Little Rock, Arkansas – September 24, 2023 – Philander Smith University (PSU) is proud to announce the appointment of Pastor Earl Graham, Jr. as the new Chair of the Department of Philosophy and Religion. With a rich background in education, ministry, and community engagement, Mr. Graham, Jr. brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his new role within the PSU community.
A native of Little Rock, Arkansas, Pastor Earl Graham, Jr.’s educational journey began at J.A. Fair High School, and he has since achieved significant academic milestones. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Leadership & Ministry from Central Baptist College (Conway, AR), a Masters of Religious Education from Liberty University (Lynchburg, VA), and a Doctor of Educational Ministry from Dallas Theological Seminary (Dallas, TX).
Pastor Graham’s career is marked by his commitment to both pastoral leadership and education. He has served as the senior pastor of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church in North Little Rock, AR, for seven years, where his leadership and spiritual guidance have made a lasting impact. Additionally, his contributions to education include serving as a high school English teacher in the Little Rock School District and as an adjunct faculty member in the Religious Studies department at Arkansas Baptist College.
Beyond his professional achievements, Pastor Graham is an active member of the community. He became an initiate of the Little Rock (AR) Alumni chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., in the spring of 2012, and he currently serves as the undergraduate advisor for the Pi Lambda Chapter at Arkansas Baptist College, where he mentors and supports emerging scholars.
Pastor Graham is deeply passionate about nurturing the dreams and potential of students, empowering them to make a positive impact on the world through their unique talents. His dedication to fostering self-belief and academic excellence aligns seamlessly with PSU’s mission.
In his own words, Pastor Graham expressed his excitement about joining the PSU family: “I am truly excited to join the Philander family and be a part of the department of philosophy and religion. Together, we will uplift and empower scholars to reach new heights. Go PSU!”
Philander Smith University welcomes Pastor Earl Graham, Jr. with open arms, confident that his expertise and commitment will contribute significantly to the university’s mission of academic excellence and community engagement. We look forward to the positive impact he will make in his role as Chair of the Department of Philosophy and Religion.
