Abilene Professor Receives Gerson Memorial Prize
Brad East earns the 2026 Michael J. Gerson Memorial Prize for his work on faith and public life.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Christianity
Abilene Christian University associate professor Brad East has been awarded the 2026 Michael J. Gerson Memorial Prize. The honor recognizes East for his meaningful contributions to national conversations regarding faith, public life, and justice.
Why it matters
The prize honors emerging writers whose work reflects a commitment to human dignity and intellectual thoughtfulness, continuing the legacy of late columnist Michael J. Gerson.
The prize includes a $10,000 cash award and additional mentorship. This honor follows East being named Abilene Christian University's Teacher of the Year in 2022 and his receipt of the 2024 Christianity Today Book Award.
The players
Brad East
He is an associate professor of Bible, missions, and ministry at Abilene Christian University.
Michael J. Gerson
He was a Washington Post columnist and White House speechwriter who passed away in 2022.
The Trinity Forum
This is a non-profit organization established in 1991 that hosts conversations on faith and culture.
The details
The award was presented during a Trinity Forum Evening Conversation held at the National Press Club. A committee selected East for his ability to integrate Christian faith with rigorous intellectual inquiry into societal issues.
Timeline
1991: The Trinity Forum was established.
2007: Brad East graduated from Abilene Christian University.
2022: Michael J. Gerson died and East was named Teacher of the Year.
2024: East received the Christianity Today Book Award.
October 13, 2026: The Gerson Memorial Prize was presented to East.
Culture Shift
The presentation of this prize follows the pattern set by The Trinity Forum, which has long facilitated high-level intellectual discourse on religion and culture. This recognition highlights a broader societal focus on finding bridges between academic Christian thought and the public square.
The recognition of a local professor brings national attention to Abilene Christian University's academic programs. Residents may see increased visibility for the school's ongoing contributions to theology and public debate.
The takeaway
Supporting intellectual discourse can help bridge the gap between private faith and public responsibility. Emerging writers are encouraged to seek out platforms that champion thoughtful engagement with complex social issues.
Further reading
Learn more about the academic and cultural landscape at Christianity.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Abilene Reporter-News.
