Karen Cole-Smith

Karen Cole-Smith serves as a Graduate Adjunct Instructor in Palm Beach Atlantic University's School of Ministry, specifically within the sub-departments of Theological Studies and Community Transformation and Chaplaincy (CTC). She joined the university in 2025 and contributes to graduate-level theological education.

Her academic credentials include:

• PhD in Sociology, University of Florida
• MDiv in Divinity, Berkeley School of Theology

Her research integrates theological scholarship with sociological analysis, focusing on practical ministry applications in community transformation and chaplaincy contexts. This interdisciplinary approach bridges academic theology with real-world spiritual care practices, particularly examining how religious institutions engage with societal challenges through transformative frameworks.

As a part-time faculty member, she specializes in graduate instruction within ministry-focused programs, emphasizing the intersection of theological theory and community-based practice. Her work supports the development of ministry leaders equipped for contemporary ecclesiastical and chaplaincy roles.