Kayla August, M.P.S., a distinguished alumna of Loyola Institute for Ministry, has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious 2025 Doctoral Fellowship from The Forum for Theological Exploration (FTE). Kayla is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Theology and Education with a specialization in preaching at Boston College's School of Theology and Ministry.
The competitive fellowship recognizes August's exceptional dedication to theological scholarship and spiritual leadership, as well as her commitment to developing the next generation of faith leaders. Her selection places her among an elite cohort of emerging scholars who are reshaping the landscape of theological education.

In announcing this year's fellowship recipients, FTE emphasized that the scholars' work "embodies FTE's commitment to cultivate tomorrow's leaders to be faithful, wise, and courageous for the church and academy while ensuring underrepresented voices are not only included but equipped to flourish." The organization praised Kayla and her fellow recipients as "visionary scholars" who "are advancing theological education and shaping the future of faith leadership."
The FTE Doctoral Fellowship provides crucial support for promising doctoral students who demonstrate both academic excellence and a clear vision for transforming religious communities and institutions. August's recognition reflects her potential to make significant contributions to the fields of theology, education, and preaching ministry.

Kayla's journey from Loyola Institute for Ministry to this national recognition exemplifies the institution's success in preparing graduates for advanced theological study and leadership roles within faith communities and academic institutions.