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The Graduate School and Institute of Pastoral Studies Commencement Addresses

Gerald Kellman

(MDiv '99) · Senior Advisor, Organizing, National Community Reinvestment Coalition 

Gerald (Jerry) Kellman (MDiv ’99) is a seasoned community organizer, educator, and social justice advocate with over four decades of experience empowering communities and advancing equity-based initiatives. He currently serves as Senior Advisor for Organizing at the National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC), where he supports grassroots efforts to promote economic justice, fair housing, and inclusive development through strategic coalition-building and community engagement.

Kellman played a key role in shaping faith-based organizing in the United States and was instrumental in developing community engagement models that influence public policy and drive neighborhood revitalization. Notably, he mentored former President Barack Obama during his early years as a community organizer in Chicago, helping to lay the foundation for Obama’s political and leadership trajectory.

Kellman has led organizing efforts through institutions such as the Gamaliel Foundation and the Developing Communities Project, working to address racial and economic disparities in education, housing, and employment. His work has included extensive collaboration with churches, labor unions, and civic groups to build networks of advocacy that empower marginalized voices.

Beyond his organizing work, Kellman is a speaker on social justice, moral leadership, and faith-based activism. He continues to mentor young organizers and contribute to leadership development programs that promote equity and systemic change.

Kellman earned a Master of Divinity from ºÚÁÏÃÅUniversity Chicago, grounding his work in values of compassion, equity, and public service. His enduring commitment to social transformation continues to shape communities and influence the next generation of changemakers.