Growing up, professor Robert Gnuse had a fascination with ancient history that eventually led him to the Bible, specifically the Old Testament. This special interest, coupled with the realization that not all teachers are good, led Gnuse to be an educator.
Gnuse, who has been a religious studies professor at Loyola since 1980, believes teaching is an act of service, which he has dedicated the last four decades of his life to.
Before his career in higher education, he spent 12 years in pre-ministerial school, before becoming an ordained minister in the Lutheran Church. In 1978, he received his Ph.D. in the Old Testament from Vanderbilt University.
Gnuse, who still preaches on Sundays, recognizes the importance of acknowledging historical settings and context when trying to interpret the Bible.
In his classroom, he focuses on how the Bible applies to modern issues, such as homosexuality, women’s rights, and slavery, he said.
Gnuse says it’s important to meet students where they have needs, both academically and emotionally.
At this year’s faculty convocation, Gnuse became the recipient of the 2024 Dux Academicus award, which is given to outstanding members of faculty.
The award has been granted at Loyola for 46 consecutive years. The award, which is submitted and voted on by a committee of faculty members and department heads, highlights excellence in teaching, service, and scholarship.
The Dux is given to a member of faculty who exemplifies the philosophies of Loyola in teaching and engaging with students.
In his 44 years at Loyola, Gnuse has served on nearly all department committees, including 4 terms as a faculty senator and 9 years as chair of the religious studies department.
Gnuse said receiving the award was “nice but unexpected.”
In his acceptance speech, Gnuse addresses his fellow faculty members. “You all deserve this award.”
“This award belongs to all of you: dedicated, determined, and you are still here teaching and serving.”
Robert Thompson • Feb 8, 2024 at 12:23 pm
Congratulations! You deserve this. You’ve come a long way since our days in Winston Salem! I remember when we went to church and you witnessed your first baptism by immersion. Keep up the good work!