Evanston, Ill. — Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary conferred an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree upon Roland Fernandes, general secretary of Global Ministries and Higher Education and Ministry during its 169th Commencement ceremony on May 9 in the Alice Millar Chapel on Northwestern University’s campus, honoring his years of leadership in global mission, education and humanitarian service in The United Methodist Church (UMC). 
 
“For several decades and on multiple continents, the leadership of Roland Fernandes has had profound and transformative impact, in the church and in the lives of communities and individuals,” said the Rev. Dr. Javier A. Viera, president of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. “As a layperson who understands his work as ministry, we honor him for his wise and bold stewardship of our key institutions, for his partnership in amplifying the church’s voice, role, and purpose in the most vulnerable communities around the world, and for the witness of his life lived in total service to God and to neighbor.” 
 
Fernandes was awarded his honorary degree by Garrett professor Dr. Hendrik R. Pieterse, who recognized his advocacy for the flourishing of God’s people and for his enduring example of service to the UMC. Dr. Hla Hla Aye (Caroline Mawia) also received a Doctor of Humane Letters at the ceremony. 
 
The president of GBHEM’s board of directors, Bishop Sandra Steiner Ball, celebrated this honor for Fernandes. “Roland has dedicated more than 30 years to the mission and ministry of Christ through The United Methodist Church – giving leadership to GBGM, UMCOR, and now GBHEM. He is a catalyst for the vision, support, education and training of United Methodist missionaries, educators, pastors, lay persons and relief workers around the world. Roland’s faithfulness and dedication bring transformation to denominational systems, communities, individuals, and the denomination. This honorary degree is a recognition and celebration of one of our great leaders who develops, encourages and empowers those whom God has called to be the Light, Hope and Life of Christ in this challenging, ever-changing world.”  
 
Bishop Sue Haupert-Johnson, president of Global Ministries’ board, added her praise. “I am delighted that Roland Fernandes has received this honor. Roland has committed himself fully to serving Jesus Christ and enriching the lives of others. He is a gifted and gracious leader of our church.”  
 
Bishop Hee-Soo Jung, who led Global Ministries’ board from 2012 to 2024 said, “This degree honors Roland’s longstanding stewardship of the denomination’s mission agency, Global Ministries, and the innovative thinking he now brings to his leadership at GBHEM. It recognizes his deep commitment to the church and humanity. I pray and give thanks for his authentic leadership daily.”  
 
In his address to the graduates, Fernandes urged them to remember their roots while embracing transformation in ministry. “It is one thing to be changed by experience, by faith, by education—but it is another to lose sight of where we come from,” he told graduates. “Today… I hope you will remember the roots that have grounded you and the journey that has brought you here.” 
 
Originally from Kolkata, India, Fernandes began his career as a missionary with Global Ministries, serving in India and the Philippines. A chartered accountant by training, he later transitioned into financial leadership roles within the agency. During his 30-year tenure at Global Ministries, he has guided the organization through periods of major transition, serving as interim general secretary and chief operating officer. He was named general secretary in January 2020, just a few months before the start of the pandemic, officially starting his role in September 2020. He assumed the unprecedented dual leadership role of Global Ministries and Higher Education and Ministry in 2024 and is now guiding operational and programmatic alignment for both agencies.  
 
Committed to service, Fernandes has founded several humanitarian agencies and served on numerous nonprofit boards. He and his wife, Liesl, live in Atlanta. 
 
In closing, Fernandes noted that with hearts filled with trust, openness and the flexibility to pivot, the graduates would experience learning, growth and even great joy through their lives. “May you remember your roots, may you be filled with a spirit of openness and trust, and may you go forth with a heart full of gratitude for what you have learned here at Garrett,” he said. “May you be ready to serve and lead wherever you are called to in the name of Christ.”