On Not Having To Choose: Timothy Knight, PhD, Master of Arts in Marriage + Family Therapy student

 

Students are at the heart of Christian Theological Seminary, and they are also the fortunate recipients of the generosity from those deeply committed to theological education. This steadfast support helps shape future generations of theologians and counseling professionals. In this issue of CTS Connect, we are spotlighting student stories that reflect both their experiences and gratitude, showcasing the transformative impact of scholarship support. 

Timothy Knight arrived in Indianapolis at 17 in the late 1980s with little more than determination and faith. His mother had purchased him a one-way bus ticket and given him $745—just enough to cover three months of tuition at Aenon Bible College, some rent, and a bit of food. Despite experiencing homelessness for nearly three years, he never wavered in his commitment to education, ultimately graduating on time.

If that sounds like a lot, it is. And there’s more.

Knight built a distinguished career as a homicide detective, excelling in police oversight policy, community engagement, and leadership development. He also became a professor, earning a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Christian Theological Seminary (CTS) in 2006 and completing a PhD in Human Services in 2013. His policy work was implemented in at least three major metropolitan cities.

Then, he lost his job.

“I was too young to retire,” Knight reflects. “But I was in therapy with a CTS graduate, working through my employment challenges.”

During their sessions, the therapist suggested that Knight had the makings of an excellent therapist himself. However, returning to school seemed financially out of reach.

Still, he took a leap of faith.

He applied on Monday. By Wednesday, he had been awarded a scholarship. By the end of the week, he had been fully enrolled in the program.

Through his studies, Knight has discovered that therapy is a profession in which one grows and refines one’s craft over time.

“I can draw on all my lived experiences,” he says. “It’s the perfect space for someone like me.”

For Knight, the support he has received has been life-changing.

“For the first time in my academic journey, I can fully immerse myself in learning without the constant pressure of making ends meet,” Knight says. “In my previous programs, I always faced a choice: do I pursue true knowledge by engaging deeply with all the readings, or do I focus solely on completing assignments to earn the degree? Now, for the first time, I don’t have to choose.”