Jilian Palmer

Church & Community Agent

Jilian Palmer, a native of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, chose Duke Divinity School for its strong theological foundation and the opportunity to explore the intersection of faith and societal issues. Through her studies, she is deepening her knowledge and passions by pursuing certificates in Theology, Medicine, and Culture, as well as Black Church Studies. Jilian envisions a future where her faith serves as a lens to better understand and engage with healthcare, politics, and community engagement, ultimately enriching both her ministry and her impact on the world.

Jilian’s commitment to community engagement and her focus on the hands-on, practical role of the church drew her to the Thriving Communities Fellowship and the Ormond Center. She believes that it is paramount that the church be a catalyst for positive change in the communities that they share, and she is delighted to be contributing to this transformative process.

After graduation from Duke Divinity School, Jilian hopes to channel her education and experiences into meaningful initiatives that contribute to the well-being of diverse communities.

In her free time, Jilian enjoys all things comedy, biking, rollerblading, and getting lost in psychological thrillers.