Lynn Neal

Dr. Lynn Neal is the Easley Professor of Religious Studies at Wake Forest University, affiliated with the Department for the Study of Religions. She holds a Ph.D. in Religious Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her research focuses on American religious history, religion and popular culture, and the intersection of fashion and religious identity. Notable works include *Romancing God: Evangelical Women and Inspirational Fiction* (2006), *Religion in Vogue: Christianity and Fashion in America* (2019), and *Wearing Their Faith: New Religious Movements, Dress, and Fashion in America* (2025). She co-edited *Religious Intolerance in America: A Documentary History* (2010/2019) and launched the website 'Fashioning Faith' in 2025 to explore religion and fashion.

Her teaching emphasizes American religious history and religion's role in media and culture. She has published widely on topics like religious intolerance, cult stereotypes in TV, and fashion as a theological medium. In 2017, she received the American Academy of Religion Excellence in Teaching Award for her innovative pedagogy. Neal’s work bridges academic scholarship with accessible public-facing projects, reflecting her commitment to interdisciplinary research.

• Education: Ph.D. in Religious Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Key Research Themes: Religion and fashion, television portrayals of religion, religious intolerance
• Public Engagement: 'Fashioning Faith' website, documentary editing, media commentary

Neal’s publications demonstrate a focus on how material culture—fashion, media, and accessories—shapes religious expression and dialogue in American society. Her work highlights overlooked intersections between everyday aesthetics and spiritual practices.