It is our desire that our ministry wives not only survive in ministry, but that they thrive.
Thrive is a ministry wives certificate that prepares women for gospel ministry in their families, churches, and communities.
My name is Tara Dew, and I’m so glad you’re here. It is my vision to see ministry wives succeed in their calling from God.
Thrive merges biblical instruction and practical application in an academic, discipleship setting with faculty wives and fellow students.
Courses
Courses are on a two-year rotation
Essentials for Ministry Wives (LCMW1101)
In this course, students will cover foundational topics to prepare and equip for ministry. Special attention will be given to calling, spiritual giftings, spiritual disciplines, soul care, and the legacy of a godly wife. It is the first course in the certificate and is highly recommended for all student spouses, whether or not they complete the remaining courses in the certificate program.
TEXTBOOK: Identity Theft by Melissa Kruger
Healthy Habits for Ministry Families and Marriages (LCMW1102)
In this course, students will learn biblical principles for healthy marriages and families, such as the importance of communication, the value of budgeting and stewardship of your resources, the necessity of balancing expectations of time, and the need to find rest while expressing godly hospitality in your homes, churches and communities.
TEXTBOOK: Love Like You Mean It by Bob Lepine
How to Study and Teach the Bible (LCMW1103)
In this course, students will learn basic methods for studying Scripture as well as practical approaches for teaching the Bible. They will also understand the importance of effective communication through both observation and application.
TEXTBOOK: Women of the Word by Jen Wilkin
Understanding the Grand Narrative of Scripture (LCMW1104)
In this broad survey of the Old and New Testaments, students will be introduced to the content and context of the Bible. Biblical theology themes as well as the grand storyline of Scripture will be discussed as well.
TEXTBOOK: God’s Big Picture: Tracing the Storyline of the Bible by Vaughan Roberts
Introduction to Soul Care (LCMW1105)
In this course, ministry wives will gain a basic overview and foundation for Christian counseling. Special emphasis will be placed on how ministry wives can counsel women, including such topics as fear, conflict, family/marriage, anxiety, depression, grief, and loss.
TEXTBOOK: Women Counseling Women by Kristin Kellen
Foundational Principles for Interpersonal Relationships (LCMW1106)
In this course, students will explore foundational principles in various interpersonal relationships. Topics covered in the class will include making and keeping friends in ministry, establishing the need for personal discipleship, learning skills to fight loneliness/isolation, as well as handling church conflict and overall involvement in SBC polity.
TEXTBOOK: A Place to Belong: Learning to Love the Local Church by Megan Hill
Basic Christian Doctrine and Worldview (LCMW1107)
In this course, students will survey basic Christian doctrines, biblical womanhood, and evangelistic worldview, while looking closely at the evangelical doctrines outlined in the Baptist Faith & Message 2000.
TEXTBOOK: Baptist Faith and Message 2000
Evangelism and Disciple-making for Ministry Wives (LCMW1108)
In this course, students will learn basic evangelism and disciple-making strategies, including relational evangelism, mission planning, and the involvement of a ministry wife in church, community and mercy ministries.
TEXTBOOK: Stay Salt by Rebecca Manley Pippert
Program Note
Thrive classes are held on Tuesday nights from 6:30-8:30 pm and are FREE for residential student wives. (If you are off-campus or unable to attend on Tuesday nights, you can also choose to take the same class in an online Nola2U Flex format.) We encourage all students to take two, 8-week classes per semester.
I’m so thankful for the opportunity to have been part of the Thrive program at NOBTS over the past two years. Being surrounded by a community of godly women, many of whom became dear friends, was such a blessing. The teachers, who poured into us with wisdom, grace, and genuine love for their students, made a lasting impact on my heart and walk with Christ.
These classes strengthened me in ways I didn’t expect and deepened my relationship with the Lord beyond what I imagined. I will truly miss our Tuesday night gatherings, the encouragement, the laughter, and the powerful truths shared each week.
It was a blessing, an encouragement, and my walk with Jesus will grow deeper than I thought possible.
— Jeanetta M (online Thrive student)
Do you desire more training or to serve overseas?
Thrive+ is now approved to satisfy the spouse requirement for serving overseas. In addition to the 8 Thrive classes (above), Thrive+ students will take these additional 4 classes.
Old Testament Survey (LCMW1109)
In this course, students will survey the books of the Old Testament, including their author, genre, main theme, geographical information, historical context, and pertinent theological content.
TEXTBOOK: How to Read the Bible Book by Book: A Guided Tour by Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart.
Offered every fall.
New Testament Survey (LCMW1110)
In this course, students will survey the books of the New Testament, including their author, genre, main theme, geographical information, historical context, and pertinent theological content.
TEXTBOOK: How to Read the Bible Book by Book: A Guided Tour by Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart.
Offered every fall.
Biblical Theology of Womanhood (LCMW1111)
In this course, students will gain an amplified and comprehensive knowledge of biblical womanhood from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical principles found in Scripture will be applied to life relationships in the home, church, and world.
TEXTBOOK: Worthy: Celebrating the Value of Women by Elyse Fitzpatrick
Offered every spring.
Christian Ministry and Missions (LCMW1112)
In this course, students are introduced to the biblical and theological foundations of Christian Missions, with a specific focus on the Great Commission. Students will be encouraged to be involved in Christian ministries and missions both locally, nationally, and internationally.
TEXTBOOK:Love Where You Live: How to Live Sent in the Place You Call Home by Shauna Pilgreen
Offered every spring.
“What I love so much about this program is it gives us a roadmap for navigating through the struggles of ministry. Each class has left me feeling more equipped and with a more profound love for the life of ministry.”
— Courtney L. (a Thrive student)
Our team of teachers looks forward to encouraging and discipling you both in the classroom and in life. We are excited to serve you as you prepare for whatever ministry to which God has called you.
Tara Dew
Director
ABOUT
Tara has loved Jesus for as long as she can remember.
She grew up in a Christian home, and even met her husband in the church youth group. Tara & Jamie have now been married for 25 years and have been blessed with two sets of twins, lovingly called “The Dew Krewe.”
She has the privilege of serving NOBTS as President’s Wife, teaching in the Ministry to Women academic programs, and directing Thrive: A Ministry Wife Certificate program. Tara is a national speaker and is the author of Overflowing Joy, Overflowing Peace, and a 10-week Bible study, “Fruit of the Spirit.” You can find out more on her ministry Facebook page. To learn more about Tara, click here.
Teaches: “Essentials for Ministry Wives,” “Foundational Principles for Interpersonal Relationships,” and “Biblical Theology of Womanhood”
Emily Jones
Assistant Director
ABOUT
Emily has been married to her college best friend, Ethan, for 20 years, and is mama to two boys. She loves serving in her local church and encouraging others. Emily enjoys leisurely gardening, baking, playing Mahjong. She is constantly planning her family’s next travel adventure.
Teaches: “Healthy Habits for Marriages and Families” and “New Testament Survey”
Rebekah Callahan
Teacher
ABOUT
Rebekah and her husband Chris have been married since 2017 and moved to New Orleans in January of 2021. She serves in the Student Life office as associate dean of students. Rebekah is passionate about discipleship and seeing others grow in their love of and obedience to God through his Word. She and her husband have one beautiful little girl.
Teaches: “Introduction to Soul Care.”
Emily Dean
Teacher
ABOUT
Emily Dean serves as Associate Professor of Ministry to Women at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.
She and her husband, Dr. Jody Dean, along with their two precious children Lydia and James Robert, live in the New Orleans area where Jody serves as Associate Professor of Discipleship and Ministry Leadership at NOBTS.
Passionate about preparing women for ministry leadership, Emily enjoys training women on how to study and teach God’s Word. They have two children, Lydia and James. To learn more about Emily, click here.
Teaches: “How to Study and Teach the Bible.”
Rebecca Duenke
Teacher
ABOUT
Rebecca has served in a variety of ministry roles, including pastor’s wife, Bible college dean, mission team leader, and women’s ministry coordinator. She is passionate about equipping ministry wives to serve alongside their husbands with boldness and resilience. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Christian Education. Rebecca is married to Eric, an adjunct professor and assistant registrar at NOBTS, and together they have three boys. Most evenings, Rebecca enjoys taking walks around campus with her family.
Serves as Thrive grader and childcare coordinator.
Kim Grubbs
Teacher
ABOUT
I am proud to be Norris’ wife for 27 years. I am mom to three wonderful daughters and two amazing sons-in-law, all who teach me more about God’s love and forgiveness all the time. My roots run deep in Oklahoma but my dad’s Air Force career gave me wings. I am NOBTS alumni and I am a fourth grade teacher on the northshore. I love Oklahoma Sooners, Mexican food and Diet Dr. Pepper!
Teaches: “Basic Christian Doctrine and Worldview.”
Page Mathias
Teacher
ABOUT
I am wife to Greg (30 yrs) and mama to 4 teen/young adult daughters which keeps life full of trips to coffee shops, lots of photo moments, and listening to Spotify play lists in the car & kitchen. My passion is to help NOBTS and Thrive ladies experience the joy of reading God’s Word, enjoy walking with God through different seasons of life, and develop a heart for sharing the gospel here & among the nations. I love living in New Orleans and experiencing the art, music, food, culture, and chats with the variety of people who live here.
Teaches: “Christian Missions & Ministries”
Brooke Newsom
Teacher
ABOUT
Brooke and her husband Blake have been married and serving together in ministry for 20 years. They have 3 beautiful children, ages 15, 12, and 10. Brooke enjoys serving her family by supporting her husband’s teaching and preaching ministry and homeschooling her children. She also loves to teach women and encourage them as they prepare for ministry, serve their families, and participate in the life of the local church. She desires to see women faithfully worship God and experience the joy of serving him in every aspect of life.
Teaches: “New Testament Survey” and serves as the Flex grader for online courses
Laura Riley
Grader
ABOUT
For 35 years I have enjoyed serving in ministry alongside my husband Jeff, first as a student’s wife, then as a pastor’s wife, and now as a professor’s wife. After homeschooling our two sons and serving as the homeschool coordinator, I went back to school and graduated from NOBTS with a MA in Missiology. I am passionate about tea and scones, ministry to international students, and encouraging women through prayer. I serve as the state coordinator of Louisiana for Moms in Prayer International (MPI) and as the Country Coordinator for MPI Ethiopia.
Serves as “Room Mom” for on-campus Thrive courses
Amy Williams
Teacher
ABOUT
At NOBTS, I am the managing director of the Museum of the Bible and Archaeology where I get to educate visitors about the history of the Bible and the Biblical context. Also, I currently have the privilege of serving the local church with my husband as pastor’s wife at Williams Blvd Baptist Church in Kenner, La. We have served with the International Mission Board, and with the North American Mission Board, as church planting missionaries and strategist. As a woman called to serve along side my husband in ministry, it is a pleasure to participate in Thrive program where other women are also being equipped to serve the Lord and the church well.
Teaches: “Evangelism and Disciplemaking for Ministry Wives” and “Old Testament Survey”
DeeDee Williams
Teacher
ABOUT
Motivated by a deep commitment to serve the church with excellence, DeeDee holds a Master of Divinity in Biblical Languages from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. in Biblical Theology. She is a dedicated bible teacher and writer, serving as an adjunct professor for Leavell College(NOBTS) through the Women’s Prison Program, a teacher with the LifeWay Women’s Academy, and as an instructor for the Gospel Coalition Women’s Initiative. To learn more about her ministry, visit www.scholarish.org.
Teaches: “Basic Christian Doctrine” and “Understanding the Grand Narrative of Scripture”
FAQs
What do I have to do in each class?
Each Thrive course will have the same requirements, so that there is consistency in structure throughout the certificate. Each course will have 1 textbook and the students will be required to attend and participate in class, write a 1-page book summary, and write a 3-5 page reflection paper.
Is this an academic program?
This certificate is offered as an academic program through Leavell College. To complete Thrive: A Ministry Wives Certificate, each student must complete the 8 required courses, each of which is worth one credit hour. Since these are offered every 8-weeks, on a rotating schedule, a student will be able to complete two courses per semester and the entire 8 credit hour certificate in 2 years. Once a student has completed all 8 courses, she is eligible to graduate during the December or May graduation ceremony and will receive her certificate.
Can I transfer my Thrive classes into other degree programs?
A student who has completed her Thrive certificate can transfer those hours into any degree program. Click here for pathways to degrees.
How much does it cost?
The tuition for each Thrive class is $200 for SBC students (or $300 for nonSBC students). If you choose to participate in the NOLA2U Flex (Online) Thrive classes, you will be charged an additional $80 internet program fee per class.
If you’re the wife of a current student, then your application fee, tuition, and childcare is completely covered, free of charge! This is because of two very generous endowments honoring Ann Allen & Mary French. It is their desire that wives be trained for ministry alongside their student-husbands with little to no cost. Wives of current students will be charged the full cost of Thrive classes when registered, and the tuition scholarship will be applied to your account after the course add/drop period for that term. (Please note: the Internet program fee is not covered by scholarship for NOLA2U Flex/Online.)
If your husband is not a current student, you are still welcome to take Thrive classes, but the above tuition scholarships wouldn’t apply. There is also no childcare available in this option, and a $40 application fee will be charged to enroll in the program.
Is there any financial aid available?
Yes! Right now, in addition to the Mary French and Ann Allen endowments, we have a scholarship for African American students. Click here to learn more!
We also have full scholarships available for the wives of Caskey students (https://www.nobts.edu/
If you are already a ministry wife serving in Louisiana, there are a couple scholarship options. Just click here for the first and click here for the second, to apply for these scholarship through the Women’s Ministry and Missions Branch of the Louisiana Baptist State Convention. They are offering all current ministry wives in our state, a $100 scholarship per course- That is a 50% savings, bringing the tuition from $200 to $100 per class!
Since we are working to raise more money for financial aid for our Thrive students, this FAQ will change periodically. Please keep checking back!
How can I succeed in the program?
Click here for a printable checklist of classes and other important reminders.
Why is it free for spouses of residential NOBTS/LC students?
- Learn more about Mary French: Mary French was a godly ministry wife. She faithfully served the Lord alongside her husband Dr. Tommy French for 56 years. She came to know the Lord at the age of 7 and married at the age of 21. She was the pastor’s wife of Baptist churches in Texas and Louisiana. She loved other ministry wives and encouraged them to use their own spiritual gifts in ministry through the local church.
- Learn more about Ann Allen: Ann and Ray Allen have a heart for ministers’ wives. Married for over 50 years, Ray received his pastoral training here at NOBTS and then served in a variety of churches in Mississippi. His wife Ann was always supportive and by his side. Knowing the many struggles of pastors’ wives, Ann and Ray wanted to begin this scholarship fund to help student spouses to be trained alongside their husbands for ministry.
- Would you also like to give toward the Ministry Wives Program here at NOBTS?
How do I sign up for childcare?
Can I participate in Thrive even if we aren’t in seminary?
Yes! We desire to train ANY ministry wives that God brings to us! If you are local to New Orleans, you are welcome to attend class in person. If you are in a different part of the state or country, you can participate online.
Do Thrive classes count toward IMB spouse requirements?
Yes! The 8 Thrive classes (and the additional 4 in the “Thrive +” Program) fulfill all theological requirements for spouses to serve with the International Mission Board. Click here to learn more.
How do I apply?
Just click here.
What do I select during my application?
Once you’ve begun your application, under the Academic Plans, you’ll choose “Certificate” as your Program. For your Degree, you’ll select “Church Leadership Certificate.” And your Program Version will be “Thrive: A Ministry Wives Certificate.”
From there, just complete the rest of your application!
Each semester, Thrive kicks off with a “Date Night.” It is our goal to enrich and cultivate the marriages of our students while they are in seminary, so that they can create habits that will last in ministry. These date nights feature faculty and their wives, discussing pertinent topics to marriage. Email Tara (thrive@nobts.edu) to learn more!
