Fred Heifner

Dr. Fred Heifner is a Professor of Anthropology, Philosophy, and Religion at Cumberland University, holding the Virginia and Guy Thackston Professor of Liberal Arts endowed chair since 2020. He is affiliated with the Millard and JJ Oakley School of Humanities, Education, and the Arts. His teaching and research span anthropology, philosophy, religion, and childhood education.

Dr. Heifner holds a B.A. in Psychology and Philosophy from Louisiana College, an M.Div. and Th.D. in Systematic Theology from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, with additional post-graduate studies in anthropology at Middle Tennessee State University.

His professional contributions include leadership in national childhood education conferences, curriculum consulting for organizations like the Spanish Publishing House and the National Council of Churches, and a 25-year tenure teaching in the Southern Baptist Convention's Seminary External Education Program.

• Awards: Virginia and Guy Thackston Professor of Liberal Arts (2020)

While no specific grants or advising details are highlighted, his work emphasizes interdisciplinary engagement across liberal arts disciplines. He currently serves at Cumberland University's Labry Hall, Room 213.