Timothy Golden will join the Walla Walla University Department of History and Philosophy in August, bringing enrichment and possibility to the current philosophy program and a future political science program.
“We had a surprising number of highly qualified candidates for this position,” said Gregory Dodds, chair of the history and philosophy department. “Golden turned out to be the perfect fit.”
Golden brings a wealth of experience to the position. Prior to joining the WWU faculty, he was associate professor of philosophy and director of the Frederick Douglass Institute at West Chester University of Pennsylvania. His areas of specialization are 19th and 20th century continental philosophy, African American philosophy/critical race theory, and philosophy of religion/philosophical theology.
He completed his undergraduate work at West Chester University of Pennsylvania, studying criminal justice with a double minor in political science and philosophy. He received a juris doctor degree from Texas Southern University and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at University of Memphis.
“I saw an opportunity developing that is rare among Seventh-day Adventist higher education; that is, a strong political science program. Our institutions have strayed away from it, but strong philosophy and political science programs will hopefully lead to the development of a prelaw program. I wanted to be a part of that,” said Golden.
Golden was also drawn to Walla Walla for reasons beyond the academic possibilities. He said, “There was something spiritual about it. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but it was instinctual. Throughout my on-campus interview, everything within me said yes.”
Golden said, “It will be an enormous transition.” He currently lives outside of Philadelphia and has spent his entire life calling a city his home. Having never lived on the West Coast, coming to Walla Walla will be an admitted change of pace, but Golden looks forward to the opportunities at WWU.
“My favorite hobby is acting,” said Golden. He plans to join the WWU drama program to continue his participation in theater, which he described as his favorite way to worship a creative God.
Posted July 21, 2015
