Rev. Dr. Courtney V. Buggs is and incoming Director of the PhD Program in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric at Christian Theological Seminary (CTS), in Indianapolis, and the Assistant Professor of Homiletics. She earned a PhD in Religion from Emory University, focused on Homiletics; a Master of Divinity from Candler School of Theology; a Master of Public Administration from University of Oklahoma; and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology from Louisiana Tech University.

Dr. Buggs’ research interests center on ecumenical practices of sacred proclamation, both inside and outside the pulpit; womanism; and liberative teaching practices. She has published in Encounter, Homiletic, and Practical Matters, and the International Journal of Practical Theology and has contributed to Working Preacher and denominational resources.  Her most recent publication is a book chapter on womanist preaching.  She teaches a range of courses on preaching, including women and preaching, womanist preaching, and preaching racism, sexism, and ableism.

Dr. Buggs is a member of the Academy of Homiletics, presently serving as the President of the Black Caucus. She is ordained in the American Baptist tradition and has served congregations in the United States and abroad, ministering across denominations.  Prior to entering higher education, Dr. Buggs was an Air Force Airborne Mission Crew Commander, retiring from active duty as a Lieutenant Colonel, after almost 22 years of service.  She has been at CTS for four years.