GREENEVILLE – A Tusculum University leader has been selected to participate in a prestigious multidisciplinary seminar for full-time faculty members that fosters the growth of interfaith understanding.
Dr. Ronda Gentry, who serves as executive director of student persistence and engagement and assistant professor of religious studies, is one of only 25 faculty members in the nation to be chosen for the seminar, which will be held in late spring at DePaul University in Chicago. The seminar is a joint venture of the Council of Independent Colleges, of which Tusculum is a member, and Interfaith Youth Core.
Dr. Ronda Gentry
“The seminar will broaden faculty members’ knowledge and perspective to help them strengthen the teaching of interfaith understanding, develop new courses and other resources and expand the network of faculty members who are committed to teaching this subject,” the CIC said.
“On many campuses, interfaith activities are expanding, drawing increased attention from students, campus staff and administrators and faculty members. The 2019 seminar will examine how interfaith understanding can be taught effectively in the college classroom so that students are equipped for interfaith engagement and leadership both in the classroom and beyond.”
Dr. Madison Sowell, Tusculum’s provost and vice president for academic affairs, recommended Dr. Gentry, an ordained Baptist minister, for the seminar. He said she has been instrumental in establishing the university’s interfaith initiatives.
“We have been extremely impressed with Dr. Gentry’s collaborative approach to engage with the Tusculum family and the community on this important subject,” he said. “Through this seminar, Dr. Gentry will enhance our efforts with the latest best practices and develop programs that will have meaningful impact for our students.”
Dr. Gentry said the seminar will help her mesh the different aspects of her vocational calling.
“I want to work with students as they discern their own faith journeys while also seeking ways to help them develop an understanding of and respect for other faith traditions,” she said. “Our students often find employment in fields and geographic locations where they will encounter individuals of differing faith perspectives. It is imperative for us as an institution to prepare our students to navigate these situations in a respectful way.”
Dr. Gentry holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Campbell University in Buies Creek, N.C.; a master of divinity from the Duke University Divinity School in Durham, N.C.; and a doctorate in interdisciplinary studies, with a concentration in ethical and creative leadership, from Union Institute and University in Cincinnati.