The historic Interdenominational Theological Center has appointed Rev. Dr. Herman “Skip” Mason, Jr. as its new interim president. This announcement follows the recent transition of former interim president Rev. Dr. Maisha I.K. Handy to her new role as the first Black female president of McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago.
Dr. Mason is a proud native of Atlanta and Atlanta Public Schools. He brings a wealth of experience and deep-rooted connections to ITC. He is an alumnus of Morris Brown College, where he completed his undergraduate studies. Continuing his education at Clark Atlanta University, Mason obtained a master’s degree in library and information science. He continued his theological education at ITC, earning a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry in African American church history, social justice, and outreach.
Dr. Mason steps into this leadership role during an exciting period for the institution. In 2022, the school received a 10-year reaffirmation of accreditation from the Association of Theological Schools. Under his guidance, ITC plans to transform its 10.4-acre campus into an eco-friendly hub for education and community engagement.
“I am deeply honored and profoundly grateful to the ITC Board of Trustees for this opportunity to serve the ITC, a place that is not just an institution but a sacred home to me. There is no place like the ITC where our collective strength lies in our unity. I am committed to continuing the mission of this beloved institution, standing on the shoulders of the trailblazing faculty who have shaped us into prophetic problem solvers. As interim president, my desire is to see, listen, embrace, plan, act, and most importantly, pray with our community as we journey together towards a future filled with promise,” said Dr. Mason.
Mason’s Background
Dr. Mason’s background includes serving as the 33rd General President of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., from 2009 to 2012. He held board positions with several organizations, including the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Foundation and the Atlanta Beltline Partnership. He is currently the Senior Pastor of the Historic West Mitchell Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Atlanta.
Markedly, Dr. Mason has over 35 years of educational experience, holding various leadership roles. He served as the Dean of Library and Museum Services at Voorhees College. Dr. Mason was also the Vice President of Student Services at Morris Brown College and Morehouse College. He was recently inducted into the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame Foundation, Inc.
Dr. Mason issued a call to action for denominations, alums, and aspiring students.
“ITC awaits you,” said Dr. Mason. Our best days are ahead of us, for we are stronger together, and with our eyes on the prize, we will elevate the ITC to the Next Level of Excellence.”
