Todd Cioffi (2007-present) assistant professor of theology
Dear friends, I would like to take this time to introduce myself. I have just completed my first year at Whitworth as an assistant professor of theology. Before Whitworth, I was living in Lawrenceville, N.J., and finishing my dissertation on Karl Barth's political theology. Alongside my research and writing, I was teaching philosophical and theological ethics full time at Villanova University and working part time at a Presbyterian (USA) church as director of community outreach. After what seemed like ages, I graduated with my P.D. in systematic theology from Princeton Seminary in May 2007, and arrived in Spokane on Sept. 1. Arriving with me was my wife, Erinn, and our daughter, Sophia, who at that time was only three weeks old. To say the least, this past academic year has been very busy and very enjoyable.

At Whitworth this past year, I taught Introduction to the Old Testament, in both the fall and spring semesters. Beyond that class, part of my position at Whitworth entails teaching Core 300, The Rationalist Tradition, for adult learners in the continuing-studies program. Core 300 is the equivalent to Core 250 for traditional undergraduates and is basically an introduction to Western philosophy and culture. My teaching this past year has been quite satisfying, and I'm looking forward to offering these courses again next year, along with two near courses. First, for our new master's in theology program, I will teach Christianity and Culture during Jan Term. And in the spring I will offer an upper-division course on political theology, Christian Political Thought.  I am thrilled to be offering these two new courses.

Although I've been busy at Whitworth this past year, I managed to get involved in a local church, Manito Presbyterian. As an ordained minister in the PCUSA, I was eager to get connected to a local church. At Manito, I had the good fortune to offer a three-part adult-education series on the problem of torture from a Christian perspective. I also had an opportunity to preach for Manito while the pastor was on vacation. Next year I plan to connect more formally with Manito as parish associate and will help out in building up the church's education programs.

With one year behind me, I am looking forward to many more years at Whitworth. Erinn and I have appreciated the warm hospitality shown to us by the Whitworth community and are thrilled to see what God has for us in the near future. Blessings.