Leading in the Borderlands
From historic firsts to lasting institutional change, Rev. Dr. Daisy L. Machado's leadership reshaped theological education for future generations.
~3 min read
What does it mean to lead in the borderlands?
For Rev. Dr. Daisy L. Machado (1996-1999 HTI Director), it means opening doors that did not previously exist and building bridges so others can cross them. As Dr. Machado retires after more than three decades of leadership in theological education, she leaves a remarkable legacy of scholarship, institution-building, mentorship, and public witness that transformed the landscape for Latine scholars and leaders. Dr. Machado was the first Latina ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the first US Latina Protestant to earn a PhD in Religion from the University of Chicago. She also became the first Latina to serve as academic dean at both Lexington Theological Seminary and Union Theological Seminary, and the first Latina to receive an honorary doctorate from Drew University.
For Rev. Dr. Daisy L. Machado (1996-1999 HTI Director), it means opening doors that did not previously exist and building bridges so others can cross them. As Dr. Machado retires after more than three decades of leadership in theological education, she leaves a remarkable legacy of scholarship, institution-building, mentorship, and public witness that transformed the landscape for Latine scholars and leaders. Dr. Machado was the first Latina ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the first US Latina Protestant to earn a PhD in Religion from the University of Chicago. She also became the first Latina to serve as academic dean at both Lexington Theological Seminary and Union Theological Seminary, and the first Latina to receive an honorary doctorate from Drew University.
Her scholarship has consistently explored the concept of “borderlands” — not only geographic borders, but the spaces where cultures, faith, migration, community, and identity meet. In many ways, her own vocation reflected that vision: moving between church, academy, and nonprofit leadership to create pathways for future generations.
As the first director of the Hispanic Theological Initiative and later Executive Director of the Hispanic Scholar Program, Dr. Machado helped shape institutions dedicated to expanding opportunities for Latine scholars and pastors in theological and religious education.
Yet perhaps her greatest legacy is not simply what she accomplished, but what she made possible for others. Throughout her leadership, Dr. Machado demonstrated that transformative work is built in and through community—with courage, hope, and faith strong enough to navigate difficult waters while trusting that God’s Spirit remains present above them (Genesis 1:2).
— Rev. Dr. Joanne Rodríguez
Her legacy reminds us that theological education is not only about preserving knowledge. It is about creating new futures, expanding who belongs, and building bridges wide enough for others to follow.
Even in retirement, Dr. Machado's influence will continue to reach far beyond the borderlands she helped us reimagine. ¡Mil gracias, hermana!
Open Doors for Future Scholars
HTI recognizes leadership that reshapes theological education through scholarship, mentorship, and institutional change.
Give Today →