Distinguished Alums
Established in 1986, the Distinguished Alum Award is given to graduates of Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary who have made a lasting impact on the Church and society through outstanding professional, volunteer, or philanthropic accomplishments; and/or who have advanced the Seminary’s mission, thereby enhancing Louisville Seminary’s impact on the Church and future generations of students.
The First Decade Award is awarded to recent graduates who have made a significant impact on the Church and their community in the first five to nine years of ministry and service after their graduation from Louisville Seminary.
Distinguished Alums
2025 Distinguished Alum Award Recipient
Rev. Timothy Shapiro

The Rev. Timothy Shapiro, D. Min., was elected president of the Indianapolis Center for Congregations in 2003. An Indianapolis native, Shapiro previously served Westminster Presbyterian Church in Xenia, Ohio, and was a graduate of Purdue University and Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary.
"Timothy Shapiro brought rich and deep pastoral experience to this role," said Rev. Dr. James Wind, president of the Alban Institute and a member of the Center's board. Robert Scott, president of the Center's board, praised Shapiro’s "impressive skills as a public teacher, community leader, and practical theologian."
Tim has served as alumni-in-residence at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, a commissioner at the Presbyterian Church (USA) General Assembly, and studied family systems theory under Edwin Friedman. He is the author of “How Your Congregation Learns: The Learning Journey from Challenge to Achievement.” He also co-authored the book "Holy Places: Matching Sacred Space with Mission and Message."
2025 First Decade Award Recipient
Chandra Irvin

Chandra Goforth Irvin graduated from LPTS in 2015 with an M.Div. She also holds an M.Ed., is a minister, coach, facilitator, and consultant dedicated to fostering peace and wholeness in human relations. She retired as Executive Director of the Center for Peace and Spiritual Renewal at Spalding University but continues to guide individuals and organizations in applying restorative and spiritual practices for justice and reconciliation.
For over 25 years, Chandra has led Irvin, Goforth & Irvin LLC, helping clients clarify purpose, resolve conflicts, and build meaningful relationships. An ICF-certified life coach and expert in Polarity Management, she draws inspiration from Howard Thurman's teachings.
Chandra has authored and contributed to several works on peace, diversity, and leadership, including Do You See What I See?, Finding PEACE in Life, Work and Love, and And: Making a Difference by Leveraging Polarity, Paradox or Dilemma, Volume 2.