Q: I understand that you were a student at the University of Virginia. What about the University inspired you to become a professor here?\nA: Well, I very much appreciated the public nature of the University and the mission of the University of Virginia to pursue academic excellence and service to the common good. But, [I also appreciated] the excellence of the faculty, in not only the religious studies [department] but in the humanities.
Q: How long have you been teaching at the University?\nA: I was in Baltimore for 10 years after I finished my Ph.D. here in 1989, and I moved back to Virginia in 2000. I can't believe it, but it's my 10th year here. It's gone by so quickly and my children are all going away to college now.
Q: Why did you decide to teach for the department of religious studies?\nA: First of all, I had an offer ... It was, for me, an exciting opportunity for me to come back to the department where I completed my graduate training and be teaching not only inspiring undergraduate but also doctoral and graduate students - and become a part of the faculty that trains scholars and teachers in religious studies.
Q: You are the director of the research on Lived Theology at the University. Could you briefly explain your research? \nA: It is a research project that is also going into its 10th year [and] that seeks to build bridges between the academic community and real "life"
Read More
Queer Student Union showcases strength and spreads love
By Rosie Strickland | July 7, 2025This summer, QSU members say that the organization’s efforts to support the University’s Queer community extend far beyond the 30 days of June.
‘Don’t get too comfortable’: Words of wisdom for the incoming class
By Kate Johnson | July 4, 2025These fourth-year students offer their reflections on their first year at the University.
Navigating the University from near and far
By Amanda Chung , Mai Hukuoka and Dana Douglas | July 2, 2025As the 2025-26 school year inches closer, three Life writers came together to discuss their different perspectives as in-state and out-of-state students.
