In an age when fewer Americans consider themselves affiliated with a religion, Joel N. Lohr says interfaith engagement can provide a great service to Hartford.Lohr began his new job as president of Hartford Seminary on July 16. The Seminary describes itself as a non-denominational graduate school for religious and theological studies with roots dating back […]
In an age when fewer Americans consider themselves affiliated with a religion, Joel N. Lohr says interfaith engagement can provide a great service to Hartford.
Lohr began his new job as president of Hartford Seminary on July 16. The Seminary describes itself as a non-denominational graduate school for religious and theological studies with roots dating back to 1834.
As Hartford Seminary's president, Lohr's goals range from the lofty to the practical. Ultimately, he'd like to create understanding between members of different religions through education. But for now, he'd like to raise local awareness of the Hartford Seminary, including with the business community, so people know the organization, what it does and maybe even attend a lecture.
What is your top priority for Hartford Seminary?
Seminaries across the country are struggling, yet Hartford Seminary has so much to celebrate. It's healthy fiscally and in terms of enrollments. But there's work to do to stay that way, and to tell our unique interfaith story — one unlike any other seminary in the country. Many may not realize the gem the seminary really is, right here in our city.
Do you think it's important for Hartford Seminary to have a relationship with the business community?
Many of our goals are the same in terms of helping society achieve its potential for health, meaning and happiness. I'm hoping that we can give back to our community and that those in our business community might look at what we are doing, exploring possibilities for partnerships. Important? Essential. We need each other.
As Hartford Seminary's president, what steps do you intend to take to engage the local business community?
In many sectors like technology, continuing education is common to ensure employees are up-to-date in their field. In an increasingly global business world there is a need, I think, for education around cultural differences, of which religion so often plays a part.
We specialize in dialogue, religious differences and peacemaking. My hope is to invite business professionals to consider us as a resource and partner in these areas, whether online, on campus, or by us coming to you.
Can you tell us something about yourself most people don't know?
I grew up in small-town, rural Ontario, Canada, and have lived and worked in three different countries (Canada, England and now the USA). I definitely think this experience affects how I live, lead and interact with people. It's filled me with a love for people and gratitude for the opportunities of each day.
