The department of religious studies welcomed a new addition this month. Dr. Nicholas Rademacher joins the campus as an assistant professor.
A native of Chicago, Rademacher earned his Ph.D from the School of Theology and Religious Studies at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. While there, he wrote his dissertation “Apostle of Social Justice: Paul Hanly Furfey and the Construction of a Catholic Culture.” He also holds an M.A. in religion and religious education as well as an honors B.A. in history.
Rademacher’s main research interests relate to the issues of the church and world. The main focus of this is the historical development of catholic social teaching and its application in regards to war and poverty. Social justice is based on the idea that society should give both groups and individuals fair treatment and a just share of all benefits within society.
One of the main reasons Rademacher chose to come to Cabrini was that its mission of incorporating intellectual competency with moral and social responsibility fit so well with his research interests. The key component of these includes the integration of catholic social teaching and the spiritual life. The work done in the Wolfington center as well as Cabrini’s “education of the heart” was a significant factor in his decision-making.
“It’s exciting to be in a place that is committed to social justice and makes it an integral part of the learning experience,” Rademacher said. “It’s a great fit.”
Although he has only been on campus for a few weeks, Rademacher feels very welcome.
“The faculty and students have all been very helpful and responsive and with the beautiful campus and chapel; it’s inspirational.”
Rademacher feels that it is important for students to have an understanding of the teachings of the church today. He hopes his students leave his class with the knowledge of how to better integrate the principles of catholic social teaching into their every day lives.
