Rev. Lamont Wells to deliver Black History Month Keynote Address Feb. 21

DECORAH, IOWA—Rev. Lamont Wells, the executive director of the Network of ELCA Colleges and Universities (NECU), will give the Black History Month Keynote Address at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 21, in the Center for Faith and Life’s Main Hall. His lecture will share insights about ecumenism, queer identity, social justice and inclusion and how these themes motivate him as a faith leader and community organizer. 

“It is an honor to have Rev. Lamont Anthony Wells join us for Black History Month at Luther College. He is truly living history as the first African American to lead NECU,” said Robert Clay, chief equity and inclusion officer and assistant to the president for community engagement at Luther.  “He is doing great work to move Lutheran education forward with the NECU strategic plan through the lens of belonging to ensure Lutheran colleges  are truly living their missions so that all students may flourish.”

In addition to serving as executive director of NECU, Wells is also a United Nations Fellow fighting for human rights around the world. His address is part of a series of Black History Month events on Luther’s campus this month. 

Wells earned his bachelor’s in sociology and religion from Morehouse College 1995 before receiving his Master of Divinity and master’s in Christian education degrees from Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta in 2003.

Before being named NECU’s executive director, Wells served as program director for ELCA campus ministry and as president of the African Descent Lutheran Association. 

Established in 2015, NECU connects the ELCA’s 26 colleges and universities to promote their shared mission and identity.

About Luther College

At Luther College in beautiful Decorah, Iowa, students explore big questions and take action to benefit people, communities and society. Our academic programs, experiential approach to learning and welcoming community inspire students to learn actively, live purposefully and lead courageously for a lifetime of impact. Learn more at luther.edu.