Mindy Makant

• Th.D., Theology and Ethics, Duke University Divinity School
• M.A., Theology, Ohio Dominican University
• M.Ed., Education, University of West Georgia
• B.A., Mercer University

The Rev. Dr. Mindy Makant is professor of religious studies and director of the Youth and Family Ministry program at Lenoir-Rhyne. She previously held the roles of director of the Living Well Center for Vocation and Purpose and dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. She is the 2021 Roediger Distinguished Service Professorship recipient, designated annually by the president in recognition of distinguished service to the university, profession and community.

She is the author of two books: "The Practice of Story: Suffering and the Possibilities of Redemption" and "Holy Mischief: In Honor of Women in Ministry." Her research interests include pastoral care, justice, the relationship between church and state and the role of the imagination in the Christian life.

Makant is also an ordained deacon in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and certified spiritual director. She has served on the task force and was a co-author of the ELCA's Social Statement "Faith and Civic Life: Seeking the Wellbeing of All." She chairs the North Carolina Synod’s Task Force responsible for the Synod’s relationship with its companion church in Costa Rica.

In 2019, Makant received the Lenoir-Rhyne Faculty Scholar Award, which is presented to the faculty member who has made the greatest contribution to his/her discipline during the academic year.