I'm Janiece Renee Williams, and I'm excited to share my ongoing journey with you. From a young age, I felt a deep connection to my faith and a calling to preach. At just 18 years old, I was licensed to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and that marked the beginning of an incredible adventure.

My academic journey has been shaped by the impactful experiences at my previous institutions. My time at Nyack College, where I pursued my B.A. in Biblical and Theological Studies, laid the foundation for my spiritual growth and passion for ministry. Later, my M.Div. program at Wake Forest University School of Divinity further honed my skills and deepened my theological imagination and preaching capacities.

As the years passed, my passion for preaching and teaching grew stronger. I knew I wanted to explore this sacred art form on a deeper level, so I decided to pursue my Ph.D. at Vanderbilt University. Here, I am delving into the realm of Homiletics and Liturgics, and I can't even put into words how enriching this experience has been for me thus far.

At Vanderbilt, I had a transformative experience that shaped my path in a profound way. I became a certified Preaching Coach through the David G. Buttrick Certificate Program in Homiletic Peer Coaching. That experience opened my eyes to the immense joy of guiding others in their preaching journey. Teaching preaching was a dream that I couldn't ignore and gaining these coaching skills deepened this desire, making it clear that my efforts were not confined to the four walls of academic institutions. It was clear, I would impact preachers both within and beyond the classroom.

My research journey has led me to explore the rich traditions of Black preaching, and I am captivated by the ethics that underlie these cultural expressions. I am determined to not just practice preaching but to continue in the work of using it as a force for positive change and transformation.

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, I found new opportunities to bridge the gap between communities and enhance worship practices. I couldn't resist diving into virtual ministry and designing online spaces for churches. The sense of community and spiritual growth that came from these efforts has been deeply fulfilling.

While embracing my academic pursuits, I remain closely connected to my church community, serving on the ministerial staff. It is essential for me to stay grounded and understand the needs and aspirations of the people I aim to empower through my preaching and teaching.

Beyond all of this, I'm just a family person at heart. My loved ones are my rock, supporting me through every step of this journey. They, along with my experiences within the church and academic pursuits have played a significant role in shaping who I am today.

As I continue to learn and grow at Vanderbilt, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunities to give back. Being a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, has allowed me to channel my dedication into service efforts that uplift underserved members of our community.

Thank you for taking the time to read a little snippet of my ongoing story. I'm so excited about what the future holds and the chance to do the work that my soul must have.