معرفی
Dr. Steve Bouma-Prediger serves as Professor of Religion at Hope College, where he has been a faculty member since 1994. He chairs the Campus Sustainability Advisory Committee (The Green Team) and oversees the Environmental Studies minor, demonstrating deep institutional commitment beyond his departmental role.
His academic foundation includes a Ph.D. in religious studies from The University of Chicago (1992), M.Div. in theology from Fuller Theological Seminary (1987), M.Phil. in philosophy from the Institute for Christian Studies (1984), and B.A. in math and computer science from Hope College (1979).
Dr. Bouma-Prediger's scholarly identity centers on environmental theology and religious ethics, particularly examining ecological stewardship through Christian frameworks. His seminal work For the Beauty of the Earth established him as a leading voice in eco-theology, earning recognition in Christianity Today's Book Awards. For four decades, he has taught the immersive May Term course Ecological Theology and Ethics, combining Adirondack wilderness experiences with academic rigor to explore humanity's relationship with nature.
His distinguished recognition includes:
- Two major endowed chairs: Maas Endowed Chair in Reformed Theology (2017-2022) and Jacobson Endowed Chair (2003-2007)
- Multiple teaching honors including Hope College's Outstanding Faculty Award (2001) and Professor Educator Award (1999)
- Nominations for national teaching awards including the Robert Foster Cherry Award and Carnegie Foundation's U.S. Professor of the Year
- Student-selected honors including Commencement speaker (1998) and Mortar Board "Last Lecture" (2009)
Beyond Hope College, he maintains an adjunct professorship at Western Theological Seminary and teaches internationally through the Creation Care Study Program in Belize and New Zealand. His work bridges academic scholarship with practical sustainability leadership, reflecting Hope College's mission of integrating faith, learning, and service.
