Stained-Glass Mosaic of George Washington Williams Unveiled
On Thursday, January 15, 2026, Andover Newton Seminary at Yale Divinity School unveiled a glass mosaic of George Washington Williams in The Living Village that not only recognizes his historic significance to our great institution, but also Andover Newton Seminary’s contribution to The Living Village.
Williams is an 1874 alumnus of Newton Theological Institution - now Andover Newton Seminary at Yale Divinity School - and the institution’s first African-American graduate. He was a decorated soldier, accomplished historian, and respected minister who fought the oppressive institutions of slavery and imperialism through many forms of community leadership. His ministry serves as an example of how Christian faith can change a life and change the world.
Michael A. Skrtic, a local artist from Seymour, Connecticut and owner of Glass Source Studios, created the stained-glass portrait as a meditation on light. Whereas The Living Village brings together natural elements of water, earth, and light, the portrait channels light through glass and refracts it into different colors, symbolizing the renewal, witness, and enduring vitality of George Washington Williams’ legacy.
The stained-glass portrait also embodies a material cultural history. A portion of the stained glass, specifically the pieces that comprised the sun, the halo around Williams, and the cross, all came from a window pane in the front door of Colby Chapel, Newton Theological Institution’s original place of worship.
On the occasion, Founding Dean Sarah B. Drummond stated, “Although we intend to bless the stained-glass portrait of George Washington Williams when alums gather in the fall, we didn’t want current residents of the Living Village to walk past a blue curtain hiding this masterpiece for months. The art is too beautiful, and George Washington Williams’ multifaceted ministry too inspiring. His story was hidden from view for too long already.”
The unveiling occurred before an intimate audience of faculty, staff, and students. Presenters included Dean Drummond; Rev. Dr. Braxton D. Shelley, the inaugural George Washington Williams Endowed Faculty Chair; Dr. Gregory Mobley; Dr. David C. Smith; Associate Dean, Rev. JaQuan Beachem; and current student Drake Smith. The formal dedication of the stained-glass mosaic will be held during the Fall 2026 semester.
Photo Credit: Moriah Felder
The Pulpit Supply Program provides students with an opportunity to hone their homiletical skills, to practice worship leadership, and to create connections and community with churches in need of worship support. 
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