Hess to Join Faculty as Associate Professor in Religious Education, to Speak at Philosophy Forum Sept. 16

September 1, 2022

OBU will soon welcome Dr. Keith Hess to the faculty as the Jewell and Joe Huitt Associate Professor in Religious Education. He will assume his role in January ahead of the spring 2023 semester.

Hess will also make an appearance this month on Bison Hill, ahead of his arrival on faculty. He will serve as the guest lecturer for the first Philosophy Forum of the fall semester, taking place Friday, Sept. 16, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in Bailey Business Center’s Tulsa Royalties Auditorium. His lecture will be titled, “Make Every Effort: The Importance of Spiritual Disciples for the Abundant Life.”

Hess currently serves as professor of philosophy at College of Southern Nevada, a role he has held since 2016. He previously served as philosophy instructor at University of California, Santa Barbara, from 2013 to 2016. He likewise served as a teaching assistant at UCSB from 2010 to 2016. He has also previously worked as an adjunct online instructor for Southern New Hampshire University and as an adjunct philosophy professor for Biola University.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts in biblical languages from The Master’s University, graduating magna cum laude. He later earned a Master of Arts in philosophy of religion and ethics from Biola University, graduating with highest honors. He also earned a Ph.D. in philosophy from UCSB.

Dr. Matthew Emerson, dean of theology, arts and humanities, looks forward to Hess joining the faculty in January and is grateful for his knowledge and experience.

“Dr. Hess is a proven scholar, a committed churchman and a devoted follower of Jesus Christ,” Emerson said. “He has a passion for both his subject and for mentoring his students. We are excited to welcome him to Bison Hill in January.”

Learn more about degree options in the Hobbs School of Theology and Ministry.