A 2021 graduate of South University’s online Doctor of Ministry (DMin) program, Craig Currey has lived a life of service to his country, community, and church. Today, he uses the knowledge and skills gained in his DMin program as an Elder at Northeast Presbyterian Church in Columbia, South Carolina. He also leverages those skills as President & CEO of Transitions Homeless Center.
Transitions is a 260-bed facility in downtown Columbia that helps individuals stabilize their lives, increase their income, and secure permanent housing. They have helped over 3,000 individuals transition out of homelessness and into the next stage of their lives. As CEO, Craig oversees the organization’s programs, finances, facilities, community relations, staff, and development. In 2019, Craig received a Lifetime of Service Award from the Midlands Area Consortium for the Homeless.
Before joining Transitions in 2012, Craig served 34 years in the US Army, including assignments in Iraq, Korea, Germany, and Haiti. His final posting was as the Deputy Commanding Officer of Fort Jackson, where he is now a Fort Jackson Hall of Fame honoree. His awards include a Distinguished Service Medal for his time in the US Army and the Order of Saint Maurice (Primicerius Level) for lifetime achievement in the infantry.
Craig has also taught US History at West Point and believes in the power of education. In addition to attending South University, he has studied at the US Military Academy at West Point, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, and the US Army War College. “Education makes a person a critical thinker and better examiner of decisions and choices,” he says.
Craig decided to pursue a Doctor of Ministry degree at South University after working at Transitions for several years. As a leader in his church, he was interested in learning more about the Bible. Moreover, he realized that studying ministry could help him better serve his community and clients at Transitions.
“The final project [in the DMin program] enabled me to develop a Christian-based jobs program to tackle motivation problems with many clients in seeking and retaining their employment,” Craig shares. “The DMin faculty was excellent. They knew their material and helped students succeed in their courses.”
Eventually, Craig hopes to expand his impact to more organizations. He plans to continue working at Transitions for a few more years before retiring. He would then continue serving in the church as well as coaching and helping multiple nonprofits.
South University is proud of the work Craig is doing and thanks him for his extensive service!
*South University does not promise or guarantee employment. Testimonials have been provided by students/alumni in their own words and without coercion. This spotlight is based on information shared by Craig Surrey in 2024.
