empowerment
Rev. Kosh's journey is a powerful reminder of the unique role HBCUs play in shaping leaders who are confident, grounded in their identity, and committed to uplifting our communities. His story is not just about individual success; it's about the collective empowerment of the black community through education and faith.
As we reflect on Rev. Kev's path, we are reminded of the rich heritage of HBCUs and the endless possibilities they offer. It is a journey of discovering one's potential and using it to make a positive impact on the world. Rev. Kosh Jr. stands as a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for many, embodying the true spirit of HBCUs.
Connect with Rev. Kev
If you wish to connect with Rev. Kevin Kosh Jr. and follow his ongoing journey of faith, education, and community empowerment, here are the ways to reach out to him:
- Instagram: Follow him at @IamKevinKosh for a personal glimpse into his life and work. You can also follow @NNYALIT for updates on his work with the National Network of Young Adults.
- Facebook: Stay connected with his activities via the official page at https://www.facebook.com/SBC21.
- Website: Explore more about his initiatives and contributions at Sbc21.org.
- Email: Reach out to Rev. Kev via Kkosh@sbc21.org
Stay connected with his activities and get updates about upcoming events and projects.
Greetings Fam, I'm a proud Florida A&M Rattler and a second-gen HBCU grad through and through. Co-founding and steering the ship at HBCU Lifestyle is my gig, where I get to mix my love for UX design, digital marketing, and tech into something really cool for the HBCU community. Oh, and I'm also involved with my local FAMU alumni association chapter; it's like keeping a piece of HBCU with me always. Plus, I'm in the trenches too, raising a college bound teenager. So, I know a little something about the highs and lows of this journey. My aim? To make HBCU Lifestyle as relatable, real, and informative as it can be, all while celebrating our amazing HBCU culture and heritage.
