Join Rumi Forum, Center for Faith, Identity, and Globalization (CFIG), Wise Institute, The Catholic University of America`s School of Theology and Religious Studies and McLean Center for the Study of Culture and Values for an enlightening conference dedicated to exploring the challenges and opportunities of teaching religion and passing down religious identity in the contemporary United States. This event will gather educators, scholars, religious leaders, and community members to discuss innovative methods and strategies for imparting religious knowledge and values in a diverse and rapidly changing society.
Through keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive workshops, participants will engage with topics such as interfaith dialogue, the role of technology in religious education, and the balance between tradition and modernity. Together, we will seek to understand how to effectively nurture and sustain religious identity across generations, fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual growth in today’s globalized world.
Opening Remarks
Aaron Dominguez, Ph.D.: CUA, Executive Vice President and Provost (invited)
Keynote Speaker
Merylann “Mimi” J. Schuttloffel, Ph.D.: CUA, Dept. of Education, Professor Emerita and Brother Patrick Ellis Chair & Center for Faith, Identity, and Globalization (CFIG), Senior Fellow
Scholars Panel
Moderator: William A. Barbieri, Ph.D.: CUA, School of Theology & Religious Studies, Ordinary Professor of Ethics
- Jewish: Benji Davis, Ph.D.: Israel Studies, Teaching and Research Fellow
- Muslim: Fevzi Saraç, Ph.D.: LSU, Political Science Dept., Lecturer
- Catholic: Jem Sullivan, Ph.D.: CUA, School of Theology & Religious Studies, Associate Professor of Practice
Practitioners Panel
Moderator: Ibrahim Anli: Rumi Forum, Executive Director
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- Jewish: Rabbi Abbi Sharofsky: JCRC, Director of Intergroup Relations and Rabbi in Residence
- Muslim: Ayse Selma Yilmaz: CORE Education Services, Mentor
- Catholic: Susan Timoney: CUA, School of Theology & Religious Studies, Associate Professor of Practice in Pastoral Studies
Event Program
12:00 – 1:30 pm: Opening Remarks & Lunch
1:30 – 3:00 pm: Scholars Panel
3:00 – 3:30 pm: Coffee Break
3:30 – 5:00 pm: Practitioners Panel
5:00 – 5:10 pm: Closing Remarks
5:30 – 7:00 pm: Dinner (Pryzbyla Center, Great Room C)