We talk a lot about college student intellectual, social and emotional development, but there are fewer conversations around college students’ spiritual development. In this guest interview, Lynn and Vicki talk with Rev. Terry Hofmann who has served as a Director of Spiritual Life at a small liberal arts college for ten years. Terry brings to this conversation her wealth of knowledge and experience with college students as they explore their spiritual and religious identities. Terry shares ideas for supporting students in the various aspects of spiritual health and wellness.

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We had the opportunity recently to chat with Rev. Terry Hofmann who has previously served as Director of Spiritual Life at Curry College in Massachusetts. Terry helped us explore a topic often overlooked as we think about our college students’ health – their spiritual health.

Terry talked about the growing segment of the population (not just college students) who identify themselves as “spiritual but not religious.” She reminded us that we are all spiritual beings simply because we are human.  Terry also acknowledged that as college students explore their spiritual and religious identities, it can create an uncomfortable time for parents. She suggested that we need to trust our students to make a choice that is most meaningful to them, and that when adults invite students into conversations about spirituality, students are often anxious to talk about it.

As we like to do, we asked Terry what books she might recommend to parents to read and she shared three of her favorites. Check them out!

Holy Envy: Finding God in the Faith of Others by Barbara Brown Taylor

Out of Many Faiths: Religious Diversity and the American Promise by Eboo Patel

and one that may surprise you –

Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress Free Productivity by David Allen

There’s also an edition for teens –

Getting Things Done for Teens: Take Control of Your Life in a Distracting World by David Allen

Terry also talked about the importance for all of us to find some moments of quiet. Here’s some additional reading:

Is Your Student “Present” at College?

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