Join our first class of Identity, Community, and Vocation
Instructor – Dr. Ryan O’Dowd

Who am I? And what am I called to do at this time, in this place, and among these people who live in the world around me? This two credit, integrative seminar explores issues of identity, community, and vocation, drawing upon philosophical, sociological, and theological readings.

Dr. Ryan O’Dowd serves as Chesterton House Senior Fellow, including status as both Adjunct Professor of Biblical Studies at Gordon College and Cornell United Religious Work (CURW) Chaplain.  His formal education includes a B.S. in Biology from the U.S. Air Force Academy, M.A. in biblical studies from Reformed Theological Seminary, and Ph.D. in biblical studies from the University of Liverpool (2005).  He has taught courses in biblical and religious studies at Briercrest College, Redeemer University College, and the Paideia Centre for Public Theology.

He also served in the active duty Air Force from 1994-2001 and 2010-13 and in the Air Force Reserves from 2001-2009 and 2013 to the present.  During his second tour on active duty he served as Courtesy Associate Professor of Aerospace Studies at Cornell University, and also served as a member of the board of governors at Chesterton House.  He currently holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and serves as Inspector General at the 514th Air Mobility Wing (Air Force Reserves) at McGuire Air Force Base, NJ.

Ryan is married to the former Amy Gunter of Pacific Grove, CA and they have four children.  Their marriage has included 13 homes in six U.S. states, two Canadian provinces, and Cheltenham, England.  They’re very happy to be settled in Ithaca.

“Dr. O’Dowd is a fantastic teacher and does a truly excellent job at helping students come to real understanding of the depth of the material.” – Dan Miller