Reverend Ayana Teter

Rev. Ayana Teter is the Associate Dean for Students and Formation at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary after serving as the Director of Vocational Discernment and Placement within the institution. In addition to congregational and denominational service, Ayana had a five-year tenure as the Associate Executive Presbyter of Pittsburgh Presbytery. While serving as “pastor-to-pastors” and congregations Ayana developed deep connections to the 1001 New Worshipping Communities ministries of the denomination, as well as nurturing international missions, & racial justice ministries. Ayana brings that skill set to the spiritual care and nurture of ministry leaders in a higher-ed setting, working with students and ministry leaders to form future ministry leaders for a dynamically changing ministry landscape.

Ayana received her Masters of Divinity from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary where she was the 2006 recipient of the Rachel Henderlite Award for making significant contributions to cross-cultural relationships. Together with her husband, Ayana has previously co-pastored diverse congregations in Texas, New York, and Missouri and a currently a church plant that meets in their home. With extensive clinical training in individual, marriage and family psychotherapy Ayana also serves as a leadership coach to developing congregations. As part-owner of a congregational consulting company, Ayana works to equip non-profit organizations to live more faithfully into their God-given mission.

A life-long dancer, Ayana shares a passion for ballet, musical expression, partnering with God to grow edible things, and life-long learning, currently completing her Doctor of Ministry degree with a focus on Christian Spirituality and the black church. Ayana is married to Aaron–a fellow pastor, artist and musician. Together they are the proud parents of three elementary age children. They are building community and enjoying life residing on the western edge of the city of Pittsburgh.