Dr. Tom Varaicalli of the Honor’s College talks with ADF’s John Bursch about preparing for high-stakes cases, the cultural and legal battles around life and gender policy, and the Constitution’s protection of religious exercise. They also discuss public opinion, tech and AI concerns, and the daily prayer habits that sustain a lawyer’s work.
Faculty
Finding Your Journey of Faith and Transformation With Paul J. Kim
In this episode of Conversatio, Belmont Abbey Campus Minister Carmen Alexander and our guest Paul J. Kim discuss his journey of faith, the challenges of living as a young adult in a secular world, and the importance of community, sacraments, and personal growth.
A Reflection on Wisdom and Foolishness
In this episode of Conversatio, Professor James Neff of the Belmont Abbey Honors College shares an original reflection on the Gospel of Luke about wisdom and foolishness.
The Realism of St. Augustine in a Utopian Age with Mike Foley
In this episode of Conversatio, Dr. Joe Wysocki welcomes Mike Foley—a professor in the Great Texts Program at Baylor University and a Catholic theologian known for his engaging work at the intersection of faith, culture, and education. Together, they explore what it means to be Augustinian in an age of confusion.
Announcement of Interim President
The Board of Trustees of Belmont Abbey College is pleased to announce the appointment of alumnus Dr. Joseph Wysocki as Interim President effective August 3, 2025.
Our current Provost, and a seasoned leader and faithful steward of Catholic higher education, Dr. Wysocki brings to this role a deep commitment to our mission of forming students in mind, body, and spirit in the Benedictine/Liberal Arts/Catholic intellectual tradition. With a proven record of academic leadership and dedication to the values that shape our community, he will provide steady and thoughtful guidance during this period of transition.
Dr. Bill Thierfelder, who has served as president of Belmont Abbey College since 2004, announced his retirement earlier this year. He will officially step down on August 2, marking the conclusion of his 21-year tenure. The Board of Directors launched a national search for his successor earlier this summer. In the interim, Dr. Wysocki will serve as acting president until a new leader is appointed.
We ask our entire college community to keep Dr. Wysocki in your prayers as we embark on this new chapter in our shared journey.
