A Morning of Inspiration at TISA’s Annual Breakfast at the 62nd Annual ISNA Convention in Chicago
On Sunday, August 31, the Islamic Seminary of America (TISA) hosted its breakfast at the 62nd annual ISNA convention, bringing together students, faculty, and community leaders from across the country. This year’s theme, From Sunnah to Service: Faithful Leaders for a Fractured World, set the tone for a morning dedicated to celebrating TISA’s unique role in cultivating faith-driven leadership in contemporary America.
Every seat was filled with attendees ranging from loyal supporters to new stakeholders eager to learn more about TISA. Founding board members, scholars, and representatives from institutions nationwide gathered in support of the Seminary’s mission. Sponsors Guidance Residential and Amana Mutual Funds were present, and the breakfast spread—from croissants, fresh fruit, and parfaits to muffins, coffee, tea, and fresh juices—created a welcoming environment for conversation. The TISA table, adorned with autographed books and opportunities for donations, drew eager attendees to enlist, engage, and learn more.
The program began with a heartfelt Quranic recitation by Brother Ashir Kirk, followed by reflections from TISA’s Board President, Dr. Iqbal Unus, and Dr. Alim Khandakar. Moderated by Abdullah al Mamun, TISA’s recently hired Chief Strategy Officer, the event showcased a series of talks and testimonials that highlighted both the Seminary’s past achievements and its ongoing relevance.
Dean Dr. Yasir Qadhi emphasized the vital importance of a seminary like TISA in addressing the unique challenges of practicing Islam in the West. While honoring the rich traditions of Islamic scholarship, Dr. Qadhi highlighted the need for context-specific guidance, training leaders who can address the spiritual, social, and cultural realities that Muslims face in contemporary American life. “We can honor traditional scholarship while also preparing leaders to navigate the realities of modern American society,” he said. “This is the work TISA is doing, and why it matters now more than ever.”
Ubaydullah Evans, the resident scholar at ALIM, and Dr. Rania Awaad, a visiting faculty member and psychiatrist at Stanford, spoke to the Seminary’s broader vision. Dr. Awaad reminded the audience of the vital role Muslims have played in the study of psychology, reclaiming the “study of the soul” at a time when much of modern psychology has lost its spiritual dimension. Brother Azhar Azeez brought a financial perspective, contrasting TISA’s growth with budgets of Ivy League institutions, and expressing pride in the Seminary’s progress.
Long-standing faculty and stakeholders also highlighted TISA’s collaborative and supportive community. Dr. Tamara Gray of Rabata emphasized the strength and longevity of her institution’s collaboration with TISA, reflecting on years of partnership and shared vision. Sr. Iesha Prime and Imam Zaid Shakir expressed their continued support for the Seminary, celebrating its role in shaping leaders grounded in faith and service.
Long-standing faculty and stakeholders, including Dr. Zainab Alwani, shared emotional testimonials highlighting TISA’s enduring impact and her work with the Journal of Islamic Faith and Practice.
Dr. Jimmy Jones, Executive Vice President, introduced two alumni and one student who shared their personal experiences. These students became living proof of the Seminary’s mission: Eugene Priester, a recent graduate and scholarship recipient, shared how TISA opened doors he had never imagined, while graduate and board member Attorney Nazish Mataiwala spoke of the leadership lessons guiding her ongoing service. Ch. Shazeeda Khan and Br. Tariq Yoonas was also present and played a vital role throughout the weekend.
Dr. Mona Islam shared an accreditation report, emphasizing TISA’s commitment to excellence.
Overall, the Annual TISA Breakfast at ISNA 62 was a strong show of support for TISA’s mission, bringing together hearts and minds dedicated to nurturing leaders grounded in tradition and prepared to serve a fractured world.
Watch the full event here: Program Part 1 Program Part 2