René Velarde

Credentials: BS, Indiana Wesleyan University / MA, Fuller Theological Seminary / PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary (Present)

Denomination: Non-Denominational

Specific Field: Missiology

Biography: 

René Velarde grew up in Salinas, California—an agricultural community where his Mexican immigrant family settled. As the first in his family to graduate college, Velarde brings to his scholarship 15 years of church leadership experience as a pastor. He also built a successful 10-year business helping non-profits improve their digital presence. Now pursuing his PhD at Fuller Theological Seminary, Velarde studies how racial experiences shape how Latine-Californians understand “peace” and “well-being” (what the Bible calls “Shalom”). His research listens to Latine voices to uncover how racial stress affects their spiritual and emotional health. Through in-depth conversations and careful analysis, Velarde aims to bridge divides in churches and communities by revealing patterns of racial trauma often overlooked in mainstream settings. His work offers practical insights for faith leaders, counselors, and community builders seeking to create more inclusive, healing spaces for people from diverse backgrounds.