Join a thoughtful conversation about finding purpose and joy as faculty in Christian higher education. How do Christian higher education faculty navigate their careers well?Despite common assumptions, Christian faculty, in fact, face considerable headwinds in their work. For example, a recent Best Christian Workplaces survey found that comparing all sectors, those working in Christian higher education reported the least satisfaction. Christian higher education was also the only sector in which the average employee engagement score fell within the "unhealthy" range. As BCW summarized in its report on Christian colleges and universities, "This data should rightly sound an alarm." Purpose and Joy addresses faculty longevity and thriving over the course of their careers, providing better support as faculty make decisions and navigate academic life: determining when and how to seek promotion; stepping into department, program, and college leadership; pursuing research opportunities that take them out of the classroom or the academy, or conversely, worrying about research trajectories that have stalled; pursuing meaningful professional development opportunities; acting as faith leaders; and balancing important responsibilities related to family and community with their own needs for sabbath rest. This volume draws on a vibrant collection of personal essays focused on navigating varied pathways within, through, and beyond Christian higher education. Written by and for faculty, this book features engaging stories, cultivates a conversation rooted in care for fellow academics, and provides support for those seeking to pursue purpose and joy in their careers.
"With warmth and wisdom, Purpose and Joy guides us in discerning new paths, nurturing joy, and cultivating sustainable rhythms of work, rest, and renewal- a hopeful resource for flourishing in every season of academic life. A wise companion and practical resource for professors at various stages of their vocation, this book explores how purpose and calling are shaped through spiritual mission, meaningful community, and the lived realities of Christian higher education."
Karen An-hwei Lee
"This remarkable collection of essays offers compassionate, hard-won advice from Christian faculty members who have lived with a sense of vocation and call. Their stories meet the reader at multiple life stages and career conflict points. Individual essays provide honest guidance. Collectively, they exhibit the virtues of purpose and joy named in the title. The inclusion of study questions and the editors' integrative comments make the book ideal for small group engagement as well as personal development. I will recommend the book widely to those teaching and leading at Christian Colleges but also to any educator who seeks to connect soul work with the work of teaching and research."
Dr. Marjorie Hass
"I simply loved this book. First, the individual chapters are consistently well written. This is not always the case with edited volumes. It is a delightful read. Second, the topics are essential. I can see this book being used repeatedly throughout one's career. Third, the book contains so much wisdom that is transferable to other vocations outside of education. I'd recommend it for anyone who serves on a board of trustees. Understanding the faculty life will make trustees better."
