Perkins was an internationally known author, speaker, and teacher on issues of racial reconciliation and Christian community development. He co-founded the Christian Community Development Association, which continues to support congregations and organizations working in communities across the country.
In 2004, President Emeritus Philip Eaton partnered with Perkins to launch the John Perkins Center for Reconciliation, Leadership Training, and Community Development (JPC) at ɬÀï·¬, the first on a college campus. Now named the John and Vera Mae Perkins Resource Center, the work and partnership have evolved over time. SPU continues to value the Center as a vital resource for advancing reconciliation and Christian leadership.
The JPC became a living legacy of Perkins' vision and commitment to reconciliation and community development. Over the years, hundreds of students participated in programs such as Urban Involvement, Latreia, In-Context, and CityQuest, as well as in trips to Mississippi where they met Perkins and learned firsthand from the work of the Perkins Foundation. Through these programs and partnerships with many nonprofit organizations, the JPC helped equip students to serve and engage the urban community in ɬÀï·¬.
SPU also partnered with the Perkins Foundation to produce the documentary, “.”
In an email to the SPU community, President Deana L. Porterfield wrote, "Throughout the past two decades, John blessed our campus with many visits. Each time, he challenged and encouraged us to live as reconcilers shaped by the gospel of Jesus Christ. As he often reminded us, 'The idea of the gospel is to burn through race, culture, barriers and to bring us together into one fellowship.'"
SPU will honor and celebrate Perkins in the coming weeks.
Posted: Friday, March 13, 2026