VLCFF Hires Assistant Director
Apr 16th, 2009 by vlcff
The Institute for Pastoral Initiatives is pleased to announce that the position of Assistant Director – Specialist in Curriculum and Adult Faith Formation has been offered to Ramon Luzárraga, Ph.D. The appointment is effective July 1, 2009.
The new position is funded by the Office of the President of the University of Dayton. “The support of the University of Dayton’s Administration for the Institute for Pastoral Initiatives and our collaborative work with our diocesan partnerships across the nation and around the world through the Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation is demonstrated with this new appointment”, stated Sr. Angela Ann Zukowski, Director of the Institute.
Dr. Luzárraga earned a doctorate in Systematic theology and Ethics from Marquette University, holds a M.A.R. from Yale Divinity School and a B.A from Fordham University. For the past three years he has been a Lecturer in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Dayton. He is highly esteemed by both his colleagues and students as an inspiring, creative and motivational teacher. His teaching has demonstrated excellence in doctrinal, ethical and biblical foundations with strong pastoral sensitivities. Currently he has been engaged with the Department of Religious Studies MA in theology online blended learning program with the Archdiocese of Port of Spain, Trinidad, West Indies.
“The position is an important step for the Institute. The rapidly growing development with our online CEU courses, new online offerings in undergraduate courses and designing of seven new online certificate programs has required the extension of the Institute for Pastoral Initiative’s Team” stated Sr. Angela Ann Zukowski, Director. Currently there are over 150 people associated with the Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation (VLCFF) and related IPI programs. The coordination of these associates to enrich the quality of IPI’s service to the Church will be a significant dimension of Dr. Luzárraga’s position in conjunction with the IPI Team.
Dr. Luzárraga will focus on quality enhancement and creative innovation for all online courses and related IPI programs to address the intensifying needs of the Church in adult faith, lay ecclesial ministry and catechist formation.
IPI is in conversation with various national groups for networking into related areas of digital pastoral education innovation. Margaret Shufflebarger, Chair of the Search Committee says: “The Interdepartmental Search Committee and IPI Team believe that the sound theological perspective, deep faith, dynamic energy, outstanding organizational skills of Dr. Luzárraga stood out from among all the candidates.” “I am looking forward having Dr. Luzárraga as a member of our IPI Team. I believe he will both compliment and enrich our team’s expertise for advancing to new levels of national and international recognition and service to the Church”, stated Sr. Zukowski.
