FACULTY AND STAFF
Derrick Blackman
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B.A. Saint Leo University
M.A. Saint Leo University Derrick L. Blackman is a native Floridian, (Miami, FL). He is a retired U.S. Air Force veteran having served over 21 years of active duty, out of MacDill AFB. He holds a BA in Religion, with a minor in Psychology and an MA in Theology from Saint Leo University. He became a Certified Pharmacy Technician, graduating from Ultimate Medical Academy, FL. In addition to teaching as an Adjunct Instructor at Saint Leo University, he is an Ordained Minister and serves as the Church Administrator for Zoe International Faith Center. He is married and has three children. His hobbies include spending time with his family, drawing, and singing. |
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Dr. Dennis Feltwell
Ph.D. Duquesne University
M.A. LaSalle University
B.A. Holy Family University
Dennis Feltwell currently serves as Provost for the East Campus at Pasco-Hernando State College in Dade City, Florida. He joined the adjunct faculty at Saint Leo since January 2022. His research focuses on the role of religion in the public sphere to include law, politics, and culture.
He has written several articles and book reviews and coauthored a textbook on world religions.
A Philadelphia native, Dennis began his teaching career in math and science at elementary and high schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. He also served as parish Director of Adult Faith Formation there.
Dennis teaches courses in healthcare ethics, Christian spirituality, and church history for undergraduate and graduate students. Since 2015, he has also been a catechist for middle- and
high-schoolers at Saint Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church in New Tampa.
Dennis lives in Wesley Chapel, Florida with his wife Christine and three children.
M.A. LaSalle University
B.A. Holy Family University
Dennis Feltwell currently serves as Provost for the East Campus at Pasco-Hernando State College in Dade City, Florida. He joined the adjunct faculty at Saint Leo since January 2022. His research focuses on the role of religion in the public sphere to include law, politics, and culture.
He has written several articles and book reviews and coauthored a textbook on world religions.
A Philadelphia native, Dennis began his teaching career in math and science at elementary and high schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. He also served as parish Director of Adult Faith Formation there.
Dennis teaches courses in healthcare ethics, Christian spirituality, and church history for undergraduate and graduate students. Since 2015, he has also been a catechist for middle- and
high-schoolers at Saint Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church in New Tampa.
Dennis lives in Wesley Chapel, Florida with his wife Christine and three children.
Dr. Eugene J. Fisher, Distinguished Professor of Catholic-Jewish Studies
Ph.D. New York University
M.A. University of Detroit Mercy
Dr. Eugene J. Fisher is Distinguished Professor of Catholic-Jewish Studies at Saint Leo University. He has worked tirelessly for the reconciliation between Catholics and Jews. Ahead of his time, he affected change, directing Catholic-Jewish relations for the U. S. Conference of Catholic Bishops beginning in 1977 and as author of numerous works in the field. He has been a Consultor to the Holy See and a member of the International Catholic-Jewish Liaison Committee.
Twice nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, notably by professors of Hebrew University, he has been awarded the Anti-Defamation League’s Dr. Joseph L. Lichten Award in Catholic-Jewish Relations and the Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Award for his work in building bridges across the divisions between the two faiths. In his collaboration with Pope John Paul II, Dr. Fisher drafted the Pope’s 1987 speech to American Jewish leaders which pledged to join the Jewish people in their cry of “never again” regarding the Holocaust.
Dr. Fisher is an active member of learned and professional societies, such as the Catholic Biblical Association, the National Association of Professors of Hebrew, and the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL). He has lectured widely throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, Latin America and Australia. He has published over twenty-five books and monographs, and some 300 articles in major religious journals, many of which have been translated into French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Polish and German for publication in Latin America and Europe.
M.A. University of Detroit Mercy
Dr. Eugene J. Fisher is Distinguished Professor of Catholic-Jewish Studies at Saint Leo University. He has worked tirelessly for the reconciliation between Catholics and Jews. Ahead of his time, he affected change, directing Catholic-Jewish relations for the U. S. Conference of Catholic Bishops beginning in 1977 and as author of numerous works in the field. He has been a Consultor to the Holy See and a member of the International Catholic-Jewish Liaison Committee.
Twice nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, notably by professors of Hebrew University, he has been awarded the Anti-Defamation League’s Dr. Joseph L. Lichten Award in Catholic-Jewish Relations and the Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Award for his work in building bridges across the divisions between the two faiths. In his collaboration with Pope John Paul II, Dr. Fisher drafted the Pope’s 1987 speech to American Jewish leaders which pledged to join the Jewish people in their cry of “never again” regarding the Holocaust.
Dr. Fisher is an active member of learned and professional societies, such as the Catholic Biblical Association, the National Association of Professors of Hebrew, and the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL). He has lectured widely throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, Latin America and Australia. He has published over twenty-five books and monographs, and some 300 articles in major religious journals, many of which have been translated into French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Polish and German for publication in Latin America and Europe.
Dr. Isabel Fernandez
Ph.D. University of Dayton
M.A. Florida State University
M.S. Saint Leo University
B.A. Florida State University
Dr. Isabel Fernandez grew up in Miami, Florida. A product of the Catholic school system in the Archdiocese, she went to Tallahassee for undergrad, intending to be a high school ELA teacher. After falling in love with Religious Studies, she double majored in English and Religion and was recruited to continue her studies in the Religion Department and earned an M.A. in Christianity with a minor in Buddhism.
Dr. Fernandez went on to study in Dayton, Ohio, experiencing actual seasons for the first time since she grew up in Florida. As part of the inaugural class in UD’s Doctoral program in Theology, she explored theology from an interdisciplinary approach, studying ethics, the history of theology and sociology of religion as part of her course of study.
Dr. Fernandez relocated to Orlando, Florida and worked as a Congregation-based Community Organizer while researching and writing her dissertation about the intersection of lay ministry formation and community organizing leadership development frameworks.
Dr. Fernandez often teaches graduate courses for students in Diaconate formation in the Dioceses of Tampa or Orlando. A passion for the science of learning and design led her to go back to school to explore instructional design at Saint Leo’s through their MSID program, which she has now completed. When she is not working, Dr. Fernandez enjoys cycling and walking her awesome dogs.
M.A. Florida State University
M.S. Saint Leo University
B.A. Florida State University
Dr. Isabel Fernandez grew up in Miami, Florida. A product of the Catholic school system in the Archdiocese, she went to Tallahassee for undergrad, intending to be a high school ELA teacher. After falling in love with Religious Studies, she double majored in English and Religion and was recruited to continue her studies in the Religion Department and earned an M.A. in Christianity with a minor in Buddhism.
Dr. Fernandez went on to study in Dayton, Ohio, experiencing actual seasons for the first time since she grew up in Florida. As part of the inaugural class in UD’s Doctoral program in Theology, she explored theology from an interdisciplinary approach, studying ethics, the history of theology and sociology of religion as part of her course of study.
Dr. Fernandez relocated to Orlando, Florida and worked as a Congregation-based Community Organizer while researching and writing her dissertation about the intersection of lay ministry formation and community organizing leadership development frameworks.
Dr. Fernandez often teaches graduate courses for students in Diaconate formation in the Dioceses of Tampa or Orlando. A passion for the science of learning and design led her to go back to school to explore instructional design at Saint Leo’s through their MSID program, which she has now completed. When she is not working, Dr. Fernandez enjoys cycling and walking her awesome dogs.
Penny Freeman, Senior Academic Coordinator English, Fine Arts, Philosophy, Theology & Religion
Penny has a B.A. and M.B.A. from Saint Leo University and is a member of the Greater Dade City Chamber of
Commerce Board of Directors.
She loves to travel, read, and spend time with her family, especially her 3 grandchildren who keep her busy with baseball and fishing.
"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Philippians 4:13.
Commerce Board of Directors.
She loves to travel, read, and spend time with her family, especially her 3 grandchildren who keep her busy with baseball and fishing.
"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Philippians 4:13.
Glenn Hand
Glenn L. Hand holds both a B.A. and M.A. in Religious Studies from the University of South Florida.
He was a recipient of the Outstanding Senior Scholarship from the Religious Studies Dept. at USF in 2014 and a Graduate Teaching Assistant in its Graduate Program.
As a master's candidate his concentration was Early Christian Formation and Gnosticism.
He has held teaching positions in the Religious Studies Departments at the University of South Florida, Tampa, Hillsborough County Community College, South Shore, and Saint Leo University.
Mr. Hand is also an ordained Reverend at Rivers of Life Church Ministries in Brandon, Florida.
He was a recipient of the Outstanding Senior Scholarship from the Religious Studies Dept. at USF in 2014 and a Graduate Teaching Assistant in its Graduate Program.
As a master's candidate his concentration was Early Christian Formation and Gnosticism.
He has held teaching positions in the Religious Studies Departments at the University of South Florida, Tampa, Hillsborough County Community College, South Shore, and Saint Leo University.
Mr. Hand is also an ordained Reverend at Rivers of Life Church Ministries in Brandon, Florida.
Dr. THomas L. Humphries, JR.
Ph.D. Emory University
M.A. Catholic University of America
B.A. University of the South
Dr. Thomas L. Humphries is Assistant Professor of Theology at Saint Leo University and Assistant Director of the Saint Leo University Honors Program. An Arkansas native, he grew up camping in the Natural State and was the first member of his immediate family to go to college. He was fortunate to study in Tennessee, Washington, DC, and Georgia in the US, and internationally in Spain, France, and England. He married his wife Christine at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Atlanta, GA, and they live near Saint Leo, FL.
He is a specialist in the theology of Augustine of Hippo and of Christianity in late antiquity, with broad interests in Patristics, Theological Anthropology, Pneumatology, and Asceticism.
His recent book, Ascetic Pneumatology from John Cassian to Gregory the Great, is published with Oxford University Press. He has contributed "Augustine and the West to 650 AD" to The Oxford Handbook of Sacramental Theology, and "Prosper's Pneumatology: The Development of an Augustinian" in Grace for Grace: The Debates after Augustine and Pelagius, from Catholic University of America Press.
Dr. Humphries volunteers with Pasco County as a volunteer fireman, and plays rhythm guitar for the faculty-student band.
M.A. Catholic University of America
B.A. University of the South
Dr. Thomas L. Humphries is Assistant Professor of Theology at Saint Leo University and Assistant Director of the Saint Leo University Honors Program. An Arkansas native, he grew up camping in the Natural State and was the first member of his immediate family to go to college. He was fortunate to study in Tennessee, Washington, DC, and Georgia in the US, and internationally in Spain, France, and England. He married his wife Christine at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Atlanta, GA, and they live near Saint Leo, FL.
He is a specialist in the theology of Augustine of Hippo and of Christianity in late antiquity, with broad interests in Patristics, Theological Anthropology, Pneumatology, and Asceticism.
His recent book, Ascetic Pneumatology from John Cassian to Gregory the Great, is published with Oxford University Press. He has contributed "Augustine and the West to 650 AD" to The Oxford Handbook of Sacramental Theology, and "Prosper's Pneumatology: The Development of an Augustinian" in Grace for Grace: The Debates after Augustine and Pelagius, from Catholic University of America Press.
Dr. Humphries volunteers with Pasco County as a volunteer fireman, and plays rhythm guitar for the faculty-student band.
Dr. Allen Hunt
An author of multiple best-selling books, Allen earned degrees at Mercer (B.B.A.) and Emory (M.Div.) Universities. He then earned the M.A., M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees in New Testament and Ancient Christian Origins from Yale University.
His dissertation focused on the Apostle Paul and his understanding of divine inspiration.
While serving as an evangelical mega church pastor, Allen began a journey culminating in his conversion to Catholicism in 2008.
He and his wife, Anita, live in Georgia. They have two daughters, two sons-in-law, and seven grandchildren.
His dissertation focused on the Apostle Paul and his understanding of divine inspiration.
While serving as an evangelical mega church pastor, Allen began a journey culminating in his conversion to Catholicism in 2008.
He and his wife, Anita, live in Georgia. They have two daughters, two sons-in-law, and seven grandchildren.
Dr. Robert Imperato
Ph.D. Fordham University
M.A. Fordham University
M.A. Columbia University
B.S. New York University
Robert Imperato is Professor of Religion at Saint Leo University where he has previously served as Dean of Arts and Sciences. His research interests lie in the fields of the New Testament, historical Jesus research, the history of Christian spirituality, and the history of Christianity.
His interest in religion was sparked by practice of yoga while he was completing a masters degree in developmental psychology at Columbia University. This interest in mysticism led to 7 years as non-professed monk at the Abbey of Gethsemani. He left to study theology at Fordham University where he received the degrees of M.A. and Ph.D. He has taught at colleges in Kansas, California, New Jersey and Rome.
He has had a number of articles published and four books: Merton and Walsh on the Person (Wipf and Stock, 2014), Portraits of Jesus: A Reading Guide ( University Press of America, 2022), Early and Medieval Christian Spirituality (University Press of America, 2003), and Christian Footings (University Press of America, 2000, revised edition 2009).
"If any one imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know." (1 Corinthians 8:2)
M.A. Fordham University
M.A. Columbia University
B.S. New York University
Robert Imperato is Professor of Religion at Saint Leo University where he has previously served as Dean of Arts and Sciences. His research interests lie in the fields of the New Testament, historical Jesus research, the history of Christian spirituality, and the history of Christianity.
His interest in religion was sparked by practice of yoga while he was completing a masters degree in developmental psychology at Columbia University. This interest in mysticism led to 7 years as non-professed monk at the Abbey of Gethsemani. He left to study theology at Fordham University where he received the degrees of M.A. and Ph.D. He has taught at colleges in Kansas, California, New Jersey and Rome.
He has had a number of articles published and four books: Merton and Walsh on the Person (Wipf and Stock, 2014), Portraits of Jesus: A Reading Guide ( University Press of America, 2022), Early and Medieval Christian Spirituality (University Press of America, 2003), and Christian Footings (University Press of America, 2000, revised edition 2009).
"If any one imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know." (1 Corinthians 8:2)
Dr. Timothy Jussaume
Ph.D. Villanova University
M.A. Villanova University
B.A. College of the Holy Cross
Timothy Jussaume is Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Saint Leo University. He holds degrees in philosophy from Villanova and Holy Cross. He has broad interests across the history of philosophy with emphasis on 19th- and 20th-century European thought. In particular, his work explores existential and phenomenological approaches to ethics, metaphysics, and philosophy of religion. He has written on Heidegger, Levinas, Kierkegaard, Merleau-Ponty, and Wittgenstein.
In his free time, Tim enjoys hiking, cycling, fishing, and spending time with his family.
M.A. Villanova University
B.A. College of the Holy Cross
Timothy Jussaume is Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Saint Leo University. He holds degrees in philosophy from Villanova and Holy Cross. He has broad interests across the history of philosophy with emphasis on 19th- and 20th-century European thought. In particular, his work explores existential and phenomenological approaches to ethics, metaphysics, and philosophy of religion. He has written on Heidegger, Levinas, Kierkegaard, Merleau-Ponty, and Wittgenstein.
In his free time, Tim enjoys hiking, cycling, fishing, and spending time with his family.
Dr. Lily King
Ph.D. University of South Florida
M.A. Saint Leo University
B.A. University of South Florida
Lily is in the second year of her doctoral program at USF. She studies the history of medieval philosophy, and the philosophy of religion. Her particular interests include exploring the relationship between the will and the intellect, ontology of sin, and Christian soteriology.
Lily was born and raised in St. Petersburg Florida, where she attended St. Pete Catholic High. Her mother is one of 12 children, making her one of 40 first cousins. In her free time she enjoys being on the beach, watching Rays baseball, spending time with family, playing guitar, and being a snob about craft beer.
"Age quod agis."
M.A. Saint Leo University
B.A. University of South Florida
Lily is in the second year of her doctoral program at USF. She studies the history of medieval philosophy, and the philosophy of religion. Her particular interests include exploring the relationship between the will and the intellect, ontology of sin, and Christian soteriology.
Lily was born and raised in St. Petersburg Florida, where she attended St. Pete Catholic High. Her mother is one of 12 children, making her one of 40 first cousins. In her free time she enjoys being on the beach, watching Rays baseball, spending time with family, playing guitar, and being a snob about craft beer.
"Age quod agis."
Dr. DanIEL T. Lloyd
Ph.D. Marquette University
M.T.S. Weston Jesuit School of Theology
B.A. University of Scranton
Dr. Daniel T. Lloyd is Assistant Professor of Theology at Saint Leo University. Dr. Lloyd earned his MTS from Weston Jesuit School of Theology and his PhD from Marquette University. A Northeasterner by upbringing, Dan and his family live in the Charleston SC area, where he teaches at Saint Leo University's North Charleston Center.
His field of study is early Church history and theology. He is particularly interested in the Western Latin tradition up to the fifth century. Areas of research include Christology, Trinitarian theology, and the intersection between Greco-Roman philosophy and Christianity. Through his teaching for Saint Leo, he has also had the great fortune of engaging more contemporary theological issues. Most notably, one of his favorite topics to study and teach is the reestablishment of the permanent diaconate in the Catholic Church.
M.T.S. Weston Jesuit School of Theology
B.A. University of Scranton
Dr. Daniel T. Lloyd is Assistant Professor of Theology at Saint Leo University. Dr. Lloyd earned his MTS from Weston Jesuit School of Theology and his PhD from Marquette University. A Northeasterner by upbringing, Dan and his family live in the Charleston SC area, where he teaches at Saint Leo University's North Charleston Center.
His field of study is early Church history and theology. He is particularly interested in the Western Latin tradition up to the fifth century. Areas of research include Christology, Trinitarian theology, and the intersection between Greco-Roman philosophy and Christianity. Through his teaching for Saint Leo, he has also had the great fortune of engaging more contemporary theological issues. Most notably, one of his favorite topics to study and teach is the reestablishment of the permanent diaconate in the Catholic Church.
Dr. michael J. Martocchio
Ph.D. Duquesne University
M.A. Duquesne University
B.A. Franciscan University of Steubenville
Dr. Martocchio is the Director of Catechesis and Christian Initiation for the Diocese of Charleston, South Carolina. He has worked as a parish Director of Religious Education, Youth Minister, Pastoral Associate, and Music Director. He has also taught courses in Theology at Duquesne University as well as for Saint Leo University.
His research interests include the theology of Spanish priest Raimon Pannikar, ecclesiology, and soteriology.
M.A. Duquesne University
B.A. Franciscan University of Steubenville
Dr. Martocchio is the Director of Catechesis and Christian Initiation for the Diocese of Charleston, South Carolina. He has worked as a parish Director of Religious Education, Youth Minister, Pastoral Associate, and Music Director. He has also taught courses in Theology at Duquesne University as well as for Saint Leo University.
His research interests include the theology of Spanish priest Raimon Pannikar, ecclesiology, and soteriology.
Dr. Paul MCCuistion
Ph.D. North-west University, Potchefstroom, SA
M.A. Johnson University
M.A. Saint Leo University
B.A. Johnson University
Paul's interests are in the Gospels, with emphasis on Matthew, Paul, and covenant. The Matthean research focuses on the contextual background of covenant, Christology, and kingdom within the fulfillment ideal. All three areas focus on the Jewish heritage of Christianity and the impact on the Christian life.
Paul and his wife Susan love all things Disney, their grandchildren, and travel. His favorite
places to visit are England/Scotland and Hawaii. His favorite personal pastime is talking theology and scripture with anyone. His favorite food has yet to be found but chicken in any form is currently at the top of the list.
“God has made Him both Lord and Christ—this Jesus.” Acts 2:37
M.A. Johnson University
M.A. Saint Leo University
B.A. Johnson University
Paul's interests are in the Gospels, with emphasis on Matthew, Paul, and covenant. The Matthean research focuses on the contextual background of covenant, Christology, and kingdom within the fulfillment ideal. All three areas focus on the Jewish heritage of Christianity and the impact on the Christian life.
Paul and his wife Susan love all things Disney, their grandchildren, and travel. His favorite
places to visit are England/Scotland and Hawaii. His favorite personal pastime is talking theology and scripture with anyone. His favorite food has yet to be found but chicken in any form is currently at the top of the list.
“God has made Him both Lord and Christ—this Jesus.” Acts 2:37
Lucas NoCera
M.A. Theology - Saint Leo University
B.A. Catechetics - Franciscan University of Steubenville
B.A. Theology - Franciscan University of Steubenville
Lucas joined the Department of Religion and Theology as an adjunct professor in the Spring of 2022. Since 2018, he has been a part of the University Ministry department as Music Minister/Campus Minister. One of Lucas' desires is to foster an environment where the faith can be easily grasped and encountered.
B.A. Catechetics - Franciscan University of Steubenville
B.A. Theology - Franciscan University of Steubenville
Lucas joined the Department of Religion and Theology as an adjunct professor in the Spring of 2022. Since 2018, he has been a part of the University Ministry department as Music Minister/Campus Minister. One of Lucas' desires is to foster an environment where the faith can be easily grasped and encountered.
Dr. Stephen Okey, ThD Director
Ph.D. Boston College
M.A. University of Chicago Divinity School
B.A. Georgetown University
Dr. Stephen Okey is Assistant Professor of Theology at Saint Leo University. He grew up in central Indiana, and then attended Georgetown University for his undergraduate education before heading off to Divinity School at the University of Chicago. While there, he developed his love for architecture and improv comedy. Following his graduation, he took a position as an Actuarial Analyst with Aon Re Services, running computer models of natural disasters. He later returned to graduate work in theology, completing a Ph.D. in Systematic Theology at Boston College, writing a dissertation on the theological anthropology of David Tracy.
He joined the faculty of Saint Leo University in 2013, where he teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses in systematic theology and theological ethics. He is a systematic theologian interested in questions of theological anthropology, method, and theology and culture. His research interests focus on the intersection of theology and media technology, the history of Catholic teaching on social communications, and the ethics of war and peace.
When he is not working, Dr. Okey enjoys cooking. He is an avid hiker, captain of his trivia team, and an occasional karaoke champ. Although a recent transplant to Florida, he maintains his strong devotion to the Indianapolis Colts and the Indiana Pacers. He is a regular contributor to the Catholic theology blog Daily Theology.
M.A. University of Chicago Divinity School
B.A. Georgetown University
Dr. Stephen Okey is Assistant Professor of Theology at Saint Leo University. He grew up in central Indiana, and then attended Georgetown University for his undergraduate education before heading off to Divinity School at the University of Chicago. While there, he developed his love for architecture and improv comedy. Following his graduation, he took a position as an Actuarial Analyst with Aon Re Services, running computer models of natural disasters. He later returned to graduate work in theology, completing a Ph.D. in Systematic Theology at Boston College, writing a dissertation on the theological anthropology of David Tracy.
He joined the faculty of Saint Leo University in 2013, where he teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses in systematic theology and theological ethics. He is a systematic theologian interested in questions of theological anthropology, method, and theology and culture. His research interests focus on the intersection of theology and media technology, the history of Catholic teaching on social communications, and the ethics of war and peace.
When he is not working, Dr. Okey enjoys cooking. He is an avid hiker, captain of his trivia team, and an occasional karaoke champ. Although a recent transplant to Florida, he maintains his strong devotion to the Indianapolis Colts and the Indiana Pacers. He is a regular contributor to the Catholic theology blog Daily Theology.
Eileen Poynor
M.A. Saint Leo University
B.A. Franciscan University of Steubenville
Eileen Poynor has two degrees in Theology, from Saint Leo University and from Franciscan University of Steubenville, where she also minored in Philosophy. She was born in Bogota, South America, to an Irish father and Mexican mother. At three months she was baptized in La Florida, Mexico and relocated to northern VA where she graduated from Seton High School.
She is deeply passionate about people and her faith; among her academic interests are spiritual, moral and biblical studies. Teaching Theology at this time combines two great loves for her, second to her family and Jesus Himself.
"I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full." John 10:10
B.A. Franciscan University of Steubenville
Eileen Poynor has two degrees in Theology, from Saint Leo University and from Franciscan University of Steubenville, where she also minored in Philosophy. She was born in Bogota, South America, to an Irish father and Mexican mother. At three months she was baptized in La Florida, Mexico and relocated to northern VA where she graduated from Seton High School.
She is deeply passionate about people and her faith; among her academic interests are spiritual, moral and biblical studies. Teaching Theology at this time combines two great loves for her, second to her family and Jesus Himself.
"I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full." John 10:10
Thomas Poynor, Administrator of the Graduate Program in Theology
M.Div. Cranmer House Theological Seminary
M.A. Franciscan University
B.A. Belmont University
Thomas' background is in systematic theology. He manages the graduate program and teaches. He has degrees from Belmont University (BA), Franciscan University (MA), Cranmer House Theological Seminary (MDiv). He is a doctoral student at the Catholic University of America.
M.A. Franciscan University
B.A. Belmont University
Thomas' background is in systematic theology. He manages the graduate program and teaches. He has degrees from Belmont University (BA), Franciscan University (MA), Cranmer House Theological Seminary (MDiv). He is a doctoral student at the Catholic University of America.
Dr. Marc Pugliese (associate Dean, College of Arts and Sciences)
Ph.D. Fordham University
M.Phil. Fordham University
Th.M. Westminster Theological Seminary
M.Div. Biblical Theological Seminary
B.A. University of Delaware
Dr. Marc A. Pugliese is Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Associate Professor of Religion at Saint Leo University. In addition to his administrative role Dr. Pugliese is a highly-engaged scholar and teacher. He conducts research in a number of areas including comparative theology with a focus on what Christians can learn from Hinduism, fundamental/philosophical theology, God/Trinity, and interdisciplinary research in religion and science and religion and economics. Dr. Pugliese has written, co-authored, and co-edited several books, including: The One, the Many and the Trinity (The Catholic University of America Press); the Festschrift for Joseph A. Bracken, S. J. (Marquette University Press); Beyond Naivete: Ethics, Economics and Values (University Press of America); Process Thought and Roman Catholicism: Challenges and Promises (Rowman & Littlefield); and Teaching Interreligious Encounters (Oxford University Press). The last volume is on interreligious pedagogy, another one of his research interests.
Dr. Pugliese is co-founder and co-chair of the Religious Conversions Unit in the American Academy of Religion and has been a Luce Foundation Fellow. He has participated in The Council of Independent Colleges' and Interfaith Youth Core's summer seminar on Teaching Interfaith Understanding. His professional affiliations include the American Academy of Religion, the Catholic Theological Society of America, and the College Theology Society. Dr. Pugliese has been a faculty member of Saint Leo University's Center for Catholic-Jewish Studies and is a faculty expert in religion for Saint Leo University's Polling Institute. Dr. Pugliese has been featured in national news and interviews with various media outlets, including CNN.
M.Phil. Fordham University
Th.M. Westminster Theological Seminary
M.Div. Biblical Theological Seminary
B.A. University of Delaware
Dr. Marc A. Pugliese is Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Associate Professor of Religion at Saint Leo University. In addition to his administrative role Dr. Pugliese is a highly-engaged scholar and teacher. He conducts research in a number of areas including comparative theology with a focus on what Christians can learn from Hinduism, fundamental/philosophical theology, God/Trinity, and interdisciplinary research in religion and science and religion and economics. Dr. Pugliese has written, co-authored, and co-edited several books, including: The One, the Many and the Trinity (The Catholic University of America Press); the Festschrift for Joseph A. Bracken, S. J. (Marquette University Press); Beyond Naivete: Ethics, Economics and Values (University Press of America); Process Thought and Roman Catholicism: Challenges and Promises (Rowman & Littlefield); and Teaching Interreligious Encounters (Oxford University Press). The last volume is on interreligious pedagogy, another one of his research interests.
Dr. Pugliese is co-founder and co-chair of the Religious Conversions Unit in the American Academy of Religion and has been a Luce Foundation Fellow. He has participated in The Council of Independent Colleges' and Interfaith Youth Core's summer seminar on Teaching Interfaith Understanding. His professional affiliations include the American Academy of Religion, the Catholic Theological Society of America, and the College Theology Society. Dr. Pugliese has been a faculty member of Saint Leo University's Center for Catholic-Jewish Studies and is a faculty expert in religion for Saint Leo University's Polling Institute. Dr. Pugliese has been featured in national news and interviews with various media outlets, including CNN.
Dr. Marlene Reid
Ph.D. University of Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
M.Div. Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
B.S. Cal State University Hayward (aka East Bay University)
AA Sierra Pacific Bible College (aka Northern California Bible College)
Certificate in Biblical Studies, Shiloh Bible College
Dr. Marlene Reid began as an Adjunct Instructor with Saint Leo’s Tallahassee Education Center in 2017. She has served in ministry for more than 37 years alongside her husband Charles where teaching biblical studies are their passion. They have 2 wonderful children, a dog, and a rabbit (don’t tell the dog and rabbit they are not children too!)
Marlene and her husband both retired from Information Technology careers. They have traveled extensively, hence her “need” to travel “across the pond” to complete her Ph.D. degree.
One of her favorite Scriptures: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him (Col 3:16-17).”
M.Div. Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
B.S. Cal State University Hayward (aka East Bay University)
AA Sierra Pacific Bible College (aka Northern California Bible College)
Certificate in Biblical Studies, Shiloh Bible College
Dr. Marlene Reid began as an Adjunct Instructor with Saint Leo’s Tallahassee Education Center in 2017. She has served in ministry for more than 37 years alongside her husband Charles where teaching biblical studies are their passion. They have 2 wonderful children, a dog, and a rabbit (don’t tell the dog and rabbit they are not children too!)
Marlene and her husband both retired from Information Technology careers. They have traveled extensively, hence her “need” to travel “across the pond” to complete her Ph.D. degree.
One of her favorite Scriptures: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him (Col 3:16-17).”
Andy Ross
BA-Saint Leo College
MA-Saint Leo University
Andy Ross retired as a Captain from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in Tampa and as the Deputy Chief of Police at Tampa International Airport. He holds a BA in Criminology from Saint Leo College and an MA in Theology from Saint Leo University. He is also a graduate of the Southern Police Institute at the University of Louisville, where he studied Justice Administration.
Besides teaching New Testament courses at Saint Leo, he serves on the City Council for the City of Temple Terrace and owns a security consulting firm. He is the coordinator for the Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) at his parish and is involved in several ministries. His hobbies include fitness, shooting sporting clays and anything outdoors.
MA-Saint Leo University
Andy Ross retired as a Captain from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in Tampa and as the Deputy Chief of Police at Tampa International Airport. He holds a BA in Criminology from Saint Leo College and an MA in Theology from Saint Leo University. He is also a graduate of the Southern Police Institute at the University of Louisville, where he studied Justice Administration.
Besides teaching New Testament courses at Saint Leo, he serves on the City Council for the City of Temple Terrace and owns a security consulting firm. He is the coordinator for the Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) at his parish and is involved in several ministries. His hobbies include fitness, shooting sporting clays and anything outdoors.
REv. Dr. Ian Rottenberg
Ph.D. Fordham University
M.A. Fordham University
M.A.R. Yale Divinity School
B.A. Haverford College
The Rev. Dr. Ian Rottenberg is the Teaching Pastor of Garden City Community Church, just east of Queens, and is the Director of the Center for Churches as Learning Communities. He served as Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Saint Leo University from 2012-14. He is a fan of sports and culture who has degrees from Haverford College (BA), Yale Divinity School (MAR), and Fordham University (MA, PhD). His research interests include Philosophy of Religion, Aesthetics, Hermeneutics, Environmental Ethics, and Philosophy of Literature. He loves teaching and uses any media available to help explain big and important ideas.
In sports, you can find him cheering for the New York Mets and the New York Giants. For music, he is a fan of Mumford and Sons, The Avett Brothers, and the Kings of Leon.
"Few in these hot, dim, strenuous times are quite sane or free; choked with care like clocks full of dust, laboriously doing so much good and making so much money—or so little—they are no longer good for themselves.” John Muir
M.A. Fordham University
M.A.R. Yale Divinity School
B.A. Haverford College
The Rev. Dr. Ian Rottenberg is the Teaching Pastor of Garden City Community Church, just east of Queens, and is the Director of the Center for Churches as Learning Communities. He served as Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Saint Leo University from 2012-14. He is a fan of sports and culture who has degrees from Haverford College (BA), Yale Divinity School (MAR), and Fordham University (MA, PhD). His research interests include Philosophy of Religion, Aesthetics, Hermeneutics, Environmental Ethics, and Philosophy of Literature. He loves teaching and uses any media available to help explain big and important ideas.
In sports, you can find him cheering for the New York Mets and the New York Giants. For music, he is a fan of Mumford and Sons, The Avett Brothers, and the Kings of Leon.
"Few in these hot, dim, strenuous times are quite sane or free; choked with care like clocks full of dust, laboriously doing so much good and making so much money—or so little—they are no longer good for themselves.” John Muir
Rabbi A. James Rudin, Distinguished Visiting Professor of Religion and Judaica
D.D. Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion
M.A. Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion
B.A. George Washington University
Rabbi A. James Rudin has been the Distinguished Visiting Professor of Religion and Judaica at Saint Leo University since 2002. He holds three honorary doctorates. As Director of Interreligious Affairs for the American Jewish Committee, he co-founded the Center for Catholic-Jewish Studies at Saint Leo University.
Ordained a Rabbi in 1960, he served two congregations and as an Air Force chaplain before joining the staff of the American Jewish Committee in Interreligious Affairs in 1968, becoming the Director of Interreligious Affairs in 1983. Since retiring from that post in 2000 after 32 years of service, he has continued to serve as the AJC's Senior Interreligious Advisor.
M.A. Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion
B.A. George Washington University
Rabbi A. James Rudin has been the Distinguished Visiting Professor of Religion and Judaica at Saint Leo University since 2002. He holds three honorary doctorates. As Director of Interreligious Affairs for the American Jewish Committee, he co-founded the Center for Catholic-Jewish Studies at Saint Leo University.
Ordained a Rabbi in 1960, he served two congregations and as an Air Force chaplain before joining the staff of the American Jewish Committee in Interreligious Affairs in 1968, becoming the Director of Interreligious Affairs in 1983. Since retiring from that post in 2000 after 32 years of service, he has continued to serve as the AJC's Senior Interreligious Advisor.
Sr. Pamela SMith SS.C.M.
Ph. D. Duquesne University
M.A. (Religious Studies) St. Charles Borromeo Seminary
M.A. (English) Villanova University
B.S. Bloomsburg University
Sister Pamela Smith, SS.C.M. has served the Diocese of Charleston in a number of faith formation and educational roles since 2008. She is currently the Director of the Office of Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs.
In the late 1990’s she was Associate Professor of Systematic and Moral Theology and Associate Dean at Saints Cyril and Methodius Seminary in Orchard Lake, Michigan. She left the seminary to assume the role of General Superior of her religious community. Prior to her seminary position, she spent years teaching on the secondary and undergraduate levels.
She is the author of hundreds of articles and poems which have appeared in theological, spiritual, literary, and popular publications, along with 16 books on scriptural, poetic, ecclesial, and environmental themes. Her book What Are They Saying about Environmental Ethics (Paulist, 1997) was influenced by her doctoral dissertation, Aquinas and Today’s Environmental Ethics (Duquesne, 1995).
Her most recent books are A History of the Diocese of Charleston: State of Grace (The History Press, 2020) and a joint project for the USCCB, Catholic Climate Covenant, and Catholic Association of Director of Ecumenical and Interreligious Offices (CADEIO) which she chaired and authored, Ecumenical and Interreligious Guidebook: Care for Our Common Home (Catholic Association of Ecumenical and Interreligious Officers, 2021). Her interests include reading, volunteering at her community’s outreach center, music, and walking along waterfronts.
Ph. D. Duquesne University
M.A. (Religious Studies) St. Charles Borromeo Seminary
M.A. (English) Villanova University
B.S. Bloomsburg University
Sister Pamela Smith, SS.C.M. has served the Diocese of Charleston in a number of faith formation and educational roles since 2008. She is currently the Director of the Office of Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs.
In the late 1990’s she was Associate Professor of Systematic and Moral Theology and Associate Dean at Saints Cyril and Methodius Seminary in Orchard Lake, Michigan. She left the seminary to assume the role of General Superior of her religious community. Prior to her seminary position, she spent years teaching on the secondary and undergraduate levels.
She is the author of hundreds of articles and poems which have appeared in theological, spiritual, literary, and popular publications, along with 16 books on scriptural, poetic, ecclesial, and environmental themes. Her book What Are They Saying about Environmental Ethics (Paulist, 1997) was influenced by her doctoral dissertation, Aquinas and Today’s Environmental Ethics (Duquesne, 1995).
Her most recent books are A History of the Diocese of Charleston: State of Grace (The History Press, 2020) and a joint project for the USCCB, Catholic Climate Covenant, and Catholic Association of Director of Ecumenical and Interreligious Offices (CADEIO) which she chaired and authored, Ecumenical and Interreligious Guidebook: Care for Our Common Home (Catholic Association of Ecumenical and Interreligious Officers, 2021). Her interests include reading, volunteering at her community’s outreach center, music, and walking along waterfronts.
Dr. Matthew Tapie, DirectoR of the Center For Catholic-Jewish Studies
Ph.D. Catholic University of America
M.A. Baylor University
M.Div. Abilene Christian University
B.A. Abilene Christian University
Dr. Tapie is Assistant Professor of Theology and Director of the Center for Catholic-Jewish Studies. His primary teaching and research interests are in comparative theology and moral theology. After earning graduate degrees from Abilene Christian University (M.Div.) and Baylor University (M.A. Religion, Politics, & Society), he completed his Ph.D. in Moral Theology & Ethics in 2012 (awarded with distinction) in the School of Theology and Religious Studies (STRS) at The Catholic University of America. From 2012-2014 Dr. Tapie was a Visiting Assistant Professor of Theology in the STRS and was appointed a research fellow at CUA's Institute for Interreligious Study and Dialogue.
Dr. Tapie is the author of Aquinas on Israel and the Church (Pickwick/Wipf & Stock, 2014). He has published peer-reviewed journal articles in the Journal of Moral Theology, Jaarboek (the Journal of the Aquinas Institute of Utrecht, the Netherlands) and Restoration Quarterly. He is currently editing a collected volume of essays on the relevance of the theological reading of scripture for contemporary political theology. The book is entitled, Reading Scripture as a Political Act: Essays on the Theopolitical Interpretation of the Bible (forthcoming Fortress Press, 2015).
Dr. Tapie is a member of the American Academy of Religion, the Society of Christian Ethics, the Council of Centers on Jewish-Christian Relations, The Catholic Theological Society of America, and the Society of Scriptural Reasoning.
M.A. Baylor University
M.Div. Abilene Christian University
B.A. Abilene Christian University
Dr. Tapie is Assistant Professor of Theology and Director of the Center for Catholic-Jewish Studies. His primary teaching and research interests are in comparative theology and moral theology. After earning graduate degrees from Abilene Christian University (M.Div.) and Baylor University (M.A. Religion, Politics, & Society), he completed his Ph.D. in Moral Theology & Ethics in 2012 (awarded with distinction) in the School of Theology and Religious Studies (STRS) at The Catholic University of America. From 2012-2014 Dr. Tapie was a Visiting Assistant Professor of Theology in the STRS and was appointed a research fellow at CUA's Institute for Interreligious Study and Dialogue.
Dr. Tapie is the author of Aquinas on Israel and the Church (Pickwick/Wipf & Stock, 2014). He has published peer-reviewed journal articles in the Journal of Moral Theology, Jaarboek (the Journal of the Aquinas Institute of Utrecht, the Netherlands) and Restoration Quarterly. He is currently editing a collected volume of essays on the relevance of the theological reading of scripture for contemporary political theology. The book is entitled, Reading Scripture as a Political Act: Essays on the Theopolitical Interpretation of the Bible (forthcoming Fortress Press, 2015).
Dr. Tapie is a member of the American Academy of Religion, the Society of Christian Ethics, the Council of Centers on Jewish-Christian Relations, The Catholic Theological Society of America, and the Society of Scriptural Reasoning.
Dr. Michael j. Tkacik
Ph.D. Duquesne University
M.A. Providence College
B.A. Auburn University
Michael J. Tkacik, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Theology at Saint Leo University’s home campus in Florida. Dr. Tkacik recently completed three years as serving as the Secretary for Ministries for the Diocese of St. Petersburg, Florida. In his work for the Diocese, Dr. Tkacik served as a liaison between the Bishop and the Diocesan offices of: schools; communications; catechesis; evangelization and life-long faith formation; as well as life, marriage, family, youth, multi-cultural, and prison ministries; ecumenical and inter-religious affairs; and various other Diocesan apostolates. He currently teaches in all phases of the graduate, undergraduate, diaconal, diocesan and online programs offered by Saint Leo University. His primary teaching interests and areas of research are the sacramentology and ecclesiology of the Second Vatican Council, ecumenism and interreligious dialogue, and the roles of the laity and deacons within the Catholic Church.
In addition to teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels for the past 30 years, Dr. Tkacik has also been involved in the intellectual formation of deacon candidates for the past 27 years.
Over the course of his academic career, Dr. Tkacik has held a number of administrative positions, has served on numerous diocesan committees, and has been a regular presenter at the College Theology Society and at various parishes and diocesan events. He has also taught at Providence College in Rhode Island and Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida. Dr. Tkacik has also served as a visiting lecturer at a number of Colleges/Universities including Auburn University and Spring Hill College in Alabama, and Emory and Henry College in Virginia. Dr. Tkacik’s most recent books are Pneumatic Correctives: What is the Spirit Saying to the Church of the 21st Century; Deacons: Ministers of Soul and Leaven; and Deacons and Vatican II: The Making of a Servant Church.
He lives north of Tampa, Florida with his wife of 29 years, Suzy. He and Suzy are the proud parents of three sons, Charles (26), Benjamin (23) and Samuel (20). Dr. Tkacik enjoys music, nature, dogs, weight-lifting, tennis, iced tea, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Auburn Tigers.
M.A. Providence College
B.A. Auburn University
Michael J. Tkacik, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Theology at Saint Leo University’s home campus in Florida. Dr. Tkacik recently completed three years as serving as the Secretary for Ministries for the Diocese of St. Petersburg, Florida. In his work for the Diocese, Dr. Tkacik served as a liaison between the Bishop and the Diocesan offices of: schools; communications; catechesis; evangelization and life-long faith formation; as well as life, marriage, family, youth, multi-cultural, and prison ministries; ecumenical and inter-religious affairs; and various other Diocesan apostolates. He currently teaches in all phases of the graduate, undergraduate, diaconal, diocesan and online programs offered by Saint Leo University. His primary teaching interests and areas of research are the sacramentology and ecclesiology of the Second Vatican Council, ecumenism and interreligious dialogue, and the roles of the laity and deacons within the Catholic Church.
In addition to teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels for the past 30 years, Dr. Tkacik has also been involved in the intellectual formation of deacon candidates for the past 27 years.
Over the course of his academic career, Dr. Tkacik has held a number of administrative positions, has served on numerous diocesan committees, and has been a regular presenter at the College Theology Society and at various parishes and diocesan events. He has also taught at Providence College in Rhode Island and Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida. Dr. Tkacik has also served as a visiting lecturer at a number of Colleges/Universities including Auburn University and Spring Hill College in Alabama, and Emory and Henry College in Virginia. Dr. Tkacik’s most recent books are Pneumatic Correctives: What is the Spirit Saying to the Church of the 21st Century; Deacons: Ministers of Soul and Leaven; and Deacons and Vatican II: The Making of a Servant Church.
He lives north of Tampa, Florida with his wife of 29 years, Suzy. He and Suzy are the proud parents of three sons, Charles (26), Benjamin (23) and Samuel (20). Dr. Tkacik enjoys music, nature, dogs, weight-lifting, tennis, iced tea, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Auburn Tigers.
Dr. Susan Van Baalen, O.P.
D.L.S. Georgetown University
M.Div. Jesuit School of Theology, Chicago
M.A. DePaul University
B.A. Siena Heights (College) University
Sister Susan Van Baalen, OP, joined the Saint Leo faculty as an adjunct in January 2015. Sister Van Baalen is, first and foremost, a Dominican Sister from Adrian, Michigan. She holds postgraduate degrees from De Paul University, the Jesuit School of Theology in Chicago, and a postgraduate certificate in Public Policy from the University of Southern California. Her interdisciplinary doctorate, with a concentration on philosophy and theology, is from Georgetown University in Washington DC.
Sister Van Baalen’s ministry has included teaching at all levels of formal education from first grade through graduate school. In addition to formal education, Susan was a prison chaplain and Chaplain Director in the Federal Bureau of Prisons for twenty-eight years. Her prison experience informs her knowledge and understanding of world religions. During her tenure as Chaplain Director she was responsible for the development of policies and procedures to protect the religious beliefs and practices of more than 200,000 inmates in 110 prisons. The inmate population included adherents from more than twenty distinct religious traditions. Sister Van Baalen believes that the opportunity to share her understanding of world religions and to engender tolerance of religious and cultural differences is a small but important contribution to world peace.
M.Div. Jesuit School of Theology, Chicago
M.A. DePaul University
B.A. Siena Heights (College) University
Sister Susan Van Baalen, OP, joined the Saint Leo faculty as an adjunct in January 2015. Sister Van Baalen is, first and foremost, a Dominican Sister from Adrian, Michigan. She holds postgraduate degrees from De Paul University, the Jesuit School of Theology in Chicago, and a postgraduate certificate in Public Policy from the University of Southern California. Her interdisciplinary doctorate, with a concentration on philosophy and theology, is from Georgetown University in Washington DC.
Sister Van Baalen’s ministry has included teaching at all levels of formal education from first grade through graduate school. In addition to formal education, Susan was a prison chaplain and Chaplain Director in the Federal Bureau of Prisons for twenty-eight years. Her prison experience informs her knowledge and understanding of world religions. During her tenure as Chaplain Director she was responsible for the development of policies and procedures to protect the religious beliefs and practices of more than 200,000 inmates in 110 prisons. The inmate population included adherents from more than twenty distinct religious traditions. Sister Van Baalen believes that the opportunity to share her understanding of world religions and to engender tolerance of religious and cultural differences is a small but important contribution to world peace.
Dr. Astrid Vicas
Ph.D. McGill University
M.A. McGill University
M.B.A. University of Ottawa
B.A. University of Ottawa
Dr. Astrid Vicas is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Saint Leo University. She teaches ethics of all kinds, general and professional, and the history of philosophy. She is interested in interdisciplinary studies and global studies.
She enjoys exploring topics at the intersection of disciplines and that bridge different cultures. She extracts philosophical concepts and themes in materials from different disciplines and different time periods and cultures. "The point is to think in different ways about general questions, such as: What is it to act? What is narrative? That’s my hobby."
M.A. McGill University
M.B.A. University of Ottawa
B.A. University of Ottawa
Dr. Astrid Vicas is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Saint Leo University. She teaches ethics of all kinds, general and professional, and the history of philosophy. She is interested in interdisciplinary studies and global studies.
She enjoys exploring topics at the intersection of disciplines and that bridge different cultures. She extracts philosophical concepts and themes in materials from different disciplines and different time periods and cultures. "The point is to think in different ways about general questions, such as: What is it to act? What is narrative? That’s my hobby."
Hannah Woldum Ragusa
M.A. The Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology
M.A. The University of St. Thomas
B.A. St. Olaf College
Hannah Woldum Ragusa holds B.A. degrees in Philosophy, English, and Medieval Studies from St. Olaf College, a M.A. in Catholic Studies from the University of St. Thomas, and M.A. degrees in Philosophy and Theology from the Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology. Her primary interests include aesthetics, the relationship between faith and reason, medieval philosophy and theology, and classical metaphysics. She enjoys traveling, writing, reading, drawing, painting, music, and the outdoors.
M.A. The University of St. Thomas
B.A. St. Olaf College
Hannah Woldum Ragusa holds B.A. degrees in Philosophy, English, and Medieval Studies from St. Olaf College, a M.A. in Catholic Studies from the University of St. Thomas, and M.A. degrees in Philosophy and Theology from the Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology. Her primary interests include aesthetics, the relationship between faith and reason, medieval philosophy and theology, and classical metaphysics. She enjoys traveling, writing, reading, drawing, painting, music, and the outdoors.
Dr. Randall Woodard, Department Chair & MA Director
Ph.D. Duquesne University
M.Ed. University of Manitoba
M.A. Providence College
B.A. Franciscan University
Woody grew up in Winnipeg, Manitoba and attended Notre Dame High School in Wilcox, Saskatchewan where he dreamed of playing in the CFL and not being so cold all of the time. Although, lack of skill derailed his football dreams he now lives in Florida where he sweats most of the year.
He has academic interests in Systematic Theology and Catholic Education and enjoys spending time with his wife & four kids, traveling, and playing sports, with rugby, football, and hockey being favorites. He spends free time functioning as an unpaid Uber driver for his children's athletic events.
[email protected]
"The Spirit the Lord has given us is no cowardly Spirit, rather one that makes us strong, loving and wise." 2 Tim 1:7.
M.Ed. University of Manitoba
M.A. Providence College
B.A. Franciscan University
Woody grew up in Winnipeg, Manitoba and attended Notre Dame High School in Wilcox, Saskatchewan where he dreamed of playing in the CFL and not being so cold all of the time. Although, lack of skill derailed his football dreams he now lives in Florida where he sweats most of the year.
He has academic interests in Systematic Theology and Catholic Education and enjoys spending time with his wife & four kids, traveling, and playing sports, with rugby, football, and hockey being favorites. He spends free time functioning as an unpaid Uber driver for his children's athletic events.
[email protected]
"The Spirit the Lord has given us is no cowardly Spirit, rather one that makes us strong, loving and wise." 2 Tim 1:7.
EmERITUS and Retireed
Dr. Leland Tyson "Ty" Anderson, professor emeritus
Ph.D. Temple University
M.A. Catholic University of America
B.A. University of Colorado
Dr. Anderson retired in 2013 as Professor of Religion and Philosophy. He has published in the areas of comparative religion and philosophy, religion and culture, and higher education. More recent work looked at the impact of social science on philosophy and religious studies, and the changing conception of the university in a market-driven economy.
M.A. Catholic University of America
B.A. University of Colorado
Dr. Anderson retired in 2013 as Professor of Religion and Philosophy. He has published in the areas of comparative religion and philosophy, religion and culture, and higher education. More recent work looked at the impact of social science on philosophy and religious studies, and the changing conception of the university in a market-driven economy.
Fr. Anthony "Tony" B. Kissel, Professor emeritus
Ph.D. Catholic University of Leuven
S.T.D. Catholic University of Leuven
M.A. University of Innsbruck
B.S. Saint Meinrad College
Dr. Kissel retired in 2013 as Chair and Associate Professor of Theology and Religion. A native of Evansville, Indiana, he was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Evansville in 1973. He taught high school and served in ministry at Mater Dei High School in Evansville, as well as serving in campus ministry at the University of Evansville and the University of Southern Indiana before he undertook his doctoral work in Belgium, where his dissertation research was entitled The Euthanasia Debate in the United States: Christian Narrative Reflections.
Previously having taught at the University of Southern Indiana, Dr. Kissel came to Saint Leo in 1996. His research interests are in the area of moral theology, with a focus on health care.
S.T.D. Catholic University of Leuven
M.A. University of Innsbruck
B.S. Saint Meinrad College
Dr. Kissel retired in 2013 as Chair and Associate Professor of Theology and Religion. A native of Evansville, Indiana, he was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Evansville in 1973. He taught high school and served in ministry at Mater Dei High School in Evansville, as well as serving in campus ministry at the University of Evansville and the University of Southern Indiana before he undertook his doctoral work in Belgium, where his dissertation research was entitled The Euthanasia Debate in the United States: Christian Narrative Reflections.
Previously having taught at the University of Southern Indiana, Dr. Kissel came to Saint Leo in 1996. His research interests are in the area of moral theology, with a focus on health care.
Dr. Michael Cooper, S.J. (Retired)
S.T.D. Institut Catholique de Paris
M.Div. Jusuit School of Theology
M.A. Fordham University
B.A. Loyola University Chicago
Fr. Michael Cooper, S.J. is Assistant Professor at Saint Leo University. He took his doctorate in Ignatian Spirituality at the Institut Catholique in Paris, where he had two graduate seminars with Michel de Certeau, S.J., the editor and commentator of the French edition of Peter Faber's Memoriale. His academic interests are in the topics of Ignatian spirituality and discernment, and the sacraments.
Previously teaching at Xavier University and at Loyola University Chicago, he first came to Saint Leo University as the Assistant to the President for University Ministry and the Director of the Center for Catholic-Jewish Studies. He developed the Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies, and regularly taught 1-2 courses along with his administrative duties. In 2007, he switched to full-time teaching in the Department of Theology, offering courses in Ignatian Spirituality, Spiritual Direction, Theology and Spirituality of Ministry, Catholic Traditions and Foundations, the History of Christian Spirituality, American Catholicism, and Christology.
He enjoys leading pilgrimages to Ireland, Ignatian Spain, the Holy Land, and Rome.
"God is the depth of all there is." – Ignatian theologian Karl Rahner, S.J.
M.Div. Jusuit School of Theology
M.A. Fordham University
B.A. Loyola University Chicago
Fr. Michael Cooper, S.J. is Assistant Professor at Saint Leo University. He took his doctorate in Ignatian Spirituality at the Institut Catholique in Paris, where he had two graduate seminars with Michel de Certeau, S.J., the editor and commentator of the French edition of Peter Faber's Memoriale. His academic interests are in the topics of Ignatian spirituality and discernment, and the sacraments.
Previously teaching at Xavier University and at Loyola University Chicago, he first came to Saint Leo University as the Assistant to the President for University Ministry and the Director of the Center for Catholic-Jewish Studies. He developed the Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies, and regularly taught 1-2 courses along with his administrative duties. In 2007, he switched to full-time teaching in the Department of Theology, offering courses in Ignatian Spirituality, Spiritual Direction, Theology and Spirituality of Ministry, Catholic Traditions and Foundations, the History of Christian Spirituality, American Catholicism, and Christology.
He enjoys leading pilgrimages to Ireland, Ignatian Spain, the Holy Land, and Rome.
"God is the depth of all there is." – Ignatian theologian Karl Rahner, S.J.
Dr Francis Githieya (Retired)
Ph.D. Emory University
M.T.S. Emory University
M.Div. Interdenominational Theological Center
Th.B. Christian International College
Francis K. Githieya is an Assistant Professor of Theology and Religion at Saint Leo University since 1999. Prior to joining the Department of Philosophy, Religion, and Theology, Githieya served as a full time Academic Advisor at the Saint Leo University Division of Continuing Education, Atlanta Center (1992-1998). He was also Adjunct Professor of World Religions and Christian Social Ethics at the University of Saint Francis (Joliet, Illinois) (1993-1997). Between 2008 and 2012, Githieya combined teaching with administrative duties at Saint Leo University, when he simultaneously served as a Full time Faculty and Assistant Director at the SLU Atlanta Continuing Education Center. He currently teaches graduate and undergraduate Courses at the three SLU Metro Atlanta Centers (Marietta, Gwinnett, and Morrow).
He is the author of The Freedom of the Spirit: African Indigenous Churches in Kenya (Oxford University Press, 1999), in which he explores the ecclesiology of the African Greek Orthodox Church and the African Spirit Churches. He is also the author of several articles, among them is, “A New Vision of the Church: The Challenge of the African Independent Churches” in Henry Wilson and Nyambura Njoroge (eds.) New Wine: The Challenge of the Emerging Ecclesiologies to Church Renewal, Geneva, WARC, 1994. Pp. 112 -134, and “The Church of the Holy Spirit: Biblical Beliefs and Practices of the Arathi of Kenya, 1926-1950,” in Thomas Spear and Isaria N. Kimambo (eds.) East African Expressions of Christianity. James Currey Publishers. Athens, Ohio,1999, pages 231-243. He is also currently working on a paper on the “Small Christian Communities in the Catholic Diocese of Nyahururu, Kenya,” in which he examines the metaphor of “Mwaki” (Fire) as a new igniting expression of the Church.
M.T.S. Emory University
M.Div. Interdenominational Theological Center
Th.B. Christian International College
Francis K. Githieya is an Assistant Professor of Theology and Religion at Saint Leo University since 1999. Prior to joining the Department of Philosophy, Religion, and Theology, Githieya served as a full time Academic Advisor at the Saint Leo University Division of Continuing Education, Atlanta Center (1992-1998). He was also Adjunct Professor of World Religions and Christian Social Ethics at the University of Saint Francis (Joliet, Illinois) (1993-1997). Between 2008 and 2012, Githieya combined teaching with administrative duties at Saint Leo University, when he simultaneously served as a Full time Faculty and Assistant Director at the SLU Atlanta Continuing Education Center. He currently teaches graduate and undergraduate Courses at the three SLU Metro Atlanta Centers (Marietta, Gwinnett, and Morrow).
He is the author of The Freedom of the Spirit: African Indigenous Churches in Kenya (Oxford University Press, 1999), in which he explores the ecclesiology of the African Greek Orthodox Church and the African Spirit Churches. He is also the author of several articles, among them is, “A New Vision of the Church: The Challenge of the African Independent Churches” in Henry Wilson and Nyambura Njoroge (eds.) New Wine: The Challenge of the Emerging Ecclesiologies to Church Renewal, Geneva, WARC, 1994. Pp. 112 -134, and “The Church of the Holy Spirit: Biblical Beliefs and Practices of the Arathi of Kenya, 1926-1950,” in Thomas Spear and Isaria N. Kimambo (eds.) East African Expressions of Christianity. James Currey Publishers. Athens, Ohio,1999, pages 231-243. He is also currently working on a paper on the “Small Christian Communities in the Catholic Diocese of Nyahururu, Kenya,” in which he examines the metaphor of “Mwaki” (Fire) as a new igniting expression of the Church.
Linda Taggart (Retired)
M.A. University of South Florida
B.A. University of Tampa
B.A. University of South Florida
Linda S. Taggart has two B.A. degrees—English from University of South Florida (USF), and Creative Writing from University of Tampa—and a M.A. degree in Religious Studies from USF with a specialization in Hebrew Bible. Her research interests focus on Interreligious Education and Dialogue, and the study of women in scripture in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In 2012-2013, Linda completed a year of Russell Berrie Fellowship studies in Rome at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas receiving a graduate certificate in Interreligious Studies.
Linda is an adjunct professor at Saint Leo University teaching classes in Old Testament/Hebrew Scriptures, and World Religions. She has taught in the Diaconate Formation Program of the Diocese of St. Petersburg, and she lectures in parish, congregational, and community settings. Linda is a member of the Society of Biblical Literature, the American Academy of Religion, and an associate member of the Catholic Biblical Association.
Living in Tampa since 1956, Linda is a member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church, and widow of beloved husband of 25 years, James K. Taggart (1937-2011).
B.A. University of Tampa
B.A. University of South Florida
Linda S. Taggart has two B.A. degrees—English from University of South Florida (USF), and Creative Writing from University of Tampa—and a M.A. degree in Religious Studies from USF with a specialization in Hebrew Bible. Her research interests focus on Interreligious Education and Dialogue, and the study of women in scripture in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In 2012-2013, Linda completed a year of Russell Berrie Fellowship studies in Rome at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas receiving a graduate certificate in Interreligious Studies.
Linda is an adjunct professor at Saint Leo University teaching classes in Old Testament/Hebrew Scriptures, and World Religions. She has taught in the Diaconate Formation Program of the Diocese of St. Petersburg, and she lectures in parish, congregational, and community settings. Linda is a member of the Society of Biblical Literature, the American Academy of Religion, and an associate member of the Catholic Biblical Association.
Living in Tampa since 1956, Linda is a member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church, and widow of beloved husband of 25 years, James K. Taggart (1937-2011).
