University Religious Life
About the Religious Life
As a Christian institution, Wilberforce University recognizes faith as an important part of the student experience. Religious Life provides opportunities for young women and men to strengthen their relationship with God, build meaningful connections, and discover how faith can guide their purpose, leadership, and service to others.
Students are invited to participate in chapel, Bible studies, discipleship programs, worship services, music ministry, community outreach, and other faith-building activities. Whether you are continuing your faith journey or looking for a welcoming place to learn and grow, Religious Life offers a supportive community where you can connect, serve, and become rooted in faith.
Rev. Dr. John E. Freeman: A Life of Faith, Service, and Leadership at Wilberforce University
Wilberforce University continues to be shaped by leaders whose lives reflect purpose, resilience, and service—none more so than Rev. Dr. John E. Freeman, Dean of Religious Life, Chaplain, and Professor.
Affectionately known as “Pastor John,” Dr. Freeman has dedicated decades to ministry, education, and community leadership. Since 2014, he has served Wilberforce University in multiple roles, including Dean of Religious Affairs, Chaplain, and Community Outreach leader. His impact has also extended into student development, having previously served as Vice President of Student Affairs, Dean of Students, Athletic Director, and Director of Residence Life.
Beyond campus, Dr. Freeman continues to serve as Pastor of Holy Trinity A.M.E. Church in Wilberforce, Ohio. He previously led United African Methodist Episcopal Church in Xenia, Ohio, and Central Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Yellow Springs, Ohio each for more than a decade, where his leadership fostered both spiritual and numerical growth. While in Yellow Springs, he also was the Head Coach of the Junior High basketball team. He served as the Pastor of Bethel AME Church, Oxford, Ohio. While in Oxford, Ohio, he was the Dean of Inter-Faith Campus Ministry at Miami University and was elected and served on Oxford City Council for four years. His commitment to ministry also led him to found “U R the Church,” a non-denominational outreach initiative focused on community engagement.
A proud alumnus of Wilberforce University, Dr. Freeman earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1995 before continuing his theological education at Payne Theological Seminary, where he received his Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio. His journey to higher education is deeply personal and rooted in a promise.
Following the tragic passing of his mother, whose final wish was for him to earn his college degree, Dr. Freeman fulfilled that promise by enrolling at Wilberforce. That moment became a defining turning point—one that shaped his lifelong commitment to education, faith, and service.
Throughout his career, Dr. Freeman has held numerous leadership roles across the region, including President of the African American Ministerial Alliance of Greene County and former owner of a local funeral home serving multiple Ohio communities. His influence also extends to media and mentorship, having served as a radio voice for daily devotionals and as a guide for students and community members alike.
In addition to his ministry and leadership, Dr. Freeman is also an author, sharing his personal journey and testimony through published works that inspire faith and perseverance.
When asked why students should attend Wilberforce University, his answer is simple and heartfelt.
“It is a great school,” he said. “I graduated from here—and so did my wife and daughter at the same time, which made national news.”
Dr. Freeman’s life is a testament to faith, perseverance, and purpose. His message remains clear and unwavering: “To God be the glory for the great things He has done.”
Through his leadership at Wilberforce University, Dr. Freeman continues to inspire students to pursue education, embrace faith, and live lives rooted in service and impact.
Contact Dr. Freeman at 937-708-5611
