A Full-Circle Journey of Faith and Song: Featuring Perkins Alum Ronnie Chace Wilson

When Ronnie Chace Wilson (M.S.M. ’17) first began singing in his church choir as a child, he was immediately impacted by his choir director’s influence and powerful worship through music. Today, as Assistant Professor of Music (Voice) and Director of Choral Activities at Huston-Tillotson University, he embodies the spirit of Perkins School of Theology as he serves a greater purpose in fostering connections through divine art worship.  

A Calling Born in Worship 

Wilson’s love for music began in the church, where he witnessed how deeply worship through song could move people. 

“I recognized that my interest in music ministry extended beyond mere personal enjoyment; it represented a calling,” Wilson recalls.  

He saw music as a way to serve, connect, and uplift. That sense of purpose ultimately led him to Perkins, where faith and music would intertwine in life-changing ways. 

Finding Formation at Perkins 

Encouraged by a mentor who was a Perkins alum, Wilson joined the Master of Sacred Music program with a concentration in choral conducting. While attending, he answered his calling by integrating his musical education with spiritual growth.  

“The program shaped my understanding of music and vocation by improving my musical skills, engaging with different theological perspectives, and reflecting on how my gifts could serve ministry and community,” he said. 

He was most surprised by the enthusiasm for theological learning among both students and faculty, prompting him to explore theological ideas and perspectives he hadn’t considered. 

“The scholarly environment was inspiring, and the extensive knowledge shared in every class, discussion, and interaction motivated me to expand my understanding of ministry, church life, and leadership,” Wilson reflects.  

Mentorship that Transformed a Calling 

Coming from the coastline of Virginia and Baptist tradition, Wilson describes his “bapticostal” background as a blend of Baptist and Pentecostal traditions. At Perkins, he found himself challenged to explore new dimensions of worship and faith. Two professors, Dr. C. Michael Hawn and Dr. Christopher Anderson, became defining influences in Wilson’s development. 

“Their insights and teachings enhanced my knowledge and appreciation of the various traditions within Christian worship,” he said. “Their mentorship challenged me to grow both spiritually and musically, and that continues to shape my approach to ministry and performance.” 

That spirit of mentorship became the bridge between Wilson’s experience at Perkins and his own classroom today. 

A New Chapter at Huston-Tillotson University 

In August 2025, Wilson joined Huston-Tillotson University, a proud HBCU with deep ties to the United Methodist Church. For him, it was a natural continuation of his calling. 

“As an HBCU alum, I felt called to be here,” Wilson says. “The sense of community, faith, and artistry reminds me of what I found at Perkins.” 

Continuing his first semester at the university, he is already leading his students through ambitious projects. The Huston-Tillotson Concert Choir (HT Concert Choir) will embark on a multicity recruitment and performance tour, leading up to theAnnual HT Christmas Concert. Several members of the HT Concert Choir also performed at Austin City Limits as part of the Huston-Tillotson Jazz Collective.