Peter Ellard

Peter Ellard is an Associate Professor at Merrimack College, where he serves as Director of the Graduate Program in Spirituality and Spiritual Direction. His academic career spans theological education, environmental ethics, and student retention initiatives.

• Ph.D., Historical Theology, Fordham University
• MA, Historical Theology, Fordham University
• BA, Theology, Fordham University
• Harvard University, Graduate School of Education, Institutes for Management Development (2006)

Ellard's research focuses on the ecological philosophy of Thomas Berry, integrating theology and environmental ethics to address climate change. He also explores medieval Christian thought through the School of Chartres, examining intersections of spirituality, sustainability, and educational policy.

His scholarly output reveals consistent themes:

• Environmental stewardship in religious contexts
• Student success strategies in higher education
• Historical-theological frameworks for ecological crises

Key subtopics include campus climate adaptation, ecotheology, religious violence critique, and cosmological spirituality.

Scientific honors include multiple Lecturer and Administrator of the Year awards, and recognition for disability advocacy. He has collaborated with the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I on environmental symposia.