What does it look like to empower women to live out their God-given callings even from girlhood? In an interview that is a little different from our usual offerings, Amy & Rob Dixon join us on the podcast to discuss their new picture book entitled Penny Preaches. These authors talk frankly about some of the opposition they’ve experienced in launching this book as well as the hope they have for women in the church, plus some encouraging words for women in academia. And just for fun — you’re invited to enter IVP’s book giveaway! Head to 2well.us/penny before September 18 and fill out our book giveaway form to be entered into a drawing for one of four copies of Penny Preaches.

“Your education is not just about the knowledge-acquisition, it’s not just about the degree at the end, but it’s also about your formation. How would God speak to you through whatever class you’re in, whatever program you’re in, through the community of scholars you’re a part of? Be looking for that too.”

The work that Amy & Rob are doing through their picture book lays the groundwork for a world that offers a gentler on-ramp to young women as they pursue their callings. But the hard truth is that the path into scholarship and teaching remains treacherous for many women today. We’re reminded of Jamiella Brooks and her practical advice about navigating the culture of academia — wise words for grad students and faculty both. Let’s keep helping one another find our way, shall we?

I write to the new graduate student who must learn to navigate these waters, just as I write to the professor who mentors a student unfamiliar with these academic norms. We are in this together.

You’re Invited!

Pray with us. Join us online for 30-minute guided prayer meetings on Fridays at 8 am, 9 am, and 12 pm (Eastern). Can’t come? Send your prayer requests anyway by emailing us at wsap@intervarsity.org.

Faithful Politics — Fall Book Club. Join the Women Scholars and Professionals Fall 2024 Book Club as we discuss Faithful Politics (IVP 2024). Miranda Zapor Cruz helps us to envision what faithful citizenship looks like in light of being citizens of God’s kingdom. Click through to register!

IVP Faculty exam copies. Professors can request a free exam or desk copy for InterVarsity Press titles adopted for classroom use up to three times a year. Your free exam or desk copy will be sent to you within four weeks. Register for a professional account to access this benefit!

Are you an InterVarsity alum? Use promo code IVCFALUMNI to get a 25% discount at ivpress.com.

Calling all scientists! The American Scientific Affiliation will host an online “Faith & Work Accelerator” event for students and those in the early stages of their career on September 21 at 1:00 p.m. (eastern). Hear from a panel of scientists and campus ministers on connecting faith & work in science-related fields, then split into Zoom rooms to meet colleagues and/or mentors in your field area. Click through for more details and registration information.

Four More Things We Loved This Week

1. How to master small talk at work. (Washington Post, unlocked)

2. “And with each sock I put away, I trust that a sacred alchemy is unfurling.” One author and minister writes of the way household chores unlocked a deeper life. (NY Times, unlocked)

3. Why people love to hate pumpkin spice.

4. 100 Easy Dinners for Right Now. “Meal planning can be a slog. Let us help.” (NY Times, unlocked)