Thomas J. Boyd Chapel

About Us

The chief aim of Shaw University is to provide you with an educational setting where character grows with knowledge and where religion and learning can go hand-in-hand. The mission of the Thomas J. Boyd Chapel is to create an environment where a student’s religious commitment can be enhanced and authenticated. The Chapel is also a resource to help face issues you may confront during various stages of growth and development.

The Thomas J. Boyd Chapel exposes students to Christian doctrine while delving into the meaning of the Holy Scripture. Serving as an integrating force while offering a perspective bringing together academic, social and spiritual development, the Chapel is a cornerstone of our community, fostering unity, reflection, and holistic growth for all students.

Contact Us

Dr. LaMont Johnson, Sr., D.Min., Ph.D.
University Chaplain
Assistant Professor of Practical Ministry, Preaching and Worship

lamont.johnson@shawu.edu
919-546-8558

The History of Thomas J. Boyd Chapel

After World War II, the United States military had a surplus of wood framed “temporary” chapel buildings which were being made available to the civilian sector. Shaw University applied for one of these chapels and it was received from Camp Sutton. The Thomas J. Boyd Chapel at Shaw University was first dedicated on June 15, 1948.

In 1993, the Thomas J. Boyd Chapel was completely renovated with re-dedication ceremony taking place on November 21, 1993. This was all made possible through funds donated by Dr. Thomas J. Boyd, a 1948 Shaw graduate for whom the chapel was subsequently named. Dr. Boyd, born in Brooklyn, New York, was active on campus during his time at Shaw and served as the student body president during his senior year. While at Shaw, he assumed the pastorate of Pleasant Plains Baptist Church in Ahoskie, North Carolina. Later, he would return to New York to serve as the pastor of Salem Missionary Baptist Church in his hometown of Brooklyn. He served as pastor of Salem for 45 years until his retirement in 2006. Dr. Boyd remained a strong supporter of Shaw, initiating a lecture series in honor of his late mother Bessie Boyd Holman, and contributing to various Chapel events, programs, and seminars.

Presently, the Thomas J. Boyd Chapel functions as a sanctuary of learning for all Shaw University students, enabling you to strengthen and elevate your religious devotion and practices.

View the Thomas J. Boyd Chapel