Rev. Dr. Serena J. Rowan: A Journey of Leadership, Service, and Faith
Rev. Dr. Serena J. Rowan is a woman of strength, resilience, and unwavering faith. Her journey as a leader has been shaped by her profound commitment to service, education, and ministry. With an extraordinary thirty-year career in the United States Army, culminating in the esteemed rank of Sergeant Major (E-9), Dr. Rowan’s life is a testament to dedication, perseverance, and a calling to uplift others.
Personal Journey: Answering the Call to Leadership
Dr. Rowan’s leadership journey has been one of faith, resilience, and service. Growing up with a deep appreciation for community and faith, she was inspired by the leaders around her who blended action with purpose. Her military career solidified her belief that true leadership is not about power, but about service and the ability to uplift others.
Her transition from military service to spiritual leadership was a calling she could not ignore. She pursued theological education with determination, ultimately earning multiple doctorates in Chaplaincy, Pastoral Theology, Educational Leadership, and Divinity. These academic achievements were not simply personal milestones but a means to better serve her community and guide others in their spiritual journeys.
Dr. Rowan’s faith and education have fueled her mission to empower individuals to lead lives of purpose, courage, and integrity. Whether on the battlefield, in the classroom, or behind the pulpit, she has demonstrated that leadership is about inspiring and nurturing others to rise above challenges.
Key Accomplishments: A Life of Excellence
Dr. Rowan’s list of accomplishments is both vast and impactful. Some of her most significant milestones include:
- A Distinguished Military Career: Serving in the U.S. Army for thirty years, she led with discipline and integrity, mentoring and guiding countless service members.
- Academic Excellence: Graduating summa cum laude with a Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Theology, earning additional doctorates in Divinity, Chaplaincy, and Educational Leadership.
- Community Leadership: As an ordained, licensed minister, she has founded and led programs that focus on leadership development, mentorship, and faith-based counseling.
- Special Education Advocacy: Following her military career, Dr. Rowan served as a Special Education Teacher for 17 years, dedicating herself to empowering students with disabilities.
- Chaplaincy and Spiritual Guidance: Currently serving as a chaplain at SSM Saint Joseph’s Medical Center and Lutheran Senior Services, she provides spiritual guidance to individuals navigating critical life moments.
Her leadership extends beyond titles and accolades—it is reflected in the lives she has touched and the communities she has strengthened.
Overcoming Challenges: A Journey of Resilience
The road to leadership was not without challenges. Transitioning from military to civilian life, managing personal hardships, and navigating the responsibilities of ministry and education required immense resilience. Balancing faith, career, and personal obligations, Dr. Rowan faced moments of uncertainty, financial strain, and the pressures of leadership.
Yet, through it all, she remained steadfast, leaning on faith and perseverance to overcome each obstacle. By surrounding herself with mentors, maintaining a strong prayer life, and staying committed to lifelong learning, she emerged stronger, more equipped, and even more determined to serve.
Impact on Others: Inspiring Change and Transformation
Dr. Rowan’s influence has rippled through her community and beyond. She has:
- Mentored emerging leaders—empowering them to step into their callings with confidence.
- Advocated for education and inclusion—ensuring that individuals from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, receive the support they need.
- Led interfaith and social justice initiatives—bringing together diverse voices to foster unity and community-driven solutions.
- Provided spiritual guidance to those in need—helping individuals find strength, healing, and purpose in their lives.
Her impact is evident in the many lives she has guided, whether through counseling, mentorship, or her unwavering dedication to faith-based service.
Core Values and Leadership Principles
Dr. Rowan leads with:
- Faith: The foundation of her work, guiding her decisions and interactions.
- Integrity: Staying true to her values, ensuring that her leadership is honest and ethical.
- Compassion: Approaching every situation with understanding and care.
- Excellence: Striving for continuous growth and the highest standards in her endeavors.
- Service: Using her platform to uplift and empower others.
Advice for Emerging Leaders
To the next generation of leaders, Dr. Rowan offers this advice:
- Embrace Your Calling: Believe in your unique gifts and use them to serve others.
- Lead Authentically: Stay true to who you are, and let integrity guide your decisions.
- Never Stop Learning: Growth is essential—seek knowledge, mentorship, and wisdom continuously.
- Prioritize Balance: Leadership is a marathon, not a sprint. Take care of yourself so you can effectively care for others.
- Serve with Purpose: True leadership is about making a difference, not just making decisions.
Future Vision and Goals
Looking ahead, Dr. Rowan envisions expanding her ministry, growing her mentorship programs, and continuing to advocate for education and inclusion. She hopes to develop more resources for leadership training and faith-based community initiatives. Most importantly, she seeks to leave a legacy of empowerment, compassion, and unwavering faith.
Maintaining Balance: Faith, Family, and Leadership
Dr. Rowan understands the importance of balance. She prioritizes self-care, family, and spiritual growth alongside her leadership responsibilities. By setting boundaries, trusting her team, and making time for personal reflection, she ensures that her leadership remains impactful without overwhelming her well-being.
A Message to Readers
To the readers of She Emerge Magazine, Dr. Rowan shares this message:
“Your leadership journey is uniquely yours. Step into your purpose with faith, courage, and determination. The world needs your voice, your vision, and your impact. Embrace the challenges, uplift others, and never lose sight of the calling placed upon your life. Lead boldly, serve selflessly, and remember—your legacy is built not by the titles you hold, but by the lives you touch.”
About Rev. Dr. Serena J. Rowan
Rev. Dr. Serena J. Rowan is a distinguished leader, ordained minister, and retired U.S. Army Sergeant Major with over 30 years of service. She holds multiple doctorates in Divinity, Pastoral Theology, Chaplaincy, and Educational Leadership. Dedicated to mentorship, education, and community service, Dr. Rowan has impacted countless lives through her work as a chaplain, educator, and advocate. She currently serves as a chaplain at SSM Saint Joseph’s Medical Center and Lutheran Senior Services. With a commitment to faith, leadership, and service, Dr. Rowan continues to inspire and empower future generations to lead with purpose and integrity.