Michael Stoltzfus

Dr. Michael Stoltzfus is a Professor of Religion at Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC), where he coordinates the religious studies minor. Previously, he taught religious studies and philosophy at Valdosta State University for 16 years. His research focuses on how religious and spiritual practices influence everyday life, particularly regarding disability, chronic illness, and inter-religious dialogue. He has published four books and numerous articles, including works on disability in world religions and spirituality in healthcare.

• Education:
• Doctorate in Religion, Ethics, and Society – Vanderbilt University
• Master's in Religious Studies – Pacific School of Religion
• Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies – Goshen College
• Academic Programs: Co-directed eight Japan Summer Study Abroad Programs, partnering with Otemon Gakoin University in Osaka. Programs include cultural excursions in Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, and Tokyo.
• Research Interests: Explores intersections of religion with disability studies, health, and ethics. Recent work analyzes how global religions address disability and chronic illness through sacred texts and social practices.
• Labs/Teams: Leads study abroad initiatives integrating Japanese spiritual traditions with cultural immersion.