#  Graduate Profile: Cole Brent Cloyd, MTS '23  

 





May 11, 2023

 

 

     ![Cole Cloyd wearing a Harvard shirt](/sites/g/files/omnuum5526/files/styles/hwp_16_9__480x270/public/hds2/files/colecloyd_600x400.png?itok=yzKW-yxm) 

Photo courtesy of Cole Cloyd

 



 

**How I've Changed**

Since I've come to HDS, I've been pushed to get out of my comfort zone and asked difficult questions about my scholarship and faith. Since I study religious extremism and hatred, I've been encouraged to develop new ways of understanding the forces that threaten America. HDS has given me the tools and the passion for understanding and combatting these dangers, both as a scholar of violence and as a Christian. The faculty, staff, and students have all provided innumerable resources and support when it comes to becoming a better academic, person of faith, and activist. Despite how intimidating Harvard sounds, HDS always made me feel at home. HDS is one of the best places to study, and I don't think I could've succeeded anywhere else.

**Memorable Moment**

I won't ever forget being able to help out with [Diversity and Explorations](https://hds.harvard.edu/admissions-aid/diversity-and-explorations-program) (DivEx) 2022, especially the DivEx alumni panel. Being able to talk to prospective students and connect them with the various resources on campus is always heartwarming and exciting. Being a small-town Okie with autism, DivEx helped make sense of the chaos of grad school in the midst of Covid, so I am always happy to pay back that kindness.

**Favorite Class or Professor**

One of my favorite classes was Catherine Brekus' "Cities on a Hill: Images of America as Redeemer Nation." Here, we got to learn about and discuss the various religious perspectives of America across history. For me, seeing the role that religion played in understanding war at home and abroad remains some of the most striking material I've ever covered.

**Message of Thanks**

I have to thank the best family and friends anyone could've asked for. This list would go on forever if I named you all, but your support has kept pushing me forward. Thank you for all your sacrifices and support, who made this impossibility a reality. I also have to thank the professors and faculty who encouraged me across this academic journey: Kevin Madigan, Catherine Brekus, Jocelyne Cesari, Deonnie Moodie, Charles Kimball, Robb Young, Kayla Storrs, Margaret Okada-Scheck, and Odeviz Soto. Lastly, I want to thank Pastor Cody Sanders and all the folks at Old Cambridge Baptist Church for welcoming me into their home and showing me what a gospel-driven church looks like. Y'all are a gift from God and I could never say thank y'all enough.

**What I Hope to Be Remembered By**

People usually remember me as the guy who studies white supremacists, but I really hope people also remember me for my kindness and generosity. I've met so many wonderful people who will remain lifelong friends and mentors, so I hope I have treated y'all with the same kindness you've shown me. I hope that during my time here at HDS, I've lived up to that command to love God and to love others.



 

 

 



 

 See also:- [ Student Activities and Interviews ](/discover-stories-about/student-activities-and-interviews)
- [ Commencement ](/topic-tags/commencement)
- [ Commencement 2023 ](/topic-tags/commencement-2023)