About the Catholic University Conference

Join us 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.: GMU, 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

• 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