Iliff School of Theology

The Iliff School of Theology is a distinguished private graduate theological institution, shaping leaders committed to faith and social justice. Founded in 1889 as a seminary of the University of Denver, it was officially named in 1892 after John Wesley Iliff, who envisioned a school for ministers in Colorado. While it briefly closed in 1900, Iliff reemerged as an independent institution in 1903 and reopened in 1910, dedicated to freestanding theological education and its Methodist seminary roots.

Iliff is recognized for its strong academic offerings, including a robust joint Ph.D. program in Religious and Theological Studies inaugurated with the University of Denver in 1981. With a focused student body of 185, Iliff provides an intimate and rigorous environment for advanced theological scholarship. Beyond academics, the school cultivates a profound commitment to addressing injustice, evident in its impactful events and initiatives.

This commitment to courage and social responsibility is highlighted by "The Courage Award," established in 2011 to honor individuals and organizations creating change in unjust situations, with Judy Shepard as its first recipient. Iliff has also been a host for significant events, including a "Celebration of Courage" honoring the Little Rock Nine and visits from notable figures like former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. These initiatives underscore Iliff's dedication to fostering dialogue and action for a more just world, preparing students not just for ministry, but for impactful leadership across diverse fields.