EXPLORE Institute offers an experienced team of OWU chaplains as well as a strong, collaborative theology faculty team from Ohio Wesleyan, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Columbus, and the Methodist Theological School in Ohio.
Director of the Institute
University Chaplain
Jon has dedicated the past 43 years to serving college students at Ohio Wesleyan University with care and compassion as an ordained elder in full connection from the West Michigan Conference of the United Methodist Church.
Dean of the Explore Institute
Associate Chaplain for Catholic Community
Mary serves as Associate Chaplain for Catholic Community at Ohio Wesleyan University and is the current Dean of the Explore Institute.
Administrator for the Institute
Assistant to the University Chaplain
As assistant to the University Chaplain, Sharon serves as chief-of-staff and “spiritual triage” coordinator for the entire chaplaincy and community service learning staff.
Institute Faculty
Professor of Religion
Dr. Michael is Swan-Collins-Allen Professor of World Religion at Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware, Ohio, where he has taught since 1978.
Institute Presenter and Mentor
Sr. Mary Magdalene, O.P., M.Th., obtained an Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts from the University of Navarre in Pamplona, Spain and afterwards obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature and Spanish from Franciscan University of Steubenville
Institute Advisor
Associate Chaplain
Chad is the Director of the Spring Break Interfaith Service Week Program at Ohio Wesleyan University, where he also advises or co-advises student groups, teaches, and provides pastoral care.
Institute Advisor
Director for the Wilderness Experience and Applied Seminar Presenter
William is an Associate Chaplain and Director of Wilderness Ministry at Ohio Wesleyan University.