In this episode of Coffee and Conversation, hosted by Candler Career Services, we’re joined by Rev. Alisha Gordon (MDiv ’15)—an alumna whose vocational journey spans ministry, nonprofit leadership, politics, philanthropy, and social entrepreneurship.

Alisha reflects on her non‑traditional path after seminary, including her time as Executive Director of The Current Project, a nonprofit focused on the social and economic well‑being of Black single mothers. She shares why she chose to sunset the organization, how listening to intuition and Spirit has guided her “quantum leaps,” and what it means to honor calling and rest.

Recorded live with students, this conversation centers curiosity, courage, and integration—inviting listeners to see theological education not as a rigid track, but as spacious formation.

☕ In this episode, we explore:
• Navigating non‑traditional vocational paths after seminary
• Ministry beyond the church: nonprofits, politics, and philanthropy
• Curiosity as a spiritual and vocational practice
• Knowing when to pivot, pause, or let go
• Translating MDiv skills into nonprofit and secular work
• Networking, storytelling, and funding mission‑driven work
• Maintaining joy amid justice‑oriented and exhausting labor
• Bringing your whole self into seminary and beyond

Alisha offers deeply practical advice for current and prospective students—challenging them to resist shrinking themselves, take calculated risks, and trust that the skills cultivated in seminary are transferable far beyond traditional ministry roles.

Coffee and Conversation, hosted by Candler Career Services, creates space for alumni wisdom, student listening, and honest reflection on faith, work, and what it means to follow a calling that doesn’t come with a straight line.

Grab your coffee and join the conversation.