Rev. Warren E. Covell

09 Apr Rev. Warren E. Covell

While serving as chair of a Conference Board of Global Ministries, Rev. Warren Covell was introduced to Africa University through a challenge.  The 2000 Northeastern Jurisdictional Conference of The United Methodist Church challenged each annual conference in the jurisdiction to endow a full scholarship at Africa University.  The North Central New York (now Upper New York) Annual Conference accepted the challenge and raised funds to endow a scholarship. 

Warren and his wife, Phyllis, personally made their first commitment to Africa University during this campaign. In making the gift, Warren noted the significance of equipping new leaders.  At that time, he shared, “I want to see Africa University become a great institution making a strong contribution to the leadership pool on the African continent.” 

Warren’s life theme of supporting mission and outreach continued, as he served on the Upper New York task force that has raised funds for multiple endowed scholarships.  As his passion for Africa University grew, he envisioned the transformative role the university played in shaping future leaders.  A second planned gift designation served to reinforce his vision for leadership development across Africa. 

Warren once stated, “Charitable giving is part of my DNA.”  These words were underscored multiple times in his support of Africa University. With his passing in 2023, Rev. Warren Covell’s legacy of faith, service to missions and generosity are fulfilled and secured.