- January 30, 2026
Bethune-Cookman University has launched the second phase of a Lilly Endowment-funded initiative aimed at connecting students with small churches across Florida through expanded digital internships.
The program, called Equipping Leaders for Ministry, builds on a grant first awarded in 2019. Lilly Endowment Inc. recently renewed the grant with an additional $465,000 to support the initiative over the next five years. The project is a partnership between Bethune-Cookman University, the Florida Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, and Lilly Endowment Inc.
Phase Two will allow students from a wide range of academic majors to complete required internship hours by working with small congregations, primarily through digital and hybrid formats. University officials said the approach is designed to meet real operational and ministry needs while giving students practical experience tied to their degree programs.
Students will assist churches in areas such as hospitality, technology, organizational systems, and worship. The goal is to strengthen congregations that often lack the staffing or technical resources to expand their outreach, while also giving students hands-on experience in community-focused work.
“Equipping Leaders for Ministry is about putting talent where it is needed most,” said Dr. Alice Wood, retired professor and principal investigator for the grant.
Program Director Dr. David Allen said the initiative benefits both students and congregations.
“Students gain practical experience that counts toward their degree requirements, and churches receive skilled support that helps them serve more effectively,” Allen said.
Unlike the program’s first phase, the expanded model emphasizes remote engagement, allowing students to work with churches regardless of location. University leaders said the structure will include clear accountability measures and mentoring to ensure meaningful learning outcomes.
The program will be open to students from majors such as communications, business, technology, music, and the arts, reflecting the diverse skills needed in modern ministry and nonprofit operations.
Additional details, including application timelines and training requirements for students and participating churches, are expected to be released in February 2026. The new phase of the grant is scheduled to officially begin in August 2026.
Bethune-Cookman University, founded in 1904 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, is a private historically Black university located in Daytona Beach. The institution emphasizes leadership development, service, and community engagement as part of its educational mission.
