Biography

Rev. Dr. Tracy Ross serves as CPI Program Director of Community Engagement and Outreach at Howard University School of Divinity, where she provides strategic leadership for community engagement initiatives, clergy and congregational partnerships, outreach programming, and special projects that advance the mission of the Compelling Preaching Initiative.

A preacher, educator, author, and community leader, Dr. Ross is committed to strengthening congregations, equipping ministry leaders, and building meaningful connections between theological education and community impact. Her work focuses on expanding access to theological resources, fostering collaborative partnerships, and creating innovative opportunities for leadership development within Black churches and communities.

Dr. Ross earned a Bachelor of Science in Community Health Education from North Carolina Central University, a Master of Divinity from Shaw University Divinity School, and a Doctor of Ministry from Howard University School of Divinity. She graduated with a 4.0 GPA and received the Exceptional Skill in Preaching Award in recognition of her excellence in homiletics.

At Howard University, Dr. Ross has led and supported initiatives designed to strengthen engagement between the School of Divinity and the communities it serves. She developed the Word and Witness podcasting initiative, designed the blueprint for the Black Congregations Resource Center and podcast studio, and launched the inaugural Compelling Preaching Symposium. Through her leadership, she has helped create platforms, resources, and spaces that support clergy development, congregational leadership, and the advancement of theological education beyond the classroom.

Her professional contributions extend beyond Howard University. In 2026, Dr. Ross presented at the Association of Theological Schools Development and Institutional Advancement Program Conference and was invited to serve on the Development and Institutional Advancement Program Steering Committee, where she contributes to initiatives that strengthen institutional advancement and theological education across member schools.

As a published author, preacher, and educator, Dr. Ross continues to advance conversations at the intersection of faith, leadership, community engagement, and theological education.