Dr. Tite Tiénou, the Tite Tiénou Chair of Global Theology and World Christianity, Research Professor of Theology of Mission, and Dean Emeritus of Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS), received the honorific title of Chevalier de l'Ordre de l'Étalon from the government of Burkina Faso in April 2025.
Dr. Tiénou received this distinguished honor alongside four members of the Christian and Missionary Alliance of Burkina Faso.
“Dr. Tienou is widely recognized as one of evangelicalism's leading theologians and missiologists whose influence spans the globe,” says Dr. Craig Ott, Professor of Mission and Intercultural Studies at TEDS. “It is most fitting that his country of origin has honored him with this significant award.”
The title, which translates to “Knight of the Order of the Stallion,” is the highest honorary distinction in Burkina Faso. The award recognizes personal merit and eminent civil or military service to the nation, according to the website for the Grand Chancellery of the Burkinabe Orders.
Dr. David Pao, Dean and Professor of New Testament at TEDS, said, “Dr. Tite Tiénou is a distinguished global theologian whose influence extends well beyond the academy. This honor further affirms his vital contributions in the public square. TEDS is proud to count Dr. Tiénou among our own.”