John Roberto to receive Honorary Doctorate; Rev. Dr. Linda Yates and Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray named University Associates

HALIFAX, N.S. – On May 9, 2026, Atlantic School of Theology (AST) is set to celebrate more than just the graduation of its Class of 2026. The university will also cast a spotlight on three extraordinary individuals whose lives embody the values of the school.

John Roberto will receive the degree of Doctor of Divinity (honoris causa), while The Rev. Dr. Linda Yates and Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray will be named Associates of the University.

John Roberto: A Legacy of Lifelong Faith Formation

John Roberto serves as Executive Director of the National Community of Catechetical Leaders (NCCL) in the U.S. He has spent a lifetime working in faith formation—teaching, writing, researching, consulting, and developing program resources.

He founded Lifelong Faith Associates in 2006 to help leaders and congregations develop lifelong faith formation through workshops, courses, webinars, symposium programs, and a series of theory and practice books on faith formation.

“Over the decades, I have been blessed to work with tremendously gifted, talented, and committed colleagues in faith formation – within my Roman Catholic world and across Christian Churches,” shared Roberto. “Partnering with them to create innovative ways to make lifelong faith formation a reality in churches has been the most important – and most enriching – part of my ministry."

“I am very grateful to Atlantic School of Theology for selecting me to receive this Honorary Doctorate and affirming the contributions I have made in faith formation,” added Roberto.

“For me, this is also a recognition of the importance of lifelong faith formation for every congregation and the work of their leaders to form people in a life-giving and life-transforming faith for a lifetime.”

Rev. Dr. Linda Yates: A Masterclass in Servant Leadership

Rev. Dr. Linda Yates most recently steered the university through a pivotal era of change, chairing both the Board of Governors and the Presidential Search Committee. From her early days as a sessional lecturer to her mammoth volunteer undertaking as Chair of the Board of Governors, Yates’ career at AST has been a masterclass in servant leadership. She remains a dedicated mentor to students and a tireless strategist for the school’s future.

Yates has spent her career helping students, colleagues, congregants, and community organizations adaptively move through transition. She was the first President of the renewed Atlantic School of Theology Integrated Alumni Association.

“In all the tumultuous situations I have ever found myself as a minister, teacher, or volunteer, one thing has always been apparent to me: AST trains students to walk toward the crises,” shared Yates.

“They pray, feed, counsel, organize, protest injustice, and rejoice in small moments of healing. This is the work of Christ. How could I not support the theological school that makes so much of it possible?”

Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray: A Partnership Rooted in Generosity

Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray has been a true friend to the AST community. Rob has offered more than just strategic counsel; he has offered a partnership rooted in generosity. His formal ties to the AST Board began as an ex-officio member during his tenure as President of Saint Mary’s University. Rob’s willingness to never refuse a request for help, his selfless pattern of behaviour—marked by a constant readiness to share expertise on financial sustainability and institutional growth—has been a cornerstone of AST’s progress. Rob has also championed AST’s voice within the Association of Atlantic Universities.

“Being named an Associate of Atlantic School of Theology is humbling, and I hope it reflects the strength of the partnership between AST and Saint Mary’s University,” shared Rob.

“AST is a unique interdenominational learning institution – and I’m honoured to have been able to serve both universities in advancing their missions of discovery, intercultural learning, and community engagement.”

Reflecting the Mission of AST

Commenting on these recognitions, Rev. Dr. Heather McCance, President of AST shared, “John, Linda, and Rob show us what we aspire to be – a university that shapes faithful leaders, a place striving to be of service to church and world, and an ecumenical community where all are invited to share their gifts. In accepting these honours, they truly honour us.”

Event Details: The Convocation ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 11. a.m. at Cathedral Church of All Saints in Halifax. The event will also be available for public viewing via a live stream.