Mike Allen is from Shelby County, Alabama, and has lived most of his life in Alabaster, Alabama. He holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from Auburn University and an MBA from Samford University. Allen joined the MTS Board of Trustees in 2010 and served three terms, leaving in 2019. In 2025, he accepted another term.
Allen says, “Supporting MTS means working with other Board members to be sure that MTS meets its mission to cultivate faith leaders in the way of Jesus to serve the church and the world. I’m also called, not as a Trustee but simply as one who appreciates MTS’ mission, to support the Seminary prayerfully and financially.”
+ Tell us a little about yourself and your relationship with MTS.
I have been married to Marcia for 46 years and we have two children that have blessed us with four grandchildren. (All boys – ages 9, 7, 3 and 2 months.) I worked for over 40 years for Alabama Power in various areas of Transmission Planning, Operations and Construction. I retired in May 2025 so I would be freed up to do a better job of spoiling my grandchildren.
My relationship with MTS is as a long-time Cumberland Presbyterian. I have been a member of First Presbyterian (Cumberland) in Alabaster, Alabama for 50+ years. In my time there I have been pastored by seven different MTS graduates that have served as either Senior Pastor or Associate Pastor. Obviously, these are people that have had a tremendous influence on me, and gave me a great appreciation for the learning and growth that goes on at MTS.
+ How did you decide to support MTS as a member of the Board of Trustees? What does supporting MTS look like for you?
One of the aforementioned pastors recommended me as a Board member in 2010. I can’t say that, at that time anyway, it was a role that I had envisioned myself in. But, after prayerful consideration and counsel from some trusted friends, I accepted the call. It didn’t take me long to see what wonderful things MTS was doing not only for the CP Church, but for other denominations and for the Memphis community. I served three terms and left the Board in 2019. But just this year (2025) I agreed to serve again. This time I really didn’t hesitate.
Supporting MTS means working with other Board members to be sure that MTS meets its mission to cultivate faith leaders in the way of Jesus to serve the church and the world. I’m also called, not as a Trustee but simply as one who appreciates MTS’ mission, to support the Seminary prayerfully and financially.
+ Why would you encourage MTS alumni and community members to support MTS
I am constantly amazed when I look at the demographic information on students and faculty at MTS. MTS is not only ecumenical, but also truly diverse and inclusive in every sense of the word. I have sat in on classes and watched people from very different backgrounds actually LISTEN to each other and willingly learn from each other. This is so rare in today’s world, and I think is the key to lasting peace. This type of theological education needs and deserves our support.