Yolanda Pierce

Roles: Special Guest

Dr. Yolanda Pierce is an Associate Professor of African American Religion and Literature at Princeton Theological Seminary and the Director of Black Church Studies. She holds a Ph.D. and an M.A. degree from Cornell University and undergraduate degrees from Princeton University.  Pierce’s research specialties include African American Religious History; Womanist Theology; African American Literature; and Race and Religion.

Pierce’s most recent book (Hell Without Fires: Slavery, Christianity & the African American Spiritual Narrative) and forthcoming book (Religious Ecstasy & African American Cultural Expression) focus on the historical and contemporary significance of the African American religious tradition.  She has written over 40 critical essays and articles in academic and trade journals which consider the relationship between religious faith, race, and gender in the American context.

In addition to her teaching and academic scholarship, Yolanda Pierce is an ordained Christian minister, dedicated mentor, community activist, board member of a foster care agency, and an MSNBC commentator.